I've been looking to buy a used Focus, but now I am thinking I might just grab an "ad unit" type "stripped" new Focus instead.

I know exactly what I want, a 2006 Focus ZX3 SE with the only option change adding the color molding ($60 option).

I normally approach buying new cars by simply calling the dealers and getting quotes and pitting them against eachother, but I usually buy loaded vehicle...not stripped models.

any advice on how to approach this efficiently in regards to time and effort? any websites to get quotes etc?

Trying to get the car (MSRP $15,265~) for $10,500~ otd including factory $2,500, $500 finance, and $500 student rebates.

Thanks!

 

Edmunds is your friend. Finding a Focus at invoice can't be that difficult.

 

I think that will be hard to find. Invoice munus $3500 would be about $11k, plus TTL. I'd send an email to 5 dealers asking for their best price. Mention you're ready to buy this week.

 

Got a price of $12,191 on http://www.carsdirect.com using La Mesa's zip code. This includes the $2,500 rebate, but not the others. (includes dest, but not tax, so that would be a bit more than your OTD desire) Use that as a bargaining chip with your local dealer...as this is an actual selling price that you should be able to get right now and not theoretical based on surveys like Edmunds.

 

most dealerships salespeople have quota's. The best time to buy a car is the last day of the month. I bought a Used vehicle in February. The sticker was 19,995. I walked out the door after taxes, title, etc.. at $16,175.00.

the sales ladyy said I'm lucky I came today as tomorrow (1st of march) I wouldn't have gotten such a deal.