Selling Tips
What is your Vehicle Worth?
Know your market. Compare your vehicle with similar vehicles. Keep in mind Make, Model,
Year, Kilometers, Performance, Condition and Demand. The higher the demand the higher
the asking price.
It is very important to set the right price.
Be open-minded when setting the price. Main factors to consider when setting a price:
First look at the year and model. Luxury or sport models generally sell for a higher price.
Second, What are the kilometers on the vehicle? An average vehicle is driven
approximately 20,000 kilometers per year. Multiply 20,000 times the age of your
vehicle to get average kilometers. i.e.: a vehicle 2 years old the average is 40,000 km,
etc. Compare your vehicle odometer reading to the average. If your vehicle odometer
shows approximately half, then it is considered low kilometers, then you may ask for
a higher price. For a vehicle with high odometer readings the vehicle value is generally lower.
Last factor to consider is repairs. What needs fixing? i.e.: The body, tires, brakes, engine, transmission, steering and/or suspension. What is the total cost of repairs. Consider this amount from the value.
Again be open-minded and give yourself a little room to negotiate. Negotiating for the vehicle price is expected.
Place your self as the buyer, who has just seen two or three similar vehicles. They would immediately compare your vehicles first impression. This is something you should consider before selling, shop around local sellers / dealers and ask for a similar vehicle to yours, compare condition, kilometers and price
Is your Vehicle Ready?
Here are some tips in preparing your vehicle to sell:
Clean vehicle in detail, inside and out. Wash, vacuum, clean the windows, shine the
tires and hub caps, engine compartment. First impressions go a long way. Consider
a good waxing.
Eliminate any odors, i.e.: smoke and pets.
Replace any missing items, i.e.: burnt bulbs, fuses, floor and trunk mats.
You may want to have the vehicle inspected and use the test results to backup your price.
Consider getting a vehicle history report. This makes you standout from other sellers. Proves you are serious, and confident in your vehicle. You do not want to waste time and buyers will be assured. He/she does not have to guess on the history of the vehicle. You are being
open (honest); therefore setting the buyers' mind at ease and gaining trust.
Inform yourself if your vehicle needs to pass an emissions test, call your provincial government.
Research
Are you Ready?
Do your paper work ahead.
Gather all vehicle service and repair receipts. This is your proof of how you maintained the vehicle and it gives the buyer confidence that the vehicle was well taken care of.
Inform yourself with the requirements from your provincial government on selling a used vehicle. In some provinces the seller is required to obtain a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP)
Research
Be optimistic about your ad. Take the time to research and organize yourself. Potential buyers are evaluating you and your vehicle.
Use a digital camera or visit a local photo finish center and ask to make jpeg images of your pictures onto a disk or cd.
Sample Ad
In the description, use descriptive words, i.e.: original owner, non-smoker, low kms, detail upgrades, new tires, etc.
Print out free Flyers and For Sale signs. This is the most economical way to advertise locally. Post the flyers on local bulletin boards. Preferably Flyers with tear off phone numbers tags at the bottom. This makes it easy for potential buyer to tear off your phone number. Place two For Sale signs on opposite windows of the vehicle when you are parked. Use bright colors, stating your phone number and website where your vehicle is advertised in. Driving with your signs up, may distract drivers.
Be available to prospective buyers. Use the phone, or email. Remember to return all messages promptly.
Be prepared to answer questions. Be around to show the vehicle and test driving with potential buyers.
Serious buyers may want to have the vehicle inspected by their own mechanic or a service center. This is reasonable. Most buyers will assume the cost. Don't pay for it yourself. If an interested buyer wants to test drive the vehicle, accompany the buyer with someone you know. It's recommended not to meet at your home.
Verify that you have the proper insurance to cover someone else driving your vehicle.
Before going for a test drive, ask to see the drivers' license. Never go alone or just give the keys to a stranger. Your vehicle has a dollar value. Be alert, think safety, no need for long drives or unfamiliar roads. Remember you are with a stranger.
Showcase your vehicle!
Advertise Nationally / Sell locally.
Advertising your vehicle to prospective buyers beyond your local area. With an online ad you will benefit from local and out of town prospects. Most of your buyers are still local; however, out of town buyers may be willing to pay more for your vehicle.
Advertising Value: online ads are fairly inexpensive and display more information, pictures and very extensive detail research and reviews from many sources compared to print, TV or radio.
Sample Ad
Research
Some online websites are free to place your ad and run for one month or until the vehicle sells. Surf the web for the right classified website. Don't limit yourself just to one.
Most websites offer 24x7 system access to update your information. i.e.: change the description, photos, asking price, contact info, etc . Most changes are effective immediately at no additional cost.
Found a buyer!
Before starting to negotiate KNOW the value of your vehicle and your minimum price. Buyers will comment on any small scratches or faults to reduce your price. Don't be discouraged. Be prepared for any comments. Remind the buyer that the vehicle is used, and some wear and tare is expected. Negotiating over the price of the vehicle is expected. A buyer will usually offer a lower price.
Follow your provincial government requirements. Check title transfer procedures and to how to finalize the sale.
Protect yourself from fraud, ask for a certified cheque from a well-known financial institution. Be careful with complicated and / or paperless payment plans.
If you suspect a scam or fraud, check this link or call your local authority. Who should I contact? What should I do?
* Statements, tips or any suggestions are provided as information only. You should not act or rely on it without seeking the advice of a professional advisor. While Autodeal and Metria Corporation considers the information provided to be reliable it makes no representations nor warrants that the information contained is complete, timely, or accurate. Autodeal and Metria Corporation is not liable for any errors or omissions which may be contained in the information and accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss arising from any use of or reliance on this information.