When you are looking to purchase a new car, you have a lot of choices as to where to buy. Too many, some people might say! Your next car could come from a large, multi-brand dealership, a smaller single-brand dealership or even a local used-car dealer. Thankfully, you also have the internet to help you decide which of these sales venues offers you the best package, not only in price but long term support. In order to help you decide which local auto retailer you wish to patronize, here are a few things to consider:
1) Dealership Size – If you chose a large dealership, you will generally get a seasoned team of automotive professionals, everyone from sales and financing to service. Remember the sales process is only the first step. Of course, you want a great deal on your new car, but you also want long term support too.
2) Dealership Inventory – Take a look at the dealer’s inventory. If it is large, this can be a great advantage, especially if you’d like to get just the right car and get it quickly. Typically, you can judge the size of a dealer’s inventory, and examine specific cars they have, right on the web.
3) Reputation – It shouldn’t be a big surprise that some dealerships are better than others. You, of course, want a great dealership to purchase from and have a long term relationship with. You want a dealership with a good reputation! Here’s where the internet is invaluable. Go out and look at some reviews on Google, Yelp and other sites like Merchant Circle, and see what customers are saying. This will tell you volumes about what a dealership is like.
For example, the above image is an example or a review for an Augusta Georgia based dealership, who apparently has provided this customer some valuable, and respected service. Looking for reviews like this one on Merchant Circle are a great way to establish which dealerships tend to have more positive experiences versus negative.
You won’t regret doing your homework before you begin working with a dealer. As we mentioned before, some dealerships are far better than others, with this used car dealer coming highly recommended. Find out what the scoop is. There is another way to judge a dealership besides the internet also – ask friends. Word of mouth is very valuable. If you hear someone say they are a “loyal customer”, you found the right place to do business with.
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