Selling a car sounds simple doesn't it? But there are some things you need to keep in mind, such as how to get the best price, the rules and regulations and negotiating. These tips may help you to sell your car quicker and for a higher price.
1. Clean the vehicle Really Well
Sounds obvious doesn't it, but many people just give their vehicle a quick once over. When I used to work at a Lancashire used cars dealer we always thought more of cars which came in to us in pristine condition. It is not just the fact that the car is clean and therefore less work for us. A really clean car is an indication of how well the vehicle has been looked after.
When we saw a car that had crumbs in the seats it was a red light that the person didn't care too much and there could be stains or hidden problems. It also made us question whether the owner was the sort of person that neglected other things like checking the oil and regular servicing.
So my advice is to spend a good 2 hours doing the best job you can, or even hire a valeting company to do a professional job. The buyer will then think you have cherished the vehicle and of course it will look more impressive too. Use wheel shines to make the alloys sparkle and the tyres look like new.
2. Get all the paperwork ready and organised
Most people just grab the log book and any other bits they have randomly kept. You should read through every bit of paperwork including receipts. This way you can show the potential buyer and explain everything. When they see that you can pick out a certain receipt at will, it will show you have been on the ball. Again this makes it look like you have really looked after the car.
If you are clumsily rustling through papers which are creased, it makes it appear that you don't care and may of cut corners. Appearance is everything so get a plastic folder and have everything in some sort of order. Little details like this will install trust in the buyer. People want to buy cars off women drivers as they are seen as people who have not gone overboard with the engine. The same concept applies here. Being organised and neat makes it look like you care.
Make sure you know the rules about paperwork too. See the government website on pages like this for the guidelines. A dealers will help with this but it is essential to know the requirements for private sales.
3. Do your homework and have figures in mind
Read the Parkers guidebook or use their website to discover what your vehicle is worth. You can expect different prices depending on who you sell to. A private sale will get you the highest price, selling to a dealer will get you a lower price as they then need to make a profit on the vehicle. Be aware of the differences and set yourself target figures and minimum amounts you would accept.
When selling you want to be clear about what you want and what you will accept. If you sound indecisive it will encourage the buyer to try and drive down the price. So stick to your guns. Many used car buyers will haggle just for the sake of it. They have tricks to push the price down as low as possible. It is a feeling out process but having clear guidelines in your head will help you stay strong when negotiating.
You can also do a bit of scouting for current prices of similar vehicles. Sometimes the guidebooks shouldn't be trusted. For example certain models and makes are more sought after. If there is a shortage of your model in your area, it may be possible to ask for a higher price. If you are not in a rush to sell, take your time and gradually reduce your asking price over time.
1. Clean the vehicle Really Well
Sounds obvious doesn't it, but many people just give their vehicle a quick once over. When I used to work at a Lancashire used cars dealer we always thought more of cars which came in to us in pristine condition. It is not just the fact that the car is clean and therefore less work for us. A really clean car is an indication of how well the vehicle has been looked after.
When we saw a car that had crumbs in the seats it was a red light that the person didn't care too much and there could be stains or hidden problems. It also made us question whether the owner was the sort of person that neglected other things like checking the oil and regular servicing.
So my advice is to spend a good 2 hours doing the best job you can, or even hire a valeting company to do a professional job. The buyer will then think you have cherished the vehicle and of course it will look more impressive too. Use wheel shines to make the alloys sparkle and the tyres look like new.
2. Get all the paperwork ready and organised
Most people just grab the log book and any other bits they have randomly kept. You should read through every bit of paperwork including receipts. This way you can show the potential buyer and explain everything. When they see that you can pick out a certain receipt at will, it will show you have been on the ball. Again this makes it look like you have really looked after the car.
If you are clumsily rustling through papers which are creased, it makes it appear that you don't care and may of cut corners. Appearance is everything so get a plastic folder and have everything in some sort of order. Little details like this will install trust in the buyer. People want to buy cars off women drivers as they are seen as people who have not gone overboard with the engine. The same concept applies here. Being organised and neat makes it look like you care.
Make sure you know the rules about paperwork too. See the government website on pages like this for the guidelines. A dealers will help with this but it is essential to know the requirements for private sales.
3. Do your homework and have figures in mind
Read the Parkers guidebook or use their website to discover what your vehicle is worth. You can expect different prices depending on who you sell to. A private sale will get you the highest price, selling to a dealer will get you a lower price as they then need to make a profit on the vehicle. Be aware of the differences and set yourself target figures and minimum amounts you would accept.
When selling you want to be clear about what you want and what you will accept. If you sound indecisive it will encourage the buyer to try and drive down the price. So stick to your guns. Many used car buyers will haggle just for the sake of it. They have tricks to push the price down as low as possible. It is a feeling out process but having clear guidelines in your head will help you stay strong when negotiating.
You can also do a bit of scouting for current prices of similar vehicles. Sometimes the guidebooks shouldn't be trusted. For example certain models and makes are more sought after. If there is a shortage of your model in your area, it may be possible to ask for a higher price. If you are not in a rush to sell, take your time and gradually reduce your asking price over time.