So, you’ve decided to sell your car. Whether you’re upgrading to a newer model or simply do not need one anymore, this is an exciting time: it means more money in your pocket!
If you’re looking for the best resale value (which you should be!), then you’re going to have to do a little groundwork. A little preparation goes a long way when you’re trying to get the best price for your vehicle. Remember, first impressions matter, so you should know how to make it count.
Here are some tips to prepare your car for sale
1) Get a roadworthy certificate
The first step to selling your car is getting a roadworthy certificate. This is a requirement in Queensland and acts as proof that your car is safe to drive on public roads. The inspection covers basic safety operations such as the braking system, the tire condition, and the fittings and equipment. Our licensed inspectors at Auto Leaders can carry out this inspection for you, and all you have to do is book an appointment!
2) Get it serviced
Whilst a roadworthy certificate checks for all the safety operations, it is not a full service. That’s why it’s a good idea to get full service on your car before selling it to make it more attractive to a potential buyer. If you can show a full service history, the value of your car will increase.
3) Keep your insurance
You might think that because you’re selling your car, you can transfer or cancel your insurance policy straight away. You should actually wait until after the sale of the car before jumping the gun. If you’re selling the car privately, potential buyers may want to test drive the car, in which case they will need to be insured. Once the sale has been finalised, you can then transfer the insurance to your new car.
4) Detail it like a pro
Appearance in selling a car is like the equivalent of location in real estate. You want the car to look sparkly clean to leave a good impression on a potential buyer. This includes giving the interior a good vacuum, washing and polishing the exterior, and making sure it also smells brand new!
5) Take great pictures
If you’re selling your car online, then the pictures you take will be important. You want to advertise your car the best way possible. You don’t have to take professional shots, just make sure you have good lighting and a clean background!
A decent amount of effort is required to prepare your car for sale, but it can definitely pay off in the final deal. If you’ve followed all these tips and are looking to sell fast, don’t underprice your car too much as buyers can get suspicious. If you need help determining a good selling price for your used vehicle, don’t hesitate to ask our friendly team members!
