I am a horrible haggler. I just decide what price I can afford, then tell the owner. "I have $1200 for that machine. Is that good?" He said yes, and I took it :)
I think I am in the minority though. I don't think I *must* have a local dealer. I buy online, at the cheapest price. If I need help, there are enough forums and yahoo groups to get help. And even getting tutored at $50/hour, I can get a LOT of help for the difference in prices.
Good luck. It is a wonderful machine.
Pat