There are a number of things you can do to make sure your car has a decent resale value. Some things that can be done during the course of ownership and a few things close to selling.
So let’s discuss Chaiz’s tips on how to increase the resale value of your car.
Tips for While You Still Own the Car
It is well known that cars depreciate once you have driven it off the lot. And yes, for the most part this is true. There are certainly less cars that appreciate in value over time than there are cars that will depreciate. In general cars depreciate because of the wear and tear they endure over the years. Taking care of your vehicle in the right way will help to keep the resale value up and ensure a smooth sale as all will be in order. Either way, even if you do not land up selling it is still a good idea to keep your car in good running condition.
1. Frequent Cleaning
Get your car washed once to twice a month at the very least. If your car does get very dirty then certainly more often. Frequent cleaning will give you the opportunity to find minor scuffs or chips in the paint and or on the plastic trim. Catching these problems early on means that you can make the necessary repairs before it becomes a major problem.
2. Regular Detailing
At least once a year take your car to a professional car detailer. Even if you drive something as average as a Ford Focus. They have equipment, skills, and knowledge that will surpass you and the average car wash. They will get into all the nooks and crannies that will have been missed throughout the year. Again, here you will come across any minor issues you can repair before they become a mission. Plus the car will be kept very clean all over, from the engine bay to the tires. The car will also get a protective coat that gives you longevity and preserves the car’s value.
3. Routine Maintenance
Though it might feel like a bit of a chore, it is hugely important to take your car in for the routine maintenance it very much will need. Routine maintenance is done to make sure that all the parts of your engine are working properly and that the parts that need to be replaced are in a timely fashion. A car that is working well with a service history ensures a higher value at resale.
4. Car Warranty
When purchasing a new vehicle you will get a factory warranty for your car. Selling your car while it is still under factory warranty will ensure that you maintain a high resale value. If your car is out of warranty then the factory extended warranty or a vehicle service contract that covers you in the event of a mechanical failure. This vehicle protection will maintain a high resale value of your car.
5. Ensure All Repairs Are Done
Whenever you notice that something needs to be attended to in your car, do not wait. A small scratch or little bit of pitting can lead to more serious issues that will require more money and time to fix. Take your car in whenever you feel that it might be driving differently or exterior and interior issues.
Tips for When You are About to Sell the Car
Now that you are in the process of selling your car there are a few things to do to make a good first impression on potential buyers. Aside from keeping the car in a good condition while in use, you also want to make sure it looks good on the big day.
1. Scheduled Maintenance is up to Date
If you are just about due for scheduled maintenance then get it done before selling the car. Make an appointment before letting potential buyers see the car. This way you will have up to date services for the best resale value.
2. One Last Detailing Session
Make sure the car looks good for the day of sale. A better looking and smelling car gives a good impression and lets the potential buyer know that you have taken care of the car.
3. Get the Paperwork in Order
Make sure that you have all the necessary paperwork ready to go on the day of sale. This will ensure that you have a full service history and documentation that reaffirms that you have taken care of the car.
4. Have Your Car Appraised
Have a car expert see the car in-person to appraise the vehicle. This is a good way of ensuring that you will get the price that you would like to see at.
Selling Your Car
Now that you are ready to sell your car you will want to be sure to choose the right avenue. A private sale can be profitable and in some ways be less of a task than using a dealer. We urge you to look at what options are out there for you. A private sale has other downsides which may include you being left without the money and the car. A dealership or some other form of selling your car such as ebay could be beneficial in that you will get vetted buyers.
The biggest thing you can do to have a car with good resale value is simply to make sure that the car is taken care of inside and out. And as mentioned, even if you do not sell your car in the end, these tips go hand in hand with good car care. Your car will last many years and if the time ever did come around to sell, all would be in place for a higher resale value. These have been the tips on how to increase the resale value of your car. We hope that you were able to take away a few things from this that will ultimately improve your car selling and evening owning experience.
