Posted on 06/02/2016 8:46:20 AM PDT by Jagermonster
Hey Fellow Freepers
Im getting ready to sell my car, and planning to sell private party. Ive never done this before (First car traded in, second car totaled . . . ) so Im hoping to tap the wisdom of the Freeperverse on how best to go about doing it.
I have a few questions, in no particular order:
(1) Is it better to go with a craigslist ad, or to use one of the paid auto listing services like Autotrader or Cars.com?
(2) Where do you look, and what do you look for when you shop for used cars?
(3) Is it better to spend some money for minor repairs, or just sell it in its current condition? (Its about due for new brake pads, and has some small dents.)
(4) How important is having the vehicle maintenance history available? (I hadnt ever planned to sell it, so I didnt keep good records, even though I have had regular oil changes and recommended maintenance done).
(5) How do you all handle meetups with potential buyers and test drives?
(6) I know it is important to have the car clean, but how clean is clean enough? Do I need to go whole hog with stuff like a wipe down of the engine compartment and armor-all on the door seals, etc., or is a good wash and wax, with a vacuum and scrub of the interior sufficient?
Id appreciate anything you all would care to share about these questions, or other general advice, comments, or stories about about selling a car to a private party.
Thanks!
“...like there was a dead body in the trunk in a hot parking lot for two weeks and even your dog wont go near it.”
In a related story:
Take it to Carmax they will give you a free appraisal. If you have problems selling it yourself,
you can sell it there with no hassle but you won’t get top dollar for sure
Not sure this is helpful because I have Family who own a Auto Body Shop ...I always have them sell our cars. Would you have a trusted friend in the Auto business because they see and talk to many people every day. Our latest car is a Toyota from a man in his 80’s who decided he didn’t want to drive anymore with the help of the police. A shop would be my only thought...
Excellent advice from all. I’ll just add the following minor details:
1. Have a bill of sale form handy; that’s required in most states. Sometimes the sales amount is fudged a bit (but not too much) on the bill of sale to lower the buyer’s sales tax burden; you can decide if you’re willing to do that.
2. You might need to have a notary witness and stamp the title when you sign it over, depending on the state.
3. Generally, you’ll keep the old plates; in some states you can turn them in for a pro-rata refund on the most recent year’s registration fee.
4. In some states, a PASSING emissions test is required BEFORE you can sell a car.
Good advice.
CCW at all times, for you/your back-up friend(s).
Years ago, I was selling my ‘78 Ford Bronco and some people came to my house for a test drive. Less than a week later it was stolen from my driveway in broad daylight.
Probably not a coincidence...
High mile shitbox: craigslist and don’t waste much time cleaning.
5-8 year old car with over 80k miles. Detail and use craigslist.
Late model with low mileage... Much harder to sell on craigslist, but still worth a try for free. Detail.
Collector’s car or really nice late model: Autotrader.com, priced at just above what you would get for a trade.
If you are in a bad area, meet the buyer at Dunkin Donuts. If you live in New Hampshire, your house is fine. They are the ones bringing the money. No test drives without cash in hand. Give a ride if necessary.
Cash only. I repeat, cash only.
if possible - BRING A GUN !
Sell it to me. I need one.
“
The car is a 2010 Honda Accord V6 Coupe, “
Honda’s, especially coups, have a dedicated following. I’d research local car clubs and offer it at a slight premium in their newsletter or their website. They will be only too happy to list it for you, probably free. Include plenty of pictures showing both the 20 foot appeal and close-ups of dings and bangs. If the air condition works, that’s a plus. If not, say so. I have found honesty is much appreciated. The fact that you are honest about the condition prevents people from being angry if they would not buy a car with whatever flaw you didn’t mention.
Best of luck.
I always meet up at a wal mart parking lot. Take someone with you.
That car had a lot of stains.
If you don’t want the hassle, take it to Carmax.
Look around and see what comparable Cars are selling for before you get in to be sure they aren’t lowballing you too much.
If Carmax is close in price, take it. You have a week to think about it so there’s no pressure to take their offer.
I sold one Car to them already. Took about an Hour and I walked out with a Check. They met the bottom end of what I wanted and I was happy with the deal.
I actually regretted not taking their Offer on another Car, my Corvette. I thought it was a bit low, but after the hassle I had selling the Car, the $2,000 more I got for it Private Party really wasn’t worth the Heartburn. Just my experience.
On the other side, People love Honda’s, so it might go fast.
Always.
CCW = Concealed Carry Permit (PA).
Should have called this guy.
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