re: Rules of engagement buying a new vehicle

1) trade in - get an offer from CarMax to have in hand at the dealership. That sets your minimum trade in value. They’ll try to get you to settle for less otherwise. Also have the KBB to negotiate with
2) haggling - don’t give them info. Info is power. Lure them in, make them think you’re a scrub to be taken advantage of. This will get them invested in the process, and get you better numbers when it turns out you’re intelligent
3) ask for more, and settle for the amount you really wanted. The “art of the deal” - compromise leaves everyone feeling good