First and foremost, do not step foot into a retail store (or anywhere that has commissioned sales people) without first knowing what you are after. Major purchases are a big deal for most. I really like when a customer walks in without a reservation.
This person is not going to leave the rental lot without paying double what the actual vehicle costs. Usually i will also get this person to buy the coverage on the rental. That means I stand to make at least $200 off this person for a three to four day rental. This money-making opportunity is based off a lack of customer knowledge. They don't know what the car actually costs, and we are allowed to make our own prices. Again, this process of making money and putting the customer at a loss is because I NEED to make money or it's my job. When a customer says that they looked up the prices online and, "That seems higher than it should be." I tell them, "well, that is our online pricing and based on the availability this is the lowest I can offer the vehicle." Now, sometimes this works and the person will take my price and make me a little money. The smart customer however will leave, book the car online and come back with a smile on their face because they didn't get boned.
Browsing is a good idea, but do not ever just stroll into a store and not expect to get rolled by a salesperson. We love the casual customer. We watch what you drive and how you dress and can immediately tell if we are going to make a fat commission check off you.
You may be thinking to yourself... no shit, but I myself have fallen victim to this problem. The problem of buying something without fully knowing all the product details. Every salesperson is going to tell you that all of the products he/she sells are a good buy. Browse the store and pick out a few models that you like, look up consumer reports on the product. You could be surprised. The point of this is do your research! it can stop most of us salespeople from trying to rip you off. However we will do our best to find a way.
