Tips for selling a car
Selling a car can be a simple task if you start out prepared. If you follow a few basic steps and use some common sense, most problems can be averted. The first thing you need to do is establish the market value. This will vary from region to region, but by searching the local newspapers and automotive websites, you can get an idea of how much to ask for your car. Of course you need to determine where in the price range your car lies. Remember that car dealers buy at wholesale prices and sell at retail. You price should probably be less than a dealer. Be realistic or you may have that car sitting in your driveway for quite a while if you attach too much sentimental value to it. Generally you would expect that the cars at the top of the price range to be in very good condition, and the ones at the lower end to be “needs some TLC.”
First impressions really count here! If your car needs some little things fixed, this is a good time. It pays to have the vehicles lights and wipers working when the potential buyer hits the switch. If your ad says that it just needs a minor tune-up, then do it now! It makes no sense to lose a sale because of a basic maintenance item that is needed. The buyer will be much more assured that you “just had the car serviced”. A new paint job may be out of the question, but how about a fresh wax job! Be sure the fluids under the hood are topped up. Dig out all the service and repair records for the car and have them ready to show the buyer. Consider a CARFAX report for your car. This provides the buyer with information about the car’s past. This can give the prospective buyer peace of mind that you have nothing to hide. If you live in a region that requires emission testing, be sure that the vehicle’s testing is up to date. It will not only make the insuring for the new owner easier, but also assures them that the car will be in good running condition.
Selling a vehicle with no valid insurance is a sure way to delay the sale or end up selling your car for less. Most buyers expect to be able to take the car for a run before putting down their money.
Wash the car for gosh sakes! Everybody feels better driving a clean car! Even if you don’t think your car is deserving of a bath considering the price you’re asking for it, you’re wrong. Even a “beater” can sell quickly if it’s been washed and vacuumed. Clean windows and maybe a little “car deodorant” will make the test drive more pleasant. If you are expecting top dollar for your car, consider getting it detailed. The 100 or so dollars that you spend will be returned to you in a higher selling price and a quicker sale. Remember to allow a bit of “haggling” room, it’s expected.
Where should you advertise your car? You should make use of all the available resources in your region. If you are selling a classic or hotrod or an exotic, your buyer may be willing to travel across the country, but most of us rely on the locals to purchase our vehicles from. Local community newspapers can offer some action, and the city newspapers can offer more action, but in general, newspapers can’t compete with the internet. The cost of placing an ad in a paper or printed publication is high compared to most auto websites, but a combination of a popular local printed magazine focused on the automotive market and an automotive website is a good plan. Surveys show that most buyers will spend considerable time on the internet before they even look at the first car. Automotive websites that offer a target market are the most effective. Canada Car Finders offers great value for both the buyer and the seller, and it's free. Don’t forget to let friends and family know that you have a car for sale.
Using your car for a trade-in can make sense if your car is older and you are considering a high end purchase from a dealer. If your car is in good condition and still has lots of life, a private sale could get you more money.
Expect that the buyer may want to take the car to a mechanic; this is a reasonable request. If you are unsure about the buyer, go along with them on the test drive or to the shop they are taking it too. If you are uncomfortable dealing with strangers, have a friend or family member with you. Watching a stranger drive off in your car can be very unsettling. If you have any doubts about the person’s character, go along with them. Have to proper papers required to transfer ownership to the new buyer. Check with your local insurance agents as to what is needed.
Check out the Better Business Bureau for more tips on dealing with buyers.
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