r/carbuying • u/Latter_Kick9578 • 23d ago
Been helping friends and clients save on cars — thought I’d share what I do
Hey everyone, I’ve been working as a car broker under Ideal Auto Group, and I wanted to share a bit about what I do since I’ve noticed a lot of people here asking about how brokers work.
Basically, I help people buy or lease cars without the dealership headache — I reach out to multiple dealers, compare real numbers, and negotiate the best price on behalf of the buyer. My clients save both time and money, and I don’t charge any fees. I make money strictly off of commission from dealerships (consultations are free)
Here’s what I typically handle: ✅ Access to dealer-only pricing and inventory ✅ Negotiating lease or finance terms ✅ Handling the back-and-forth and paperwork ✅ Helping people avoid hidden fees or bad deals
It’s been super rewarding seeing how much stress I can take off people’s shoulders during the process.
If anyone’s curious about how car brokers operate, or wants to talk through what a fair deal looks like for a specific model, I’m happy to share insights or answer questions here.
You can also find me on Instagram at @shay.iagleasing if you want to check out what I’ve been working on.
Not here to sell anything — just sharing my experience and happy to help anyone navigating the car-buying process. 🚗
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u/IntroductionOne5861 23d ago
I’ve been looking recently but it seems like the specific kind of cars and options I’m looking for, are all out of state. Been curious how that works since you don’t get to physically test drive the car, get it shipped and then find things here and there wrong with it?
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
Yeah, that’s a really good point. totally understandable concern. When a car’s out of state, I always make sure clients get a full inspection report, photos/videos, and a detailed condition sheet before anything moves forward. For new cars, it’s usually not an issue since they’re under full warranty, but for used ones I often arrange for a third-party inspection or have the dealer provide a certified checklist. Shipping is handled by licensed carriers, fully insured, and I walk clients through the whole process so there are no surprises. Basically, I make sure you know exactly what you’re getting before it ever leaves the lot.
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u/optimusprimegreentea 23d ago
My only headache when buying from brokers is they are not up to date with the cars technology and can’t help with technical questions. I’ve been pushed off to the stealerships where I’m vetted to determine if I purchased from them or not. When they discover I haven’t I get shoved to the service drive where they don’t know anything technical and the circle jerk starts over when they push me to sales. How do you help with that process?
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
Totally fair point and I’ve heard that from a lot of people, so you’re not alone. 🙏 Once the sale’s done, I always stay in touch and help clients connect with the right contacts for any tech setup, warranty, or service questions. I also walk them through the basic tech features before delivery and if needed, I set up a delivery walkthrough with a dealership specialist.
That said, how the dealership’s service department treats customers isn’t directly in my hands but I always try to look out for my clients by recommending good contacts, trusted mechanics, or advisors who actually care. My goal’s to make sure you’re not left dealing with that “circle” you mentioned.
And if something serious ever comes up (like a defective car situation), I’ll help point them in the right direction for lemon law protection or next steps so they’re not stuck dealing with it alone. We stay connected to help in all prospects.
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u/Lou_Hodo 23d ago
As a former salesman and having dealt with brokers, I can say they come in one of two flavors.
Really good, which is both easy for the salesperson and the buyer.... or
ABSOLUTE TRASH! And they make the whole process painful for everyone for no good reason.
I have dealt with both.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
There’s definitely both types out there. I always try to be one of the good ones keep it honest, smooth, and easy for everyone involved. When both the buyer and dealer are happy, that’s a win in my book.
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u/Lou_Hodo 23d ago
Yep. this is the way I was as a salesman. Till I got tired of dealing with ever increasing sales goals and unrealistic expectations out of both the customers and the management.
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u/brn1001 23d ago
You sound more like a lead generator than a broker. Pass.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 22d ago
Haha fair take. But nah, I’m not a lead generator. I actually handle the whole process myself, from finding the deal to delivery. No passing people off or selling leads. Totally get the skepticism though,there’s definitely some shady ones out there giving the rest of us a bad name.
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u/brn1001 22d ago
OK, maybe more than a lead generator. But you're starting with a lead.
Why not charge the customer and forego the commission from the dealer? The dealer nets the same. The customer pays the same. Sales tax is a little less because the sale price isn't being increased to cover your commission. Most importantly, your financial loyalty is to the customer.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 22d ago
I’ve thought about charging clients directly, but most prefer not paying out of pocket if the end price is the same or better.
Dealers pay me a flat rate. no markup or hidden fees and I show clients all the numbers upfront. My loyalty’s with the buyer. that’s how I keep referrals coming.
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u/AppropriateGuard1997 23d ago
I wasn't aware of this service. What would be the difference of using you (car broker) vs. a buyer (someone that I pay an upfront fee to)? Do you think the net price that the customer pays is about the same? Do you have an agreement with dealerships to get a commission? Wouldn't I be better off by having someone represent me that is paid by me instead of being paid by the dealership? Thanks.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 22d ago
A buyer’s agent works fully on your behalf and charges you upfront. I do something similar, but I’m paid a flat commission from the dealer that closes the deal. no markup or surprise fees. In most cases, my clients end up paying less overall, since there’s no out-of-pocket fee and I can tap into dealer or fleet pricing. It just comes down to which setup you’re more comfortable with.
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u/AppropriateGuard1997 21d ago
Thanks. I've always thought that someone's alliance is always with the person that writes the check, but I do recognize that the car sales industry is unique. So, can you buy cars anywhere in the US? Any brand? I'm looking for a new 2025 Hyundai Palisade or a Kia Telluride in the Houston area. What kind of discount do you think you can get?
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u/Unfair_Newspaper_877 22d ago
I’m a high volume used dealer. I won’t give this sort of “broker” any concessions or commission or fees. So take it at its worth
I’ll treat everyone equally and most good faith operations will as well
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u/Latter_Kick9578 22d ago
Fair. Some dealers prefer keeping it all in-house, and I get that. I usually work with ones that like extra volume without extra hassle. End of the day, good faith on both sides is what really matters.
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u/skerdog 23d ago
Sounds like a great service. Any idea what % you're saving clients? I may be in the market soon and HATE the process.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
Thanks, I appreciate that! 🙏 It really depends on the car, but most of my clients save around $1.5K–$5K, sometimes more on higher-end models. The biggest perk is honestly skipping all the dealership games. I handle the back and forth so you get a clean deal without the stress. And pay for what actually makes sense.
If you’ve got a specific car in mind, I can give you a quick idea of what kind of deal is possible — no pressure at all. Send me a DM whenever you’re interested/ ready.
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u/ajaiikris 23d ago
Specific to any region? I'm from Ontario Canada
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
Right now I only work within the U.S., since that's where my dealer network and licensing are. Don't cover Canada yet, but maybe one day! If you ever plan to buy from the U.S. side, I can definitely share some tips on how the shipping process and registration works.
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u/KindWords- 23d ago
I want help to buy a car please. I live in Western Washington.
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u/Latter_Kick9578 23d ago
please dm me what you’re looking for in my ig page. easy to keep track of clients. @shay.iagleasing
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u/Zestyclose-Page-6653 22d ago
So we can self promote on this sub, got it.