Don’t Think! Just Buy!

I’m looking to buy a new car. I just want to get the bottom line price for comparison and get out.

I have some experience in sales; I understand some of the tricks and techniques, so I am quick to shut down any ploys.

Me: “Hi, I’m after a monthly cost for [Car Model] with [litre] engine, over three years, please. I’m just looking for prices today, not looking to make a sale.”

Salesman: “Okay, let me talk you through the options.”

Me: “The baseline model is fine for me, thanks.”

Salesman: *Taken aback* “Okay… Well, let’s talk protective coatings; the seats can be protected for as little as 9p a day.”

Me: “Sorry, but I just want the basic cost. If that’s affordable, we can talk about extras.”

Salesman: “Okay, so the paint protector covering—”

Me: “Again, sorry to interrupt, but I just want the basic price, no extras.”

Salesman: “What I’m going to do is put that in the quote, but as a separate line so you can see.”

Me: “That’s fine, thank you.”

Salesman: “I’ll just see if our finance team is available to go through the payment options for you.”

Me: “Again, no, thank you. I’m just looking at prices today.”

The salesman ignores me and starts looking around for the finance team.

Salesman: “It won’t take a moment; then you can ensure that you are cleared by a credit check.”

Me: “Again, I’m just looking for prices, if I can just have that printout.”

He reluctantly gave me the printout, and I thanked him and left. When I compared, this place was nearly 50% more expensive than anywhere else. No wonder they were so keen to get me to sign up and not think twice about it.