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Ready to part with your vehicle?
The majority of us are busy. It is quite easy to overlook the obvious and not so obvious when it comes to preparing to sell a car. There are many aspects one needs to cover to ensure receiving max value for their old vehicle beyond just a mere sprucing up. This article will attempt to simplify the process.
Step one: Gather
Car Title make sure it is fully in your name without lien
Any and all documentation provided to you on the purchase date. Owners manual, Maintenance manual, Infotainment manual, manuals for anything aftermarket (Remote Start, Radio, Hitch, bed cover etc), service records, the original window sticker sheet all will help add value to the sale
If the vehicle is accident free consider providing a Car Fax.
Gather EVERY available key down to the valet in your possession. Cannot stress this enough. Having every key imparts on the buyer that the seller is organized, doesn't lose things and likely is a well adjusted individual- ergo maintenance was likely followed to a T. When equipped the same goes for key fobs, toolbox keys, spare tire keys, hitchpin keys and wheel lock keys.
Step two: Prepare
Sure these things may not bother you, perhaps you've grown accustomed to it but trust the new buyer will take notice. Clean slate.
Repair the affordable inconveniences and imperfections you've grown to accept as normal-Replace that broken door handle, inoperative window, and rattling exhaust clamp
Clean or better yet have the vehicle professionally detailed. Clean detailed vehicles DRASTICALLY increase sales value. No one wants a stained or odorus interior. Further a great deal of exterior blemishes can actually "buff out" Tar, paint transfer, tree sap etc can all be removed.
Ensure all lighting works
Remove all of 'you'- Clean slate is the idea here. The prospective buyer will want to be able to envision themselves in the vehicle. Remove all bumper stickers and window decals. Sure you may love fuzzy steering wheel covers, sequins on every conceivable surface, Yosemite Sam mud flaps, a skull shift knob, bullet valve caps, superfluous items hanging from the mirror, nude silhouette floor mats etc but it is most likely the new owner will not. Political stickers, Betty Boop, Hello Kitty, Batman, 420, NRA paraphernalia etc all need to go. However neutral colored accessories ie flat black floor mats or wood stained steering covers consider leaving as they add value.
Make sure fluids are at their proper levels and the oil has been recently serviced.
Touch up paint is readily available at a low cost. Consider covering up bare metal scratches. Follow directions and importantly take your time. Intimidated by the process? Many detailers will add such service for a nominal fee atop their detail price.
Step three: Set a Price
Now that the vehicle is at it's optimum it's time to determine a method of sale. If it's at the dealership or to be sold privately. Be realistic in setting your selling price. Unsure of what value to assign? Consider getting a independent mechanics assessment (sometimes known as a pre purchase inspection). Aside from being able to establish a realistic value, this individual will be able to see items easily overlooked, further if one is selling privately it is likely the mechanic will know of prospective local buyers, local clubs or forums one can utilize to ensure a quick sale for maximum value.
Step four: Sell
Whether it's at a dealership or privately the following will remain true. Ultimately one wants to impart confidence upon the buyer. One should be clean cut (think realtor) and prepared to answer any and all questions quickly and accurately. Meet only in a very public areas and let many others know where you'll be.
Questions commonly asked;
Why are you selling?
Are you flexible in price?
How long did you own the vehicle?
Do you know of any problems with the vehicle?
Do you have service records?
What did you use the vehicle for?
What car are you now looking for?
When was the vehicle last serviced?
Congratulations and good luck in selling your vehicle. If you still seem unsure about the journey ahead consider a vehicle flipping service.
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