The value of your car is often wrong
It’s the time of year when a lot of car owners decide that it might be time for a change, and so you’ll want to sell your car, whether that’s a trade-in or a straight sale. There are a few things you should consider before you post that trade ad.
Rarely is your car worth what you think it is. I know some feelings will be hurt here, but it’s true, the amount of dreamers out there who think a car is worth thousands more than anyone will pay is incredible. I know it’s your precious one, but all those little dings, scratches, and weird smells from the boot add up in terms of money, so do servicing and the NCT. It’s fine to have a prince in your head, but just remember, a car is only worth what someone will pay for it.
You might be surprised how many people have a car for sale and don’t know where the ownership documents are, and have no idea how to change ownership after the sale! If you don’t change ownership, then you will get any parking fines, tax bills, and NCT reminders. Make sure you have the ownership and change of owner documents to hand when selling.
Selling to retail is not the same as selling to a seller; if you are selling the car to someone who is selling it on, then you must expect that they will want to make money in the deal and have enough for repairs and servicing. A set of tyres might be 500 euro plus! Sometimes you might feel that the offer from the trade feels low, and that’s because of costs. It can be quite different when you are selling it straight to someone who loves it; they might pay more because they are keeping it.
It’s all worth bearing in mind, especially if on this very site you put your registration number in for a valuation, hoping that your car will be a classic someday, it isn’t always good for profit!
