When it comes time to sell your vehicle, you should be prepared for the sale, whether you're trying to sell it privately or to a dealership. Whatever the circumstance, preparation and a little elbow grease can help to move your vehicle on with no issues. To remove the stress and maximize the cash when you sell your car, check out these tips.
Collect your paperwork. Take a few minutes to find your car's title and order a vehicle history report. You may want to double-check with the DMV about what paperwork will be required to transfer ownership and to contact your lender if you still owe money on your vehicle's loan.
Research an asking price. You should know what your car is worth so that you can price it accordingly. Look up your car's value on Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book and check comparable listings for similar cars in local ads. To get a fair deal, set your price slightly above the current market value but still in the ballpark of a good deal. A potential buyer may try to haggle with you after a test drive, so be willing to negotiate.
Polish it up. You don't have to fix every scratch and dent, but wash the exterior and clean the interior to set a good first impression. Pay particular attention to all the details a prospective buyer will see as he or she approaches the car (think of the door, driver's seat, etc.).
Choose a sales process. You can use newspaper ads/various online services to post photos and a description of your car. Note that it's a good idea to block our your car's license plate before posting the photos. Some services, like CarMax, purchase your vehicle and resell it for you, and others, like AutoTrader, allow you to buy ad space to help sell your car. Whichever process you choose, always watch out for scammers.
Find a good buyer. Speak only with serious buyers and give them a call to gauge their interest, discuss payment, and set up a test drive. In general, it's best not to sell to an out-of-state buyer, as it is often safer to sell your vehicle to someone you can meet in person.
Host a safe test drive. Never go on a test drive alone, ask a friend to join you. Meet the buyer in a populated area, such as a parking lot. Check his or her license and proof of insurance before they get behind the wheel.
Manage a secure transaction. The safest place to exchange payment is at the buyer's bank. Do not sign or hand over the vehicle title until you have received the full payment that you both agreed upon.
Once you've sold your car and bought a new vehicle, remember to alert your insurer. For the auto insurance to protect you while you're cruising the roads, visit Jack Stone Insurance Agency, serving Brentwood, Antioch, and surrounding metropolitan areas of California.
