You've finally decided to sell your car. You're ready for a new one — or maybe you just need the extra cash. Whatever the reason, selling your car can be a hassle. But it doesn't have to be.
If you follow these two tips, you'll be able to fetch a reasonable price for your car and avoid common mistakes people make. Ready to learn more? Keep reading!
Know Your Car's Worth
You can't sell your car for more than it's worth, no matter how badly you need the money. You also don't want to sell it for less than it's worth and leave money on the table. So, how do you know your car's worth?
There are a few different ways to find out. You can:
Once you have a good idea of your car's worth, you'll be able to set a fair price.
Keep in mind that your car's worth may be different from the estimated value you find online. For example, if your car is in poor condition, you can expect to sell it for less than its listed value. The same goes for cars with high mileage.
Pro Tip: Not sure how to find recent sales of similar cars in your area? A quick online search will turn up plenty of results. Just be sure to check the date of each sale to make sure the prices are still relevant.
Get Your Car in Shape
Once you know how much your car is worth, it's time to get it in shape. This doesn't mean you need to go out and get a brand-new paint job. But you should take care of any major repairs required. For example, if your car has always had a problem with the engine, now is the time to get it fixed. You don't want the engine acting up just after you find a willing buyer.
You should also take care of any cosmetic damage, such as scratches or dents. These aren't necessarily deal-breakers, but they will lower the price of your car.
You'll also want to give your car a good cleaning, inside and out. Doing so will make your car more presentable to potential buyers and help you sell it faster.
Don't have the time or money to fix up your car? You can sell it "as is." Just be sure to mention the damage in your listing and be prepared to sell it for a lower price.
Contact a professional to learn more about how to sell cars for cash.