: She pulled a Vehicle History Report for a used SUV she liked, checking for accidents, title issues, and service records. Phase 2: The Negotiation
: She saved up a 20% down payment to avoid rapid depreciation and secure better loan terms ( Preston Ford of Keller ).
: She refused to discuss her trade-in value until the purchase price of the new car was locked in, keeping the math clean and transparent. Phase 3: Sealing the Deal
: Never feel obligated to sign the same day you visit.
: Before driving away, ensure the seller records the correct odometer reading and sale price on the title ( Maryland MVA ).
Maya sat at her kitchen table, a mountain of printouts from Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports spread before her. Her old sedan was wheezing, and she was determined not to let a dealership's high-pressure tactics drive her into a bad deal. She was going to "buy it right." Phase 1: The Invisible Prep