Is ordering really necessary?

No reason at all. If a dealer has what you want, go pick it up! Most of the orders are for vehicles that aren't available in a particular region. So it requires an order.

 

We bought our 2010 III with navigation and remote start off the lot at Hamer Toyota in San Fernando. Doug is our salesman. He is great to work with. You can check out their stock at Hamertoyota.com.

 

Since you are in So Cal, it may not be an issue.

I have searched dealers inventory in my area and they have the car I want listed, but when you call them, it is already sold.

A friend of ours got one today without ordering. He was using the CARS program so he took what he could get instead of getting a package he may have wanted or a different color. He was afraid to wait and miss out on the deal.

We're specific about the color and package, so we are going to have to wait a bit.

 

After a lame experience with Toyota of Santa Monica (I left and took my deposit with me), I heard a friend mention she just bought a Prius. I asked her what she did and she gave me the name of an incredible car broker. Needless to say my experience was incredible with Bob. My car was even delivered to my home and I just signed my paperwork and was done in about 5 minutes.

The car I bought was a '10 Prius IV with Solar Roof, navigation, and remote AC. I only wanted Winter Gray with Misty Gray interior.

I would have bought my car off a dealers lot if I could have found one, but the car I was looking for was so specific. Bob got me the exact car while it was coming into port and the fee for his service was extremely reasonable, IMHO.

Good luck with your purchase!