Navigating the different ways to sell your car can be a bit overwhelming. From deciding on your pricing strategy to deciding where to sell it, there’s an array of factors to consider when trying to fetch the best price for your vehicle.
In this guide, we’ll explore the process of selling your car and how to maximise its value.
If you’re wondering how much you should expect to get for your car, your first port of call should be a free online valuation tool. These can provide an estimate based on factors such as make, model and mileage – but remember they are only estimations and other factors might affect the pricing of your car.
For example, damage can (understandably) result in a lower value. On the flip side, don’t undervalue your vehicle. Highlighting unique features, careful ownership and recent maintenance can justify a slightly higher price.
Shop around – search for similar models advertised online, as your make and model could be in high demand! And use different valuation tools, as they could use different calculations. For example, at Hendy Buy Any Car, our quick and easy valuation tool generates a quote based on real-time market data for similar vehicles and current market conditions.
Choosing who to sell your car to is an important decision. Here are three options and their pros and cons:
· Selling your car to a dealership: One reason you’ll want to get the highest price possible is because you’re planning to use the money to help fund a new car. Trading in with a local dealership can therefore be a hassle-free way of upgrading to a new model. Even if you’re not looking to part-exchange, a dealer can help you shift your car quickly. Established dealerships (like us!) are regulated by industry standards, and they also provide a streamlined process, handling paperwork and legalities on your behalf.
· Sell your car online: Online platforms have become go-to places for selling used cars privately. Selling this way allows you to reach a broader audience, meaning you could potentially get a higher price. But this method also requires time, effort and a potential advert fee. You’ll need to be available for viewings…and grow a thick skin to potential timewasters!
· Selling your car at an auction: Attending an auction is a way of getting quick cash for your car, but it’s a less common approach for private buyers, as auctions are very intense and rife with bargain hunters.
Essentially, there are two key factors to consider when selling your vehicle: maximising how much you sell it for versus how much time and effort you can put in. Depending on which is most important to you, the perfect route for selling your vehicle will become obvious.
As well as arming yourself with knowledge and listing it in the right place, there are some other easy ways you can ensure that you sell your car for the best price.
1. Give it some TLC
Before sending your car off on its next adventure, investing a bit in the presentation and maintenance of your vehicle can significantly increase its value. A thorough clean (inside and out!), fixing minor imperfections and ensuring all essential maintenance is up to date can make your car stand out in a crowded market and even increase the value of your car.
2. Grab your paperwork and accessories
Make sure you have all the keys for your car, as well as things like locking wheel nut keys and any accessories you might have taken out, like your parcel shelf. Collate all the relevant documentation to hand, including:
· V5C (logbook)
· Service book
· Invoices for significant work done or new parts
· The owner’s manual
· (If relevant) Proof that any finance has been paid off, or a finance settlement letter indicating the total amount of outstanding finance
· MOT certificates – talking of which…
3. Consider an MOT test
When it comes to factors that will help you get more money for your car, a recently MOT-tested car is more appealing to buyers. Not only does it save them from an immediate expense, but it also instils greater confidence in the car’s overall condition.
Ultimately, the best way to sell your car depends on your goals and priorities. At Hendy Buy Any Car, we’re proud to offer a quick, easy and profitable way to sell your car.
As an established family-run dealer group with locations across the South Coast, we pride ourselves on our no-pressure environment. We understand that for some drivers, selling your car is not just a transaction – it’s about passing on a chapter of your life. Our dealerships are valued parts of their local communities, and we’re sure to find a loving new owner who’s ready to continue your car’s journey!
What’s more, you don’t need to sell your car on a part-exchange basis, but if you are considering buying a new car, your quote will be valid for 30 days, giving you the flexibility and time to decide.
Ready to get started? Get a quote and sell your car today!