We may be unable to match you with a top-dollar buyer at this time…

But there is still demand for your vehicle! Here are some tips for how to get the best price, no matter what you’re selling.

1. Know Your Vehicle

This is two-fold: know your vehicle's history (service records, VIN history) as well as what actual "options" it has - things were premium/extra selling points for the original purchase from the dealer. Better options = higher price!

2. Understand the Market

This means taking the time to search your local market (usually within 100 miles) to see what comparable vehicles to yours (often called “comps”) sell for. Sites like Cargurus, Cars.com, and Autotrader are a great place to start. 

3. Make an Eye-Catching Ad

Every vehicle has a story. This is your chance to tell that story in a way that will make the buyer feel a connection to it. The photos need to reflect that connection. Make sure your photos show a clean vehicle and highlight every angle of the vehicle, inside and out. Make sure you showcase options that add value, as well as the imperfections.

4. Meet in a Safe, Public Location

It’s never easy meeting a stranger, especially when you are letting them look and drive one of your biggest assets. Make sure you pick a test drive location that is highly trafficked. Also, MAKE SURE TO GO WITH THEM.

5. Have a Bottom-Line Price that Is Lower than What You're Asking

There is a lot of controversy around this statement. Purchasing a vehicle is an emotional connection. By letting the buyer negotiate the price down, even just slightly, it allows the buyer to feel like they “won.” 

6. Have your Paperwork Ready to Go

When a deal is struck and it’s time to sign the paperwork, be ready. This means have a bill of sale ready to go, emissions test (if required by the state), and the title (if no title, make sure to complete all documents required by the bank holding your lien). Do not sign anything until you have verified valid proof of payment (cash or cashier’s check). Never accept a personal check.