How to Sell Used Cars as a Private Seller
As a private used car seller, you aren't necessarily covered by the same buyer-protection laws as a professional dealer. For example, you may not be required to give a warranty or promise that the car will pass state inspection. Despite this, you stand a better chance of selling used cars privately if you treat buyers with the utmost respect. The better your reputation in your community, the more people are likely to refer their friends and family to you.
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Instructions
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Find four-door sedans for sale in local classifieds such as the newspaper, Craigslist, eBay and Backpage. These cars are popular among used car buyers. Use a guide such as Edmunds or the Kelley Blue Book to determine which are priced fairly given their condition and buy as many as you can afford at once. Get a copy of each title and have it transferred into your name at the local department of motor vehicles.
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Vacuum each car's upholstery, wash the body and clean the windows to make it attractive to buyers. Roll down windows to air out any odors, but avoid air fresheners because their scents may turn off potential buyers.
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Set a price for each car that accounts for the car's condition and is higher than what you paid for it. Repairing a car may allow you to increase its sale price, but the added cost of the repairs may make the car too expensive for many buyers. As a private seller, you aren't obligated to sell a car in perfect condition.
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Advertise the car in local classifieds. Include a picture of the sides, front and back of the car and list any damage. Give your sale price and contact information for interested people to contact you for a test drive.
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Mention the car's positive qualities to the customer while he inspects and drives the car. Close the sale as soon as he seems willing to buy it by arranging payment.
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Make a copy of the title for the buyer so he can transfer it into his name. Give him the title only after he gives you money for the car.
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