Since we do not buy new cars, we are left with other options. Usually, I deal with a used car lot. I know the routine. Their prices are high so I offer a price that is low and we meet somewhere in the middle. This year I decided to try something a little different so I went shopping on Craigslist.
I found a car that I liked and it was reasonably priced. I did my homework, checked the car out on Kelly Blue Book and I made an appointment to look at the car. I had a firm price in mind and I was not about to budge no matter what. When I arrived at the meeting place I discovered that the car was owned by an Iraqi war veteran with two small children. He was in a wheelchair with both legs missing from an IED. The firm price I had in mind immediately dissipated.
We bought the car and now it was my turn to sell our old car (see picture) on Craigslist. Again, I did my research and posted the car with what I considered a fair price. It wasn't long until a prospective buyer called and wanted to see the car. Again, with my game face on and a firm price in mind I set out to meet this person.
This person turned out to be a single, struggling Mom about the age of my own daughters. She had physical and emotional disabilities. At one point during the two day negotiation ordeal she sat in the car with a tear rolling down her cheek and said, "I really want this car but I don't quite have the money.
Long story short, after knocking $1600. off the asking price she was able to purchase the vehicle. It was an exhausting ordeal and I am emotionally drained.
I think I will stick to preaching.
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