COVID-19 caused a lot of people to re-examine all areas of their lives — even with the smallest things, like their relationship with their cars. Pre-pandemic, people used their cars almost every day. Now, vehicles are sitting in garages unused.

This, combined with business shutdowns and social distancing protocols, has prompted many car owners to sell their vehicles or downsize their fleet. Many consumers are also trading high profile vehicles for smaller cars that are more budget-friendly. Some are even going the extra mile by selling all car-related items, including 2 post lifts.

On the other hand, people who wish to avoid public transportation are considering buying a car — second-hand, mostly.

So, if you have been thinking about selling your car, now is a good time. The good news is you have plenty of options, too. Some options are obvious, like selling it to a friend or neighbor or trading in the car. Other options are less obvious (e.g. getting a guaranteed price from local dealers or selling it to national used car retailers).

Do You Know How Much Your Car Is Worth?

If not, it’s time to do your research because this step is the most important first step. Before you can sell your car, understand its value first. A few factors determine the worth of your car. These include the following:

• Car model
• Car bran
• Mileage
• Age of the vehicle
• Overall condition

Fortunately, many online resources can evaluate your car’s value. Consumer Reports’ online car value calculator can get a current market value for your vehicle. All you have to do is enter a few details about your current vehicle and you’ll get information about the value of your car.

The value of your car determines how much you can sell it, as well as the type of transaction you may have. If you want to trade your car and buy a new one, you will receive an accurate trade-in value. These wholesale prices offer a cut to the dealer when they sell your car.

On the other hand, if you want to sell your car to a private part, the price may be a “clean retail.”

What Is The Best Way to Sell a Car?

Once you’ve understood the value of your car, decide on how you want to sell it. Part of your decision depends on the amount of time you’ll dedicate to selling your car. Do you want to sell your vehicle for a fair price ASAP? Or are you considering selling cars as your life’s work?

If you sell your vehicle to a private party, you’ll definitely earn more. But before you do, consider the time you’ll be spending on the preparation for the sale: getting the car ready, creating the ads and showing the vehicle to potential customers. Also, make sure that you’re comfortable with the payment method since you don’t deserve a worthless check.

You can also trade-in your car for another one. However, if you’re selling your vehicle without replacing it, a trade-in isn’t an option. Another easy way to sell your car is by visiting local dealers and asking them how much they’ll pay for your vehicle.

How Can I Sell My Car?

No matter where or how you want to sell your car, there are few tricks that can maximize the returns on your vehicle. Once you’ve cleaned and waxed your car, consider the following tips.

Disclose It or Fix It

If your vehicle has mechanical problems, you have two options: let the prospective buyer know or repair the car. Some people aren’t big fans of buying cars with problems but there are dealers who will buy them for a lower price. These dealers can repair the mechanical issues, after all. But if you want to sell your car for a higher value, invest in its repair.

Play The Field

Like other transactions, taking the first offer isn’t wise unless it offered exactly what you want (if not more). Once you’ve interacted with one buyer, shop your car to other private parties and dealers and see if anyone can beat the first offer.

Show Them That You Care

Potential buyers want to know the car they’re purchasing is in good condition. Reassure them by showing them your car’s maintenance records. These will prove the level of care your car has been receiving from you.

You can sell your car in many ways. But all of them require proper consideration, especially in terms of value and how you sell them. So instead of letting your car gather dust, let it go by selling it.