You are here : > > Before you Advertise your Car > Setting a Price for your Car
Setting a Price for your Car
If you get the price wrong, you'll either have your car on your hands for weeks, or be taken for a mug…neither is desirable, or necessary.
A little research will see you easily get the true market value for your car.
Price Guides
Nowadays, there are plenty available, either as separate books or incorporated into magazines. However, the most comprehensive source of used prices is Auto Trader web site - and it's completely free of charge, too!
But remember they are only a guide. You'll be offered several prices, for differing conditions of car, with registration letters and model years both being listed. A suggested mileage is also given. However, there are many more variables over and above those covered by price guides, meaning 'exact book price' sales are rare.
Consider any options your car has; is it a rare model or one in particular demand? Is the colour is a desirable one? Are there any other considerations that could affect your price e.g. low mileage, a sought-after special edition or a particularly generous specification. You may want to consider preparing your car for sale before selling, to maximise its price.
Classified advertisements
A look through Auto Trader's classified ads will usually help you set the price of your car. Look for models similar to yours, and see what the 'going rate' is; you can then price your car accordingly!
This works especially well for popular models, because there's so much choice. It's also a good trick for rarer or older models, as they may not actually be listed in price guides.
Owners clubs
Some owners clubs offer valuation services. You may have to pay - or join the club - but this will probably be more accurate than other methods, because of the breadth of knowledge available. Enthusiasts know your car better than you do, and can account for any extras, as well as the overall condition and mileage.
Trade-ins
Visiting a car dealer will give you an idea of your car's trade-in value; anything you get over and above that will thus be a profit. Don't, however, look at dealer forecourt stock and expect to get similar prices for your car; you're not offering a warranty or any guarantees, remember, and therefore should charge a lot less. Some manufacturer web-sites also offer on-line trade price valuations, and can be another source of guidance for trade-in values.
Related Articles
- Wording your advert
- Dealing with car buyers
- Preparing your car for sale
- Sell safe
- More selling advice…
Buying Advice
.gif "A helping hand through the maze of motoring options")
