So, you have a used car that you're interested in selling. You have a good idea of what you're doing, but before you list that car, you want to make sure you're putting your best foot forward so you can make the most money possible.
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Simply put, you want to avoid the common mistakes that people make when selling their used cars so you don't miss out on any cash.
Well, selling your used car isn't all that complicated, but there are a few things you should be on the lookout for during the process. The common mistakes that people make when selling a car are absolutely avoidable if you know what you're doing.
In this article, we'll tell you about 7 terrible mistakes you should do your best to avoid when selling a used car.
Now then, let's get started!
1. Not Knowing the Value of Your Car
First, it's important to know the value of your car before putting it on the market to sell. Using resources like the Kelley Blue Book, you can easily determine a fair price for your car and go from there.
With that being said, don't lie to yourself about your car or it's value. If you know your car has issues, whether aesthetically or mechanically, you should take those issues into consideration when pricing your vehicle.
2. Lying About Your Car to Potential Buyers
Not only should you not lie to yourself about your car's worth, but you never want to lie to potential buyers, either. If you know your car has something going on with it, share that information with potential buyers.
That honesty can go a long way in establishing comfort and trust with potential buyers and even increase the chances of you selling the car.
Be upfront and honest about everything you know about your car. That includes things like accident reports, major repairs, and other things that potential buyers would be interested in knowing.
3. Not Cleaning Your Car Before Listing
Oftentimes, people feel that because their car is older and not worth as much a new vehicle, they shouldn't clean it up before listing it on the market. Don't do this. You'd be surprised at what cleaning your car could actually do for its chances of selling.
Right or wrong, we as a society tend to judge a book by its cover. That means first impressions, either in-person or via photo, can go a long way in drawing up interest for your car.
Take the time to clean the inside and outside of your vehicle before listing it for sale, you might be surprised what a little soap and water can do.
4. Taking Poor Photos of Your Car
If you plan on listing your car online, you're going to want to include some photos of your vehicle so buyers know what to expect. Take the time to take good photos with high-quality lighting. Include pictures of all sides of the car, as well as the interior, motor, and other things that buyers may be interested in seeing.
If there's damage to the car, include photos of that, too, so buyers aren't shocked when they see it in person. Also, be sure to accurately describe your vehicle in the listing.
5. Not Being Prepared to Show Your Car Quickly
Once you've listed your car, don't be surprised if you start getting some responses rather quickly. So if you plan on going out of town, or are busy that weekend, don't list your car. Wait until you're absolutely sure that you're going to be around and available before putting your car up for sale.
That way, if you get a quick bite, you can possibly get rid of your car sooner. The odds of you selling your car for the price you want are going to dwindle as time goes on, so it's wise to take advantage of that early interest.
6. Not Meeting Safely Meet with Potential Buyers
When it comes time to meet with potential buyers, you're going to want to make sure you do so safely. There are few rules of thumb that you should keep in mind when showing your car to a potential buyer.
First, do NOT meet at your home or work. Do so in a public space, during the day, where lots of people will be around. It's also a good idea to create a fake e-mail so you can communicate with buyers safely. Keep as much information as you can private during the process.
7. Jumping at the First Offer
If you get an offer, especially early on, don't feel obligated to jump on it right away. Obviously, if it's your asking price, go for it, but if it's not exactly what you wanted, don't be afraid to turn it down.
Also, keep an open line of communication with all potential buyers. A “no” doesn't have to mean a “no” forever, it could just mean a “no” for now. So if someone doesn't meet your offer, but you don't get anything better for a few months, you can contact them again and see if they're still interested.
Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Used Car
Well, there you have it! Those are 7 mistakes that you should look to avoid when selling a used car!
Remember, take your time in the early stages. Get all your paperwork together, clean up your ride, and take good pictures. Once you start receiving interest, be safe and quick with your responses.
Looking to sell your car for cash? Contact us today, we'll be glad to help you!