The prospect of buying a car is quite exciting. Whether you’ve put money aside to save for something special or it’s simply time for an upgrade, car enthusiasts love the process. From the initial research to the moment you drive your motor home for the first time, car shopping can be a lot of fun.
Something many people forget about when buying a new car is that they have to sell their existing one. Unlike buying a vehicle, selling one isn’t as enjoyable. It requires quite a bit of organisation and at times, a lot of work. If you’re struggling to make a sale, the process can quickly become stressful.
Although some cars are easier to sell than others, there’s no telling what kind of buyer will express an interest in your vehicle. No matter what you do, you may have to deal with tough negotiators or unpleasant people.
Irrespective of your potential buyers, there are certain things you must do before selling your car. Follow these four tips to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
1: Organise all relevant paperwork
When selling a car privately, a certain amount of paperwork must be exchanged between the car owner and the buyer.
Firstly, you should gather the owner’s handbook, the service history logbook (and receipts), and the MOT certificate. This is the most basic paperwork that should accompany any vehicle.
When you are in the process of selling the car, you must send the V5C (registered proof of ownership) to the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) before passing the relevant section to the new buyer.
Ensure that you write a receipt and copy one for your record keeping.
Proper paperwork organisation not only increases the value of your car, but it also legitimises the sale in the event of legal issues.
2: Handle repairs
If you’re buying or selling anything, it’s important to have morals and to operate in good faith. If your vehicle requires some mechanical or repair work, either declare the issues or have a mechanic complete the repairs.
When hiring someone to complete repair work, always ensure that you opt for a reputable business such as Kent Smart Repairs. Keep receipts and records of all work done.
3: Keep your car pristine, inside and out
Nobody wants to buy a dirty or messy car. Whether you tackle this task at home or you hire a professional service, ensure that your vehicle is sparkling inside and out. This will make your car easier to sell, and it makes it safer to drive.
4: Get your car valued by a professional
Several factors come into play when determining the value of your car, such as the make, model, trim, year of purchase, number of miles driven, and overall condition. Have a car expert value your car or use a valuation tool to get an accurate idea of what your vehicle is worth. Overpricing can make the vehicle hard to sell, while underpricing will cause you to lose out on potential earnings. Once your car is accurately priced, you can go about creating the perfect advert.
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