Edmond's & KBB VS. Your NOGGIN

                             Who Do You Really Trust???? 

Okay so it's has been a few years since I have traded in a vehicle, but I know this topic is a common complaint among car shoppers.  You are ready to purchase a new or used car and have done all your homework.  Edmond's and Kelly Blue Book websites have been bookmarked on your computer and you have worn them out.  

You have found a car you are interested in and you make the trip to the car lot.  Now comes the fun part!  Talking prices......  This is where it gets tricky.  You think you know the price that this car you want should be and/or the price you think you can get for your car.  However, when the salesman shoots you back his best price it's not the same.  What gives?????

Honestly, there are a couple of things going on that the consumer does not consider (and this does not involve the car lot making a HUGE profit).  First of all car dealers are not using Kelly Blue Book or Edmond's for car pricing.  They are using Black Book Pricing and NADA and current auctions to determine prices.  These are updated more frequently and are more reliable to the dealer. 

So where do you look for valid information on how much your car is worth or what a reasonable price is for the vehicle you want to purchase?  My advice would be to look on Craigslist.  This will give you a good idea of what current cars or selling for.  The newspaper is still a valid venue as well.  See what a particular car is selling for.  It might surprise you.  Keep in mind these are asking prices and there just might be room for negotiation.