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Marq,
Don't feel bad about not 'being able' to negotiate. It is like anything else, if you don't do it very much you don't get a chance to 'get good' at it.
I could go on and on and tell you some great stories but this really is your first rodeo. The problem is, buying a car and especially a new car is something that the average person does every three or four years. Anything else we do once every three years we are not very good at either.
My advice, also given earlier, is to use Consumer Reports. Spend the $12. and get the buying guide for your specific model. Read the buying tips, and then re-read them. Remember, you are in control. Basically, you will never get the best deal unless you walk away at least once. Even if it is just to clear your head. The buying tips in CR are very good. I have used them many times. Also, go shop the lots at night when the dealerships are closed and it is cool. You can look at all the cars with no pressure and if nothing else, get comfortable with walking around the car lot. It can be overwhelming. Do not, repeat do not, try to 'out negotiate' the salesman or the dealer. A good salesman sells a car a day and a good new car dealership sells 10 cars a day. They are good at what they do just as you are good at your job. Think about how you could take advantage of a first time customer at your job. Take the whole process at your own pace. There will always be tomorrow. Also, expect to get screwed on your trade in. Especially if you plan to trade in a 2001 Ford at the Honda new car dealership. If the dealer offers you a great trade-in price, you are paying way too much for the new car.
That's enough. Do the CR thing. Good Luck.
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I am just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe...
"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Thoreau
"Nothing great was ever accomplished without enthusiasm" - Emerson
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