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There has never been a better time to get that car you have always dreamed of or simply upgrade to that new car you really need. Dealers are struggling at the moment to shift stock so as a buyer you are in a strong position to negotiate and obtain discounts which 6 months ago would not have been available.

The only problem maybe trying to sell your current car! There has been a downward market adjustment recently and today almost all used cars are worth anywhere from 10% to 30% less than owners would normally expect. Do you except a part exchange offer? What do you do if the garage is not accepting your car in part exchange? How do you sell it privately? Are there any other options?

This article is a short guide to selling your car. It highlights some points to think about, how to obtain the best price and importantly ensure you are getting the best deal available.

What is it worth?

Be realistic. Check the market. Rather than just using price guides look to see what
similar vehicles are being advertised for and ask your local dealer. Look at autotrader.co.uk or pistonheads.co.uk to asses the prices (bear in mind that trade prices may be 10% to 30% less). Even if the part exchange figure seems too low consider the below points and what it may cost you to find a buyer yourself.

Vehicle Condition

It needs to be immaculate. Spend a bit of time getting the car valeted (inside and out),
remove all personal items and if need be get alloy wheels touched up and any scuffs or dents repaired. There will be a mobile wheel and dent company that will come to you
and are usually good value.

Service

If the car is due a service, get it done. Buyers don't like uncertainty and if just serviced it gives them more confidence. Ensure the service book is fully stamped up.

MOT & Tax

If your car is more than 3 years old check your MOT is still valid (they don't send a reminder!). A long MOT and at least 6 months tax left on the car are good selling points.

Documentation

Ensure you have all the keys, the V5 registration document, service book, MOT and any service receipts or additional paperwork. The more information and history you can keep the better. If you have a personal number plate put it on ‘retention' from the DVLA and put on the replacement plates before you sell the car.

Where to advertise?

Internet. Best place is autotrader.co.uk. Look to see what similar cars are being
advertised for. Remember the actual sale price may be quite a bit lower than the advertised price! Local papers and magazines are also good but don't get the specific
viewers that motoring websites do.

Photographs

Ensure the car is clean and take a number of good photos from all angles. Include the interior. Make the car stand out and be honest with your description.

Viewing / Test Driving

Use common sense. For a private sale you ideally should get potential buyers to come
to your home during the day when someone else is around. Only meet somewhere neutral when you are confident they are serious. Keep hold of keys at all times and remember
to check they are fully insured to drive your car.

How to pay?

Once a private sale is agreed ideally you should take a small deposit and arrange for the balance to be electronically sent direct to your bank account (ask for BACS or CHAPS payment). This way you can see the funds cleared before you hand the keys over. A signed banker's draft (cheque from the bank) is also acceptable but it will take a few days to clear and beware of forgeries. For large sums cash is best avoided.

DVLA

The car is legally still in your name until the DVLA receive the V5 registration form with the new owners details. Make sure both of you sign it and it is the seller's responsibility to post it. The new owner simply keeps the small green section as temporary proof until they receive the new V5.

Use a dealer / broker

You can always ask a dealer or broker to take this hassle and stress away and sell the car on your behalf. For a fee they should get you more than the part exchange price.