Spruce it Up
A car that looks good will sell for more, but that doesn't just include the paint job and the upholstery.
- Make sure that everything works almost like new, such as the doors and windows as well as the stereo system. Little things can make a big difference to buyers.
- Check the seals all around the doors and windows to make sure they work properly. If not, replacing them is fairly easy.
- Buy new floor mats or have the carpet cleaned. Take your car to a professional detailer that can make worn areas look almost like new.
If you have dents in the body or chips in the windshield, get them repaired. This can mean the difference between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars on the selling price of your vehicle. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, shop around for someone who offers quality service at a low price.
Fix Mechanical Issues
If you know your brakes are going to need replaced, do it before the sale. A lot of times a buyer will like the fact that a used car has new parts on it because he or she won't have to replace them anytime soon. Make sure the car runs smoothly with no strange sounds.
Know Your Car's Worth and the Cost for Insuring the Car
Find out what your car is really worth before listing the price. Even if it is worth a lot to you, it may not be worth it to everyone else. You can also check car insurance quotes to see how yours stacks up against similar cars. This can be a selling point for some buyers, especially first-time buyers or those looking at a used car for a teenager.
List any safety features that could lower car insurance quotes, such as anti-lock brakes or a rear view camera. While these may not be features the buyer looks for, they might appreciate them when you point them out.
In the end, you have to decide if selling your car is a better option than trading it in. It can take more work, but bring a better price.
