subject: Tips on selling a used car [print this page] If your old car is still in great condition, it could fetch a high price even in today's uncertain market. But if your used vehicle is a little worse for wear, it doesn't pay to deceive your prospective buyers - such dishonesty will likely deter them and can also harm your seller reputation, especially if you're trading on public websites.
Instead, you should go for the honest approach that you would appreciate from sellers yourself, focusing on your car's strengths and bringing it up to peak condition to make it a more attractive sale. Don't underestimate the value that a fresh coat of wax can have on your sale.
Before you even think about advertising your car, you should get a rough idea of its value by browsing trade websites and magazines and looking for other vehicles of similar age, make, model and condition. Remember this last detail in particular, as everything from your car's mileage to its service history can have a huge impact on your asking price.
Once you've decided on the value you want to set - as well as how low you're prepared to go - it's time to head to local convenience store or sign up to auction websites to place your listing. Sticking to your local area will probably be your best bet, as buyers are less likely to travel from further away unless the vehicle you're selling is particularly exotic or collectable. Make sure you read the listing policies of advertisers carefully, as some auction sites charge a percentage of your final sale price in addition to your initial listing fees.
With any luck, the phone calls and emails will start flooding in before long, and you'll need to have responses ready to the type of questions your buyers will ask. Your reason for selling the car is one many buyers are likely to be interested in first of all, and you should also be honest about any repairs your car has had, from car windscreen replacements to its last service. You should collect together all documentation you have relating to the car and get them photocopied, so buyers will be able to peruse them at their leisure.
When it's time for the physical inspection of your vehicle, it's your last chance to fix any minor glitches and make sure the car is spick and span, just like it would be in the showroom. If they make an offer you're happy with and you're ready to part company with your vehicle, make sure payment is received in a reliable form, such as cash, a cashier's cheque or a money order, and you'll have raised some vital funds towards the cost of your new car.
