So, you have decided to sell your car privately after all.
This can be a good move as you stand make hundreds of dollars more off of a private sale than what you would get for a trade-in.
Your dealer needs to make money on your trade, but when you sell it privately you can split the difference with a buyer to allow both parties to come away a winner.
To get the most money for your car, the following steps should be taken.
1.
Ensure that it is mechanically sound.
Any buyer will inspect your car closely and wants your assurance that it is in top mechanical condition.
You may think that it is in top shape, but it wouldn't hurt to have your mechanic inspect it for you too.
It may need simple repairs such as new brake pads or a tune up, but if there are more extensive repairs needed, you will either have to get these done before you sell your car or adjust your price to reflect the outstanding repairs.
2.
Clean it out.
When you are ready to sell your car, remove everything that belongs to you.
The only items that should remain in place is your car registration and insurance information, and your owner's manual.
These should be placed in your glove box.
Comb through your car and empty every cupholder, storage unit and your hatch or trunk.
Keep the spare tire inside as well as the jack.
3.
Clean it up.
Now, take a vacuum and go through the interior and trunk, to remove dirt, debris and other stuff.
If your upholstery is stained, you can clean it with a spot remover.
If there are tears or holes, there is little you can do here unless you have spare material available.
Take a cloth and wipe down the inside of the windows, the dashboard and the instrument panel.
Use a non-abrasive surface cleaner and if leather is found inside, use the correct cleaner for that.
Pay close attention to knobs, switches and handles.
4.
Wash it down.
If you want your buyers to really swoon over your car, then you will need to employ detailing methods used by the professionals.
A microfiber cloth is a must to ensure that your paint is not scratched.
Wash, wax, polish and soap are cleaning materials you must have on hand.
Rinse your car off first, taking care to remove bird droppings, dirt build up and other noticeable signs of filth.
Then, wash the entire outside of the car from the roof down to the hood and trunk, and to the doors and along the bottom of the car.
Use your sponge in a circular motion and concentrate on those areas that are especially dirty.
Once your car is spotless, rinse it off and dry it with a chamois cloth.
Then polish and wax it to give it an exceptional look.
Don't forget to make the glass and trim look spotless.
And your tires too -- use a tire detailing spray and work diligently to make your wheels look sharp.
Cleaning Matters For a detailed look, use a q-tip to clean between air vents and to reach other tight spaces.
A soft toothbrush can handle exterior ornamentation and be used between grille vents.
Don't forget underneath the hood, using Simple Green or a citrus spray to loosen grease.
Take an old towel and wipe everything down.
If the interior smells musty, air it out.
And use a deodorizer to rid it of smells that won't go away.
With your car looking fantastic, you're ready to put it on the market.
Set your price at market value and allow for some negotiating room as well.