Selling cars through traditional methods can be costly and time-consuming. Auctions can save you both, and they’re also a safer option.
- Make it attractive
You can try everything you want to sell your car quickly and easily at an auction – dropping the reserve price, adding an extended warranty, or cleaning it up – but if the vehicle isn’t enticing enough, then you’ll never see any bidding. Luckily, you can fix this problem by doing some research beforehand to see what makes your vehicle attractive to buyers.
The first thing you need to do is take some good pictures of your car. While it may seem obvious, most people don’t realize that photos are one of the most important factors in attracting bids. You should also make sure that your car is in good condition and free of any major issues. It’s a good idea to have it washed before taking pictures, and you should also try to capture the car at its best – this means shooting during the “golden hour” (right after sunrise or just before sunset).
During the online auction itself, be sure to keep up with the bidding. You can do this by either monitoring the auction site or using a mobile app. This will help you avoid missing out on a good deal or falling victim to a swindle. Also, promptly respond to any questions that buyers may have. This will put them at ease and encourage them to make higher bids.
If you’re new to the auction process, finding out what similar cars have sold for in recent years can be helpful. You can then use this information to set a realistic price for your vehicle. Choosing a reputable auction company with experience selling your type of car is also important.
- Take a lot of pictures
When it comes to selling cars, pictures can make or break your auction listing. It’s worth investing in a decent camera, or even hiring a professional photographer, to ensure you get the best possible shots. Start by taking photos of the car from all angles, including the front, back, and profile. Then, take some close-up shots of the interior and exterior. Finally, shoot some photos of the trunk and engine (if applicable).
Be sure to take photos of any flaws as well. Potential buyers want to be able to understand what they’re bidding on, and poor photos can make it difficult for them to determine whether or not the vehicle is right for them. It’s also important to choose the right location to photograph the car. A too-busy background can distract from the car itself, so find a spot with a clean and neutral backdrop. Additionally, try to shoot your photos during the “golden hour” before sunset to avoid harsh shadows.
Once you’ve got your photos, it’s time to put them in your auction listing. Be sure to include lots of them – online shoppers are more likely to make an offer on a car they’ve seen multiple photos of. In addition, be sure to add some detail shots, such as a close-up of the steering wheel or tires. Also, don’t forget to include a photo of the car’s VIN, which will help prevent any fraud.
- Be honest
You need to be honest with your potential buyers. It is important to let them know the true condition of your car and any damage it may have suffered in the past. This will help you avoid any problems down the road and ensure that you get the best possible price for your vehicle.
It is a good idea to remove any personal touches you have added to the vehicle and to clean it thoroughly. This will make the car look more neutral and help attract more buyers. You should also take some time to write a compelling description of your car. The year, make and model, mileage, transmission type, body style/category, trim package, and VIN should be included. It should also mention any recent work that has been done to the car.
If you are selling your car to a friend, be sure to discuss how you plan to handle payment. It is customary to be paid in cash or with a cashier’s check at the time of sale, but many people agree to accept payments over time. This can lead to a lot of problems down the road, so it is always best to be upfront with your friends about this.
Another thing to keep in mind when selling a car to a friend is that you will need to provide a bill of sale and a release of liability. This will help protect you if the buyer gets into an accident or is cited for a parking ticket after you sell them your car. Be sure to have these documents ready before you start talking with potential buyers. This will save you a lot of time and hassle down the road.
- Set a realistic price
If you’re selling your car at an auction, setting a realistic price is important. You don’t want to over-price your vehicle, as it will turn off potential buyers and slow down the sale process. A good way to determine a fair price for your car is to check its value on sites like Kelley Blue Book or Car and Driver. You can also look at similar cars on the market in your area to see how much they’re selling for. Keep in mind that things like worn-out tires or other mechanical issues will impact the price of your vehicle.
Once you’ve determined a fair price for your vehicle, make sure to include that information in your ad. You should also be aware of any special features or options that your vehicle has, as these can increase its value. Finally, take your car to a bank to verify it as cash before handing it over to the buyer. This will prevent you from falling victim to a common scam that involves someone signing over a check for more than the asking price of your vehicle and then disappearing with the money before you can stop them.
Once the bidding starts, you’ll have to keep in mind that it’s likely to go up quickly. Try to establish a budget and stick with it, as this will help you avoid going overboard in the excitement of a bidding war. You can even use psychological tactics that car dealers employ, such as ending your price in “9” to encourage bidders to keep bidding. Remember, however, that you won’t be able to control the high the final offer is.
- Have a plan
Regardless of whether you’re selling your classic car at an online auction or a physical one, you need a plan. Figure out the resale value of your vehicle, choose an auction site, and prepare to list it. Research the rules of the auction and see what kind of vehicles typically sell there. This way, you’ll be more familiar with the process and be able to make the best decisions about how much to ask for your vehicle.
It’s also important to know the car’s history and any maintenance it has received. This will help you answer potential buyers’ questions about the vehicle and encourage them to bid higher. In addition, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your car doesn’t sell at the auction. For example, if you’re selling a Porsche that has had IMS problems, consider addressing those issues before listing the vehicle.
The auction itself may last a few hours or several days. During that time, keeping an eye on the bidding is crucial. A bidding war may ensue if you have a lot of interest in your vehicle. This is when you should have a budget in mind and stick to it.
Online car auctions can be a great way to sell your classic car quickly and easily. By following these tips, you can ensure that your vehicle will attract the right buyers and get you the most money possible. If you’re unsure how to do this, consider hiring a professional to handle the entire process. They will take care of everything from the photography and text description to interacting with bidders.
