So true, was really surprised as I thought I got a very fair deal just a few weeks ago from this dealer.
Any stealership sales-bot who is serious will shoot you an estimate on your trade by sms or email. I took a few pics after my seller agreed in principle. They said “we’ll give you xxxxx for the car, assuming it’s as you described.” Pics were accurate, to what I described- very good condition, and their offer was pretty close to the resale market so I felt pretty good about the deal in that aspect.
I did all my negotiating, trade arrangement, by sms. put $$ down by phone/CC. Stealership texted me when the truck arrived and was ready for me when I scheduled the buy. I didn’t even set foot in the place until I was there to buy it.
If they’re not willing to solidify the numbers before you come in, they’re going to try and rook you.