Think that selling your car on your own is hard? Think again. Sure, there are a few things that you’ll have to consider first before selling your car, like the necessary repairs that need to be done and all sorts of paperwork. Luckily, once you know how the process of selling a car goes, nothing will stop you from selling your car yourself. If you want to do this with no hassle, this following guide will help you.
Start With the Paperwork
The word ‘paperwork’ often inspires dread in most people, because they can mix up important documents and end up using the wrong pieces of paper. This can also happen whenever you attempt to sell your car. So, make sure that you have the following items ready before you start selling your car: your car’s title, or what’s known as the pink slip, a vehicle history report, which potential buyers will want to see. This can answer many of their questions regarding the state of your car.
You can either order an AutoCheck or a Carfax report. Both of these reports will provide your buyers with the information they need. Also, make sure to check with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) for the necessary paperwork required to sell your car, as paperwork can be different according to the state you live in. If there’s still a loan on your car, be sure to contact your lender to know how you can arrange for a sale.
Know the Value of Your Car
When it comes to setting up a price for your car, you don’t want to go too high or drop it to a low-price range. Finding that average price is exactly why pricing can be a difficult task. To carry it out successfully, make sure to check your car’s value at websites like Kelley Blue Book to see other cars of the same model and how much they are sold at. If you check this website, you’ll find that there are people who can take you up on your offer with no further negotiations.
You’ll also find that there are some people who have succeeded in selling their car at its original price! In case that doesn’t happen for you, knowing the price market value of your car will help you set the grounds for negotiation. Make sure not to set your price above $1,000. For example, if your car is priced at $4,200 in the market, don’t sell at $5,100. Instead, $4,900 will bring you more buyers because, despite the minor difference, it will have a psychological impact on buyers which will encourage them to go for the car that’s priced at $4,900.
Prepare Your Car for Pictures
It goes without saying that your car needs to look in its best shape when you start taking pictures for your ad. If your car looks dirty in the pictures, most buyers, if not all, will immediately change their mind about buying your car and search for better deals. The first thing you need to do is to thoroughly clean your car inside and out.
Make sure to wipe and vacuum the interior of the car as well as emptying the trunk and vacuuming the empty space thoroughly. Make sure to clean the windows and wipe the upholstery carefully, especially if they’re of a light color. Don’t mess other small details like replacing the burnt-out fuses or lights. Finally, make sure to have a mechanic take a look at your car to determine what part of your car needs further maintenance.
Create Good Ads
If you haven’t done so already, you’ll need to work on your photography skills. Good pictures of your car will attract the right audience, especially if your car is already well-maintained and cleaned-up. The first thing a buyer will see is the picture of your car and this is what is really going to capture their interest. First impressions are important. For that reason, you need your pictures to be as clear and attractive to buyers as possible. Also, make sure that you provide the necessary information in your ad. The more information you provide, the more legitimate your ad will look like.
Preparing a car for sale surely is doable. So, make sure that you follow these tips for the best results. When it comes to choosing a buyer, choose them carefully. Be sure to meet that person first before you accept their money and have someone tag along with you. Just in case something is off. After everything is settled, you might want to start thinking of other options, like getting a new car.
