Tips for Selling a Car Privately

The following tips let you in on how to make selling your car as easy as possible and how to get the price you want.

1. Advertising. The majority of people now do their car researching online so it's worthwhile to advertise in this space. www.carsales.com.au is a good start. Alternatively, you can advertise it in the major daily newspapers or your local paper. Provide as much information as possible to avoid unnecessary enquiries.

Valuable information includes:

1. Model

2. Make

3. Year of manufacture

4. Kilometres

5. Registration (compulsory in some states)

6. Colour

7. Price

8. Contact details

9. Non standard features eg allow wheels, sunroof, upgraded sound system etc

2. Appearance. The newer your car looks, the more attractive it can be to buyers. Give it a thorough clean inside and out. Get into all of the nooks and crannies including the engine bay, boot and door openings. Give the car a good airing to get rid of any odours, but avoid any strong car deodoriser smells. Some car cleaning companies will come to your home and provide a full detail from as little as $169 for sedans. It may also be worthwhile removing any dents and fixing the paint work. Also, take out all personal items. This will make the car appear cleaner and help the new owner to visualise their personal belongings in there.

3. Service record. People like to know that the car has been serviced regularly at a reputable service centre. Make sure you keep thorough records and let people know that this information is available.

4. Registration Papers. Have these on hand to assure potential buyers that you own the vehicle.

5. Know your bottom price. People will always negotiate with you. Make sure you know the lowest price you are willing to accept before a potential buyer sees your car.

6. Test drive. Check that the potential buyer has a valid driver's licence before allowing them to drive your car. Make sure you (or a friend) go with them for their test drive. If you can smell alcohol on their breath, suggest they come back later if they want a test drive.

7. Payment. When you agree on a price, take a deposit and provide the potential buyer with a time frame to provide the remainder of the money. Always take cash or a bank cheque.