Selling a vehicle to an individual using classified advertising on the internet

Using online classified spaces to sell a vehicle is not just cost effective, it’s smart. There are plenty of online portals that offer free listings but private sales come with their own set of rules and things to watch out for. Advertising a car can only happen after the car has been evaluated. And selling online can be just as vulnerable to scams as buying.

How to Sell a Car Online

Begin by getting a professional evaluation of the car – that is to say, determine its market value. Next, decide whether to advertise the car nationally or locally. Often, sellers think that selling a vehicle can be done faster if both options are used but this means it’s up to the seller to field all inquiries coming in, respond and follow up. For selling a vehicle, use websites like Craigslist or Kelley Blue Book, which have vehicle pricing guides. The photos and description that make up the ad should be the space where sellers draw buyers in with details of the car as well as good photos. Photos should be upfront and honest, showing the odometer reading as well as any “surface” or visible damage.

Red Flags to Watch Out for When Selling a Vehicle Online

Scams are not uncommon – especially on big-ticket items like cars. Selling a vehicle online can open consumers up to a world of risks, especially if they proceed unaware. Small charges such as “security deposits” can be used as a means of luring buyers in. To demonstrate trustworthiness when selling a vehicle, sellers should do the following: respond within 24 to 48 hours, get the buyer’s full name and contact information, emphasize the key selling points and welcome them for a test drive. Meet with the individual in person to complete the paperwork and transaction. Sellers should never offer to transfer ownership or release their vehicle unless they’ve received the cash in full. Cheques don’t require banking or credit card information so if a seller is being asked for these by a potential “buyer”, know that this is a scam.

At the end of the day, consumers – both buyers and sellers – must understand the risks associated with selling and buying a car online. Online transactions on vetted websites come with a modicum of protection as the website takes responsibility for protecting shoppers from fraudulent scams. However, Internet car sales are largely unregulated, so proceed with caution.