Tips on Buying Cars: buying an 07 in May or Aug (when 09) comes out, azera, lease ends

Question
QUESTION: I am looking at buy a Hyundai.  I don't mind getting an 07 and currently 08s are out.  what price should I expect and should I wait until 09 comes out.  How do I negotiate a good deal?

ANSWER: Hi Kathy,

Let me start by asking what Hyundai were you considering? the prices vary alot between the models...

as for negotiating... you can give this a read:

Http://thestealership.com/newcarguide1.html

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I would also like to suggest considering a lightly used vehicle rather than a new... (although sometimes getting a leftover model from 07 or 08 when the new models come out isnt a bad idea) - but the first 10k or so miles are the most expensive miles on a car.. and you can save a bundle by letting someone else pay for those miles.. Especially since Hyundai's have a very bad resale value and will depreciate very quickly...

Get back to me with what model - and what type of vehicle in general you are looking for - also what are you using the car for? sometimes salesmen will try to get you to buy more than you need.. be careful of that...

Thank you,
Robert L.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was looking at a Santa Fe for the extra room in back and 3rd row seat if needed.  I also looked at the sonata and azera, but there are no extra seats.  Someone recommended the Rav4 which has the same options.  I am not in a rush, but need a car by September when my current lease ends.  I am open to buying a used car.  What do I need to look for in that case?

Answer
The Santa Fe isn't a bad car - You can look at a lightly used Rav4 or even 4Runner - which would probably be cheaper and those models will hold Resale much better than your santa Fe.. I really like the CRV and Pilots as well. Buying a lightly used would be just like buying new - only - you have to get in inspected by a mechanic - and run a history check to make sure it hasn't been wrecked...

http://thestealership.com/usedcarguide1.html

That guide should help with that...

You can always consider any model minivan - as they have more room and are generally cheaper than the SUV's... The honda/toyota vans come highly recommended... insurance will probably be cheaper with a van as well.

Your best bet is to go to actual dealerships - look at their used cars (they should have plenty of lightly used models) - you will notice a lot of them are practically new.. if you find one that strikes your fancy - research it (or ask me) - generally you will find a better deal buying from a private seller - but the dealers will be the easiest to find a good variety of models to look at - once you know the models you like - you can search for one for sale privately...