The vast majority of drivers will have to sell a car at some point in their life, but it can be an intimidating process for people who are unsure about how to go about it. Learning how to sell a car efficiently will speed the operation up and reduce unnecessary stress and hassle. These simple tips will help you not just sell your car but also improve your chances of receiving an excellent price for it.
1. Repairs and cosmetics
After deciding to sell your vehicle, the first thing you need to consider is repairing anything that will either help it sell or increase its price. If the car runs smoothly, then you just need to check the bodywork for any noticeable damage before sitting in the car and trying every switch and button to test the electronics. Most electronic issues are fixed by merely replacing a fuse, so it makes financial sense to fix it before the sale to maximize the vehicle’s value.
Once any necessary repairs have been carried out, you can concentrate on the aesthetic side of things. Give the outside of the car a good wash and polish before tackling the interior with a damp cloth and some elbow grease. Cleaning and washing a vehicle is the most cost-effective way of securing a quick and profitable sale.
2. Advertising
Once your car is ready to be presented to the world, you have to decide now where to advertise it. There are many avenues open to you when it comes to advertising, but your best bet is to settle on a combination of a few of them. The simplest and most popular ways to advertise may include putting a sign in the car window, taking out an ad in a local paper, or posting on a dedicated car-selling website.
Wherever you decide to advertise, remember to include the mileage, condition and your contact details. Describe the vehicle as accurately and as truthfully as possible by declaring any serious mechanical issues you’re aware of. To decide on a price, browse other classifieds in your area of the same make, model, and mileage. Set the advertised price at a point you’re willing to compromise a little on during negotiations.
3. Paperwork
Before a viewing, gather any relevant documents. Buyers will ask to see the MOT certificate, log book and service record as well as any receipts or handbooks you have stored away. Once you’ve agreed on a price, you must draw up two identical receipts, one for each party. Include the registration number, make, model, date, and cost of the car as well as the names and addresses of both parties. Verify the buyer’s contact details by asking to see their license.
Once you’ve received full payment, you can hand over the keys and all the relevant paperwork. Complete the new keeper details section of the V5C form and sign where prompted. Give the new keeper section to the buyer and send the rest to the DVLA to complete the transaction.
4. Safety
The vast majority of car sales go smoothly and fairly, but you must still take precautions against any potential thieves or scammers. Avoid any buyers that ask you to transfer money to them for any reason. Scammers have been known to pose as overseas buyers before requesting the payment of a small “shipping fee” to expedite the transaction. In general, be wary of anyone who requires money or unnecessary contact information before seeing the car and doesn’t hand over the keys before a check payment has cleared.
At a viewing, always ask for proof of identity and never leave the buyer in the car alone with the keys in the ignition. Accompany all potential buyers on test drives and don’t hand over the keys before you have all of the cash in your hands or your bank has confirmed the payment to you directly.
Selling your vehicle can be a trying experience, but it doesn’t have to be. The process of selling can seem slightly daunting and convoluted, but by preparing beforehand and knowing the correct procedures, you can sell your car quickly, efficiently, and for a great price.