How to Sell a Car in Georgia
by William AdkinsSometimes when it’s time to get rid of a used car, you just trade it in for a new model. If you need to actually sell a car, it can be a real headache. The good news is that if you know the regulations and have a plan, you can sell a car in Georgia and get more money with less hassle.
Step 1
Know the state regulations that apply when you sell a car in Georgia. You must have the title to the car unless it is past a given age. In that case, you can substitute a certificate of origin. The dates on this do change from year to year. You can find out if your car qualifies and get a certificate of origin through your county tax commissioner’s office.
Step 2
Obtain the forms that will be needed to complete the sale. Strictly speaking, as long as you have the title (or certificate of origin) you aren’t required to have any other documents. But it is much easier to sell a car in Georgia if you have a bill of sale ready to fill out and a title transmittal form for your buyer’s convenience. Both are available online using the links at the end of this article. It’s also a good idea to have a photocopy of your title to keep for your records.
Step 3
Clean the car inside and out. Selling a car is like selling a house. If it’s clean and neat it will sell faster and probably for more money. If the vehicle is a late model and worth a good deal, it may be worth your while to invest a few dollars making minor repairs to upholstery and getting a tune-up.
Step 4
Advertise to sell your car in Georgia. Your best advertising options are the newspaper, online sites and local automotive buying guides. However, don’t neglect places like bulletin boards at local churches or colleges.
Step 5
Know your facts when you are negotiating with a potential buyer. The best way to cost yourself money when you sell a car is not to know how much it’s worth. You can check the fair market value of your car very easily by looking in the online version of the Kelly Blue Book. Just click on the link to the website at the end of this article.
Step 6
Finalize the sale and fill out the bill of sale. In Georgia it is the buyer's responsibility for going to the county tax commissioner’s office and registering the title change and for getting new tags. Before you hand over the keys, remove the old license tag and keep it.
Things You'll Need
- Title or certificate of origin
Writer Bio
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, W D Adkins has been writing professionally since 2008. He writes about business, personal finance and careers. Adkins holds master's degrees in history and sociology from Georgia State University. He became a member of the Society of Professional Journalists in 2009.
