Here is a few tips I recently used when buying my used SUV.
#1: First things first, getting the cash...everyone has different circumstances and while keeping that in mind, some may be very strapped or does not have the ability to save cash, therefore getting out of debt or working more may be needed, but if you are in a good position to start saving, there is a rule that should be followed, only spend 1/4 of your possible wages for the year on a car, that's a pretty good rule.
#2: Do research, lots of it. Consider what type of ride you want or need within your budget. And make sure to hone in on what model, type and options as well, check the prices in your area for that select item and check NADA values on them cars in good condition, most used cars will fall in that cat. tho the sales rep's won't say that. They may pull out excellent condition values on paperwork, don't agree that its excellent ever. There is always something to complain about or point out.
#3: Bring a backup "bad guy" friend, and make him point out things that aren't perfect, like scratches etc. during small talk. Also wear plain clothes nothing too fancy, that way newer or more honest salesman may come up to you more relaxed. Be very polite. Talk about there volume of cars in the lot. "Wow you have alot of cars here!" If the cars are jammed in there like sardines, talk about how hard it must have been to park them there. lol
#4: Get the salesman to open the hood and start her up, and give him a working go at telling ya about the ride, politely bring up options or things not to your liking, use Mileage as a weapon. Tires being worn, etc. let him feel he's doing his job. And don't bring up that your ready to buy today, don't show your to eager. And also if you gonna trade in, It may be better if possible to post it and sale it separate for the price you want.
#5: Look at the details, take a close slow look at everything, like the windows,(windshield damage), underpinnings, rims, exhaust, color of oil, check all the lights, and digital items. Look at the dash lights closely for like tire pressure lights, etc. point out if any aren't working. You could ask for a car fax,
but this may be to your disadvantage, proving good stuff you should find out on your own. If the car or truck is listed sometimes they give the VIN for your personal use on the net. Get it on your own. Or don't worry about it, if you know its a local trade in.
#6: Don't let him get you to make the first price point, make sure to ask the question after talking a while, "So, what would you take right now for the car?" Right off the bat, if he just says the sticker price, understand, that he doesn't know you have cash, don't tell him, if they finance, get approved by them, etc. but don't use it, if you must, use a bank and get pre-approved for real there, they will call to see if it true, don't lie about it. Most salesman are just trying to make a living. Also sometimes if the lot is big enough they have there own shop, so asking for small fixes won't largely hurt the deal. Anyway,
At that point tell him the problems you see and why you think it should be a bit lower, then ask, something like "Considering the mileage and the fact its (years) old, do think you can come a bit lower?" At this point stay silent and wait for an answer, keep walking around the car and stopping here in there, looking closely.
#7: Name your low point price you will pay out-right, have your low point cash in a roll with a rubber band, but don't pull it out yet, wait for an answer, if he says "No." Then, you know what he just can't do, at this point many things could happen, just don't get mean or pissed, relax. After trying to get him down from his low, he may leave you to "go talk to the manager." If possible try to talk with a manager, they don't work on commission normally. Them guys have the authority to take a lower price. If your left in a cubical or room, while they go to the manager, don't stay in the room, go to the restroom, or back to your car, or something. This shows they aren't able to control you, and may give you an edge.
#8: Leaving the lot...this doesn't always work, after you find the price they won't go under that you really must have, politely ask are you sure there's nothing more you can take off the top, give them your Final amount, and pull out cash, yes in your roll there is only your low point, but your budget extra is in your wallet make your final offer about 300 or so below your budget extra hidden away, etc. and act like it is the amount you have in mind. Then again stay silent, if they still can't help you, thank them for there time and give them your phone number and get that salesman's card then politely say thank you for you time, and sorry for possibly wasting it. Leave. you can tell them your heading to another dealer to check out something else too.
After you leave, "call" back if you liked the ride and offer the rest of the money thru a text saying someone helped you with the extra cost, with a pleasant message attached saying thanks again for your time. See if they byte. If they do, don't worry that's like having it in writing. If they don't your stuck for the long haul, call at the end of the month or week or 2 later. If that works.... Head on back and give them the cash when they ask how are you paying today.
Enjoy your new ride!
There is alot of other tips online at your fingertips so do some research on it before heading out for the big purchase!
Here's the ride I got, and good luck to you.
2009 Nissan Murano SL, 130,000 miles, price was 7,500 +199 processing fees and mabe more for warranties etc.
Price I spent 6600 including processing, As is...no other extras.
P.S.
Look out for Deer.