re: Buying a new car

My previous experiences were the exact opposite. I usually deal with high volume dealers and have a much better experience with them. Their quantity over quality sales approach gives me the best deal. I am not interested in becoming the sales guys friend. I am however interested in getting the best deal.

The last truck I bought I got from a small town dealership. Even with a relative working at the dealership (only reason I went) it was the worst car buying experience I've had. My next truck will be bought in Texas. You do the entire deal over the phone, fly there, they pick you up and drive you to the dealership, sign papers, and leave. A total of an hour in the dealership and you save thousands over buying in BR.

To the OP, check out eBay. I don't suggest buying from there but it gives you a good idea on what new and used cars go for. Use this and the information you have to decide what you believe to be a good and fair price.
Right now dealerships are offering good incentives to finiance through them. I usually do this and then pay off the truck a few months later (when I can, I couldn't with my last truck). I still get the incentives and save by not having to pay interest.