This article is sponsored by cap hpi.
Get the most out of your used car with these tips
Planning on selling your car? This can be a stressful process, particularly if you haven’t done it before. But there are a few steps you can take to make it much easier. You will want to maximize the resale value of your car so that you can get as much money as possible while also making it appealing to buyers.
Fix those minor repairs
If there are any minor repairs that need to be done, you should get these completed prior to selling. Otherwise, it will put buyers off or allow them to negotiate a lower price. It can cost some money but you can usually recoup this in the added value that it will bring.
Do basic maintenance
Similarly, you should carry out basic maintenance on the car so that it’s in tip-top shape when a potential buyer examines it. This includes tasks like changing the oil, topping up fluids, changing the air filter, and making sure that there is a spare tire.
Give it a deep clean
It’s amazing how much of a difference a deep clean and wash can make for the appearance of your car, both inside and out. This is something that you can do yourself or you could pay a specialist if you’d prefer.
Provide documentation
It’s equally important that the car comes with the necessary documentation; this is something every buyer will enquire about. This includes the V5C logbook, MOT certificate, service history, owner’s manual, and any other documents that accompany the car.
Get a vehicle history report
Getting a vehicle history check completed to show to interested parties will help them see that the car has no hidden secrets. This is something that most potential buyers would get completed themselves, but it can save time if you already have this done and have evidence that there are no issues with the car you’re selling.
Complete a car valuation
It can be hard to know how much to ask for when selling a car, particularly when you consider that no two used cars are the same. The best solution is to get a car valuation carried out by a specialist and to show potential buyers that this is how you arrived at that figure. You may have to negotiate, but a valuation is a good and fair starting point.
Selling a car can be stressful, but it can be made much easier when you know what needs to be done and how you can maximize the resale value.
