Whether you’ve decided to sell your car independently or through a dealership, it’s important to be prepared. You want to get the most out of your vehicle to put towards the next, which means it should be in good condition inside and out. Take a look at your vehicle as if you were the buyer. What do you notice first? As you’re getting ready to sell, here are some more tips to help.

 

Assemble paperwork

 

No matter the selling route you take, you will need to gather all relevant documentation. The papers you’ll need vary on your state, but generally include the title, bill of sale, and odometer certification. Potential buyers may also want paperwork about the car’s current condition from a professional inspection. It can even help streamline the process so the buyer doesn’t have to get that inspection done themselves.

 

Clean it inside and out

 

Even when buying a used car, drivers want to get into the car and feel like it’s new. A good cleaning of the interior and exterior will help. There are businesses that specialize in this service, but you can always take care of it yourself. Focus on taking out trash, vacuuming, wiping down the dash, and removing seat stains. Scent also helps it feel clean. Finish off this step with a clean, fresh spray in the cabin.

 

Routine maintenance

 

When you get an inspection, let the mechanic know you’re looking to sell. They can help you figure out the best repairs to make that will add value. Hopefully, investing in those maintenance tasks will allow you to increase the price enough that you get more out of it. A used car doesn’t have to be perfect, but one with a large amount of repair needs will be harder to sell.

 

Repairs to enhance appeal

 

First impressions also matter for your vehicle. Smaller bodywork issues such as door dings, scrapes, scratches, and dents can bring the price down. At first glance, buyers don’t want to see all the money they’ll have to invest in the car. Try to get the majority of smaller damages repaired and keep it below 10% of the car’s value.

 

When dealing with auto body damage, you’ll need expert repair to bring up the value of your vehicle. Superior Collision Center has a location in Eagan, MN and handles damages from big to small.