When Selling a Car, Plan for Success

Whether it’s choosing a career or selling a car, a plan is essential. You could trade an automobile to a dealership. It works well for a lot of people. There is another alternative, though. Selling a car by owner is an interesting way to get more money out of your trade but the effort starts now. Meaning, hold on to all those service records! If you have detailed maintenance records on your car, that can really make a difference. Also, know what the car is worth. At the library, you’ll find detailed NADA car listings which should give you some idea of the vehicle’s worth. Also, use the free ads and don’t be afraid to spend a little money on a classified ad in the newspaper. People make a big deal about Craig’s List but the goal is to sell your car, not to save $40. If Craig’s List isn’t working, an ad in the newspaper can really draw attention to your vehicle. If you sell the car fast, the $40 is money well spent. Consider the difference between what a private seller will fetch for a used car and the value of a vehicle trade-in. Unless your car’s on its last legs, the incentive to sell it on your own is not insignificant. The thing is that much like car sellers, not every car buyer is honest. There are things to consider. People get cold feet. Others may ask you to ship the car overseas. What out on that last one! Use your better judgment. If it’s a local deal, you will avoid a bulk of the scams out there.

Also, there are books at the library highlighting how to sell your car. Remember, it starts with collecting saving those service records or even doing it yourself with Chilton’s or Mitchell’s online. You can always hold on to the receipts for the synthetic oil from the auto parts store. Think of automotive service this way –at resale time, those records could help you get more money for the car. While automobiles are a depreciating asset, taking care of vehicle does add value. If you intend to drive your car into the ground, none of this matters much. Still, it could take much longer for the car to finally reach its resting place.

In June, we continue with another presentation on becoming an Emergency Medical Technician at Kansas City, Kansas Public Library. Learn about ways to locate employment in this emerging healthcare area with a guest speaker from Kansas City, Kansas Community College. This presentation will take place on June 22 from 6:30-7:30 pm in the second floor auditorium at the Main Library. We’re located on 625 Minnesota Ave. Until next time, catch me in the library.