How you sell a car depends on…

…What kind of car it is.  Different cars have different buyers, market expectations, sales strategies, supply, and demand.  Its good to be aware of some basic generalizations and how to apply them to your private party sale.

• Cheap to medium priced family sedans of all types and variations are the heart of the auto market.  These are the vehicles that sell the most and what most people tend to look for first when it comes to practical, reliable transportation.  You should emphasize practicality, economy, and reliability.  High MPG cars are in excellent demand at this time.
• Luxury vehicles sell regularly to people looking for good value on something more upscale.  Online advertising is especially important in this segment.  Always be ready to show a clean, well-kept vehicle to a wide variety of shoppers.  Some buyers will focus more on the service and repair history so have that documentation/information handy.
• Sports cars and convertibles tend to sell best when the weather is nice, plan accordingly for a spring or summer sale.  These vehicles will tend to be second/weekend vehicles.  Proof and perceptions that you babied the car will help the sales negotiations, modifications should be acknowledged but not emphasized.
• SUV’s are falling out of demand quickly due to rising fuel prices.  Unfortunately, this means you should lower your expectations on prices and sale times, but sales are possible and likely as there will always be buyers with a need for this type of vehicle.
• Pickup trucks, cargo vans, utility vehicles are very often used for work purposes.  Fuel prices may increase the cost of doing business, but the work still needs to get done.  Focus on individuals in the construction, delivery, installation businesses.