Tips on selling a car

Chances are, at least once in your lifetime you will try to sell your car. Your strategy and the best approach will depend on the amount of time you are willing to invest, on the amount of money you are willing to spend and save.

• Dealer trade-in. This is the simplest way to get rid of your car. A dealer will apply the trade-in value of the car towards your new purchase. Usually you don’t need to do much to prepare your car, as the dealer will be mostly concerned with the car’s record and the overall appearance. The trade-in amount is also a tax free amount when applied towards the new car.
• Do-it-yourself.  Requires more work, but it’s more rewarding.
  • Make sure your car is clean inside and out. Replace broken lights and burnout light bulbs. The first impression is the biggest selling tool.
  • Put together the service records for your car. Regular oil changes and overall maintenance records add value to the sale.
  • Use online free tools like craigslist to advertise. Take good pictures and create a detailed description of the car. Without pictures you have very limited chances. Learn what would be a fair price. Try to stay flexible in your price.
  • Prepare “As is bill of sale” to protect yourself. You can write it yourself of download it for free from the internet. If your car has problems you are aware of but refuse to mention them to the buyer, it’s likely the “as is” bill won’t protect you. Mention problems in the bill to avoid complications. Make two copies.
  • Don’t forget to submit “Vehicle Report of Sale” to the state when you transfer the title to the buyer.