Save-Money, Time after Time
Enhance Your Wealth Position

Save-money and enhance your wealth position ~ that is the name of the game. You've probably heard and know by now that "money saved is money earned" ... this is true. When it comes to saving money we shall explore the decision whether to purchase a new car or repair the old one. Consider this as one of those areas where you can save-money and truly position yourself to maximize your resources. Having more doesn't necessarily mean spending more. I encourage you to adopt a few fundamental principles that will help you save-money without compromising a comfortable lifestyle. The following money saving principles work time after time when you believe they can work for you.

Your car is probably one of the least understood opportunities to save money because it is oftentimes "strictly" categorized as a liability. While this may be generally true there are decisions that will help you save-money in the long term.

The question as to whether you should fix an existing car or buy a new one requires a few points of consideration.

Today's consumers go through cars like they do shoes ... once the car becomes dated and worn most people explore their option to get a new one. Just when the last payment is made it seems as though all of those nagging repairs surface at once. Economically it seems better to obtain a new car rather than to continue pouring money into an older one.

Statistics show that most people opt to purchase a new car to avoid those mounting repair bills. However, those who think long term have found that under certain circumstances "it's cheaper to keep'er". A few reasons to keep the "ole gal" are obvious (I'm still talking about the car)

- You already know what she needs ~ you kept her maintained well
- An older vehicle is less expensive to maintain
- An older vehicle is less likely to be stolen
- Parts for an older vehicle are likely to be less expensive

Here are a few reasons to let the "ole gal" go ...

- Poor mechanical condition due to lack of routine maintenance
- She's a gas guzzler and contributes a great deal to pollution
- Parts are harder to find
- It has safety flaws inherent to age

Should you decide to purchase a new car there are some rules to the game you should become familiar with. Remember, there's more to buying a car than agreeing on price.

The images from past experiences of going to a dealership cause many people to prefer a root canal over dealing with intimidating salespeople. Always remember the fact that since you are the consumer you should maintain control over the situation while negotiating a deal. Arm yourself with indifference. A well known secret in sales is ... "People buy on emotion and justify their purchase decision logically" ... as the consumer, you must remove the emotion from your buying experience by being willing to walk away if the deal doesn't make sense for your particular situation. Gathering as much information beforehand about the specific car you are interested in will help you stay on level terms with savvy salespeople. Also keep in mind that it is your prerogative to choose your salesperson rather than allowing him to choose you.

Remember, as the consumer you are in control. The best way to maintain your position of control is to ask questions. Another secret to sales is "the person who asks the most questions maintains control of the conversation". If you run out of questions specific to the purchase process ask questions about the salesperson directly. Ask her, for example, how long has she worked for the particular dealership, what are some of her interests outside of work, why she chose to work for this particular dealership ... the list goes on and on. If you're not asking these questions I assure you a good salesperson will be asking them of you.

You can create opportunities to save-money after learning how to capitalize on the timing of the sales game. Salespeople thrive on creating a context of confusion. They bombard you with questions and numbers to divert your attention from the simple issues. Be indecisive, don't fall in love with a particular vehicle or try to make a friend with a salesperson. Strategic negotiations is not about making friends, it's about getting what you want. The best time of the month to negotiate from a position of strength is at the end of the month when dealers close their books and want good sales figures ~ another good time to negotiate a favorable deal would be very late on a rainy Monday or late in the day when the sales staff is exhausted. Additionally, the best time of the year to get a good deal is shortly before Christmas when business tends to slow.

These are but a few ideas on how you might save-money time after time while capitalizing on your purchase decision. Put these ideas to work for you and when you see the benefit share them with family and friends. Internalize your learning ... study ~ practice ~ teach.

Save-Money, Enhance Your Wealth Position