Just what is an automotive broker? He or she basically serves as a ‘buyer’s agent,’ helping to arrange every part of the vehicle transaction, and watching out for the best interests of the client.

The three major parts of this are the finding and securing of the appropriate new or used car, truck, or SUV; shopping any trade-in to maximize its value; and arranging the finance or lease package.

If someone has enough time, they can do much of this for themselves. However, the bottom line is that dealers negotiate hundreds of deals per month, and normal folk do it on average every three to four years.

A professional broker does enough volume per month to negotiate discounts through the fleet departments of new car franchises, and can make sure the savings are great enough to cover their fee and still be a great deal for their client. And, since they work in the business on a daily basis, they are often intuitively aware of changes in the market, and how they can affect people. Not just at purchase, but when it’s time for to trade in as well.

Another advantage to using a broker is the comfort and certainty that come of a long-term relationship. Many auto brokers have been in business for five, ten, or twenty years; they often work with generations of the same family. That means no wondering if you’ll pull a joker out of the deck the next time you go into a dealer, and find that the salesperson you liked has moved on.

Finally, because a broker isn’t employed by a specific manufacturer (yet can obtain most any type of car or truck) their first interest is in what vehicle is most appropriate for their client. Top auto brokers are good enough to work on exclusively on a repeat and referral basis.

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