Welcome,  

NAVIGATION
Introduction
Step 1: Know the Market
Step 2: Price Your Car Competitively
Step 3: Give Your Car "Curb Appeal"
Step 4: Where to Advertise Your Car
Step 5: Create Ads That Sell
Step 6: Showing Your Car
Step 7: Negotiate For Your Best Price
Step 8: Handling Complications
Step 9: Finalize the Sale
Step 10: After the Sale
Checklist



Selling Tips

10 Steps to Selling Your Car
Checklist
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor
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  • Consider market factors affecting the sale of your car (don't try to sell a convertible in the winter).
  • Check local classified ads to see what others in your area are asking for your type of vehicle.
  • Determine a selling price for your car using Edmunds.com's True Market Value system.
  • Give your car "curb appeal" by cleaning and detailing it. Fix any problems or drop the price and sell it "as is."
  • Get a smog inspection if required by your state DMV.
  • Consider buying a Carfax (vehicle history) report, or getting a mechanic's inspection report to show prospective buyers.
  • Create a "For Sale" sign for your car window.
  • Post an eye-catching on-line or print classified advertisement.
  • Make yourself available to answer calls from potential buyers.
  • Arrange to show the car to prospective buyers.
  • Negotiate your best selling price by knowing the market and not dropping your price too quickly. Be patient. Don't let yourself be pressured.
  • Collect payment for the car by getting a cashier's check or cash.
  • Finalize the sale by fulfilling all state motor vehicles department paperwork to transfer ownership and limit your liability.
  • Remove all personal items from your car before it is driven away by the new owner.
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