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ADVICE FOR ADVERTISERS

The Car sales market is extremely competitive. Despite the fact that your advert will be available for millions of people to see, an unrealistic price will prevent it selling - there are a lot of cars for sale out there, and the car buying public have a pretty good idea of what they are worth. Some models sell easily, many not so easily, small economical cars are likely to sell before the large less economical models, while of course small automatic transmission cars are usually good sellers. Other factors such as specification eg: whether or not the car has air conditioning, or leather upholstery, its colour, mileage, service history, length of MoT certificate, as well as condition of bodywork, interior and tyres are all going to effect the resale value of your car. If your car has body damage, expect to price it accordingly - its no good kidding yourself - think what you would want to pay for the car. Remember that private sale prices are often lower (not always!) than dealers prices, and do not set an asking price way too high thinking you can always accept a lower offer - you will deter most people from even contacting you. Start out asking a realistic price - price is a huge attraction! Your selling into a very competitive market place, price accordingly, and hopefully you can look forward to a quick sale.

When wording your advert, include a full description. Remember that 'Immaculate Metallic Sapphire Blue' sounds much better than just 'Blue' - your advert needs to make the car sound attractive to a prospective buyer!  If you are unfamiliar with used car advertising, look at some of the adverts on the BUYERS page to give you an idea of what is needed. Most magazine adverts only permit around 20 words, but your advert can be as much as 50 words, so you can be very descriptive and make your car sound an attractive proposition. 

DEALING FACE TO FACE - Do use common sense when showing your car to strangers, or inviting them into your house. If possible have another adult family member or friend with you. NEVER agree to meet someone at motorway services, or other meeting place. If they are interested they will come to you. Ensure they have the necessary insurance, and obviously accompany them if you are allowing a test drive. Ask for a reasonable deposit to confirm the agreed purchase, issue a receipt confirming the agreed price, showing the deposit paid and the balance to pay on collection. Do not accept an uncleared cheque from a stranger as payment for the car. If the balance is to be paid by bankers draft ask which bank it will be drawn on, so you can confirm that the draft will be genuine by phoning the bank - forged bank drafts are not unheard of. Most people are of course completely honest, otherwise none of us could do business, but being careful is essential in this day and age, and most buyers will respect you for it. The stranger who takes great offence when you decline his uncollaborated cheque is usually the one who has not got the funds to meet it

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