Merry Christmas to Me!

The financing went through. We were a one-car family for 1 1/2 days. It was awful. I'm so sorry to any of you who have had to do that. This afternoon we went and signed the papers and I drove home in my amazing new minivan! I love it! And so do the kids.

For those of you who have left me comments asking for my car buying tips. . .

First of all, I am no expert, but here's what we did this time to find a good deal. I looked for a couple weeks at the local classifieds to see what the general prices were and which ones looked like good deals. This one was actually found on the classifieds.

Secondly, we bought from a small dealer. I loved this! We saved almost $1000 in fees compared to buying at the big dealership. It was a little bit more of a hassle since we had to do all the loan stuff ourselves, but it wasn't that hard. I think that small dealers also generally have the best prices since they have lower overheads.

After we had test driven and narrowed it down to 2 cars we got those dealers' best prices then called around and went to other dealerships to see if they could match/beat those best prices. If they say there's no way they can beat it then you can be fairly confident you are getting a good deal.

Last time we bought a car we got GAP insurance. This pays for the difference between what your car is worth and what you owe on it if it gets stolen or totaled. At the dealership we paid $700 for this insurance. We found out this time around that we could buy GAP insurance from our credit union for only $245. The point is, ask what each charge is above the purchase price and see if it's optional or negotiable.

Finally, I think what made this the best car buying experience was knowing that we didn't HAVE to buy a car. We could walk away. Don't go in planning to buy (even if you sorta are). Plan on at least sleeping on it. The seller wants you to buy it and whatever deal you were offered on Friday will still be there on Saturday.

If you are in the market for a minivan, I am really loving the Toyota. I have read only good things. Sure every seat can't fold flat, but there's no shortage of storage (say that 5 times fast), it's the most reliable minivan, and it drives so incredibly smoothly and quietly. I didn't have to even adjust the radio on/off the freeway. Anyway, hope this helps. Go minivans!