You’ve heard the saying, ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. The opposite is true when it comes to selling your car.
This is a situation where first impressions count. Your car could be in beautiful running condition, but if it’s covered in scratches and dents, you’re likely to be negotiated down to a lower selling price. Not only will a future owner be deterred from buying a car that looks worn, but they’ll also assume the outside is how you’ve treated the inside of the car too.
After all, would you pay top dollar for a car that hasn’t been maintained?
If you’re in the market to sell your car, there are several small steps you can take to ensure it’s looking its best – and that you get the selling price you want.
Give it a clean
It sounds simple but you’d be surprised how many people don’t give their car a thorough clean before listing it for sale. While you might be lucky enough to find a seller who can spot a gem beneath the dirt, many buyers will be turned off by a car that hasn’t been given any TLC – and will suspect it mirrors the running condition of the car too.
Our advice? Pick up a bucket, sponge and some car cleaner and get to work! For tips on cleaning your vehicle the right way – and getting an immaculate showroom finish – read more here.
Check for scratches and dents
The quickest way to lose value on your car? Leave it covered in scrapes or dents.
Stone chips, paint scratches and dents all detract from a car’s appeal, yet owners often don’t address these ahead of sale because they worry about the expense. We certainly don’t suggest fixing bumper and scratches yourself – often DIY repairs end up costing even more to fix – but we do advise having these minor cosmetic issues repaired if you want the best possible sales price.
Car bumper and scratch repairs are often less expensive than you would think, especially if you engage a mobile repair service such as Bumpertek to do the work. By coming to you, mobile bumper and scratch repairers ensure your repair is completed in a matter of hours rather than having your car left for days at a panel beater or shop.
Check your mags
Even if you’ve washed your car and checked for dents, scratched mag or alloy wheels can undermine all your hard work and decrease the value of your car. An eagle-eyed buyer will look specifically in these areas to look for scrapes – and gauge what kind of damage may be hidden elsewhere.
Ensuring your mag wheels have been repaired is critical to getting the price you want for your car.
Because when it comes down to it – a little effort goes a long way. Mag wheel, car paint and car bumper repairs can all help increase the value of your car. And every little bit helps towards buying your new vehicle!