After owning a vehicle for 7 years, the average American is ready to make the switch to a new one. Out with the old, in with the new. But when you decide it’s time to sell your car, you’ll have to accept that there are countless avenues available — and some are better options than others.
The internet and private dealerships have forever changed the way car owners sell their old vehicles. And it’s a much more complicated decision than opting to perform a private sale or a trade-in. Thankfully, whatever you’re looking for in a car sale, you can probably find it if you know where to look.
Here are the 7 easiest ways to sell your car fast.
1. Trade-In
If you’re already planning on buying a new car after selling your current one, understanding a trade-in is an easy way to knock out two birds with one stone. Basically, you bring your old car to the dealership where they’ll appraise its value. And from there, they’ll make you an appropriate offer.
This isn’t a lump sum payment. Instead, based on the appraised price, your equity in the vehicle will go towards a down payment on a new car at that dealership.
Keep in mind that, while trade-ins are convenient for quickly upgrading to a new vehicle, the convenience comes with a price: You won’t get as much as you would by selling it through other mediums.
2. Sell Your Car to a Dealership
Don’t want to work with a trade-in? Sometimes a trade-in won’t net you as much money as simply selling the vehicle to a dealership instead. This may be the case where one dealership will pay you more to buy your vehicle and you can take that money to another to purchase a car of your choice.
Not to mention, maybe you want to sell your car without buying another right after. In which case, a trade-in isn’t an option. Just like with trade-ins, selling to a dealership won’t give you its full market value, but you can shop around for the best price for your car before making the sale.
3. Try a Private Sale
Are private sales fast or easy? Although they have a reputation for being more hands-on, you can enjoy a seamless car-selling experience if you find a buyer with the right mindset.
To advertise a private sale, rely on online websites such as Craigslist. You can also enjoy the old tactic of placing your vehicle in the front yard with a sale sign in full view.
However you aim for a private sale, note that you’ll be in charge of the entire process. You’ll have more control over the final sale price, but you’ll have to put in the legwork to enjoy it, too. In general, private buyers expect lower prices, so getting compensated for the actual worth of your car can be a headache.
4. Donate to a Non-Profit
Let’s say you’re more worried about getting rid of your vehicle than making a sale. Countless non-profit organizations will be happy to accept your car as a donation.
Why would you ever go through the effort of donating a car rather than trashing it? Well, donating your car is tax-deductible. It’s not going to be a massive financial boon at the end of the year, but it’s not a completely one-sided transaction.
Usually, the tax write-off is equal to the vehicle’s final auction price or $500 — whichever is greater.
5. Use an Online Car Platform
If dealerships aren’t your thing, online car selling platforms are always an option. Think of them as virtual dealerships.
Basically, you upload the information about your vehicle to one of these online platforms. They will review your car’s condition and market price and make you an offer. If you accept, the company will send a tow truck to your address, inspect your vehicle, and make the sale right then and there.
While there’s no arguing against the convenience of this option, online car platforms tend to pay even less than private dealerships.
6. Rely on Word-of-Mouth
Don’t want to advertise your vehicle online? You can still snag a private sale by flexing your personal network. The power of word-of-mouth cannot be understated.
Help your car sell itself with a for-sale sign in the window. And don’t be afraid to ask your friends and co-workers if they’re currently in the market for a vehicle.
The reason you may want to make a private sale through word-of-mouth is you’ll find a safe, reliable buyer for your car without working up a sweat. Just be prepared to offer a friendly discount.
7. Sell for Scraps
If your car is in terrible shape, it may be difficult to find a private buyer or sell the vehicle to a dealership. The good news is you’re not out of luck.
Junk removal services will be happy to purchase your car whether or not it’s road safe. You can expect a few hundred dollars in compensation for most vehicles. But in the worst cases, these junk services may only be willing to tow your car for free.
Only you can know if scrapping your car is the best choice. Usually, this is the nuclear option when all other avenues are no longer available.
Sell Your Car Quickly
With so many ways to sell your car, deciding on the right course of action can be a stressful experience. But at Monster Cars, we try our best to promote a transparent, frictionless transaction.
Contact us at Monster Cars and enjoy a free car appraisal with no strings attached. If you’re happy with our offer, we’ll pay you in cash as soon as you hand us the keys.
