There comes a time when you’ll want a change; the opportunity to drive a vehicle that will excite you every time you get behind the wheel.
But for most, in order to purchase your dream vehicle, you need to sell your existing car. Sometimes the selling process can be drawn-out, which is why we’ve compiled this guide you on how to offload your car for cash in order to buy a new vehicle.
Make sure you do the following:
- Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready, as you want to make the selling process as smooth as possible.
- Take the car for a professional inspection and attend to any issues that might prevent a sale, or which will force you to drop your asking price.
- Take your vehicle to the car wash and clean the interior and exterior. It may increase the resale value if it looks like the vehicle has been well cared for.
- Clear out any personal belongings – you want to make sure the potential buyer can envisage themselves owning it.
- Take good quality pictures of the vehicle for advertising purposes.
Once it is in tip-top condition, you have five ways to sell your car in South Africa. These include:
Go online
The first place to try, if you are planning on selling a car privately, is online. Many South Africans browse the internet, looking for a vehicle to buy. And you can attract potential buyers by posting good-quality photos of your vehicle. The description you post alongside the photos needs to entice someone to make contact. Keep in mind that the digital space is competitive: there will always be a newer model for sale at a better price, so you need to tell people exactly why YOURS is the perfect vehicle for them. If you struggle with writing, ask someone to help you or get a proofreader. You can also attract buyers with a catchy heading. Make sure you keep your safety in mind and beware of scammers. As much as it has its pros, online selling could possibly expose you to scammers and timewasters.
Consider selling it yourself
When selling a used car privately you will have to work hard on marketing. And there is an advantage to selling it yourself. You can use your own social media to reach a wider audience simply by using hashtags, social post boosting and joining second-hand sales groups. To expand your reach, ask your friends and family to share it on their social accounts too.
Take it to a dealership
If you aren’t interested in the hard work involved in a private sale, take your car to a dealership. This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to sell your vehicle as dealers are always on the lookout for new stock. However, it does have a downside.You may get less than your asking price as the dealership’s aim is to buy at as low a price as possible in order to make a profit on the resale. If you do decide to sell at a dealership, shop around first and see how much you are offered before committing.
Auction it off
This one may take you by surprise as car auctions are mostly associated with repossessed vehicles. While that is true, you can also use it as a way to sell your car quickly. There are many car auctions in Johannesburg and other areas where you can get your vehicle sold in a relatively short space of time. But, considering that auctioneers charge a fee, you may not get your asking price. If you’re in need of money and are simply looking for a transparent, fast and safe way to sell your car, then an auction is an ideal alternative.
Trade it in
If you’re interested in purchasing a new vehicle, then a trade-in can be a good alternative to selling. A trade-in helps reduce the sum you need to pay for your new vehicle, while also avoiding the hassle of needing to sell your current vehicle. The amount that you’ll receive from your trade-in depends on the value of your car and if the dealership you’re trading with has a similar vehicle on offer. Additional things that might work in your favour include the condition of your car, and whether the dealership will need to carry out any repairs or replace any parts.
Final thoughts
Selling a car is not half as much fun as purchasing a new vehicle. Being on the other side of a car purchase can be tiring, but fortunately, the internet has made it easier and it is always a great place to start. Additionally, trading in, going to a dealership or an auction house is just as good if not easier than online. So, make sure you research your market and have an idea of how much you would like to sell for. Also, keep in mind that there are many people looking for a vehicle, and if you are patient, there will always be someone willing to buy at your asking price.
