NAVIGATION
Introduction
Step 1: Know the Market
Step 2: Price Your Car Competitively
Step 3: Give Your Car "Curb Appeal"
Step 4: Where to Advertise Your Car
Step 5: Create Ads That Sell
Step 6: Showing Your Car
Step 7: Negotiate For Your Best Price
Step 8: Handling Complications
Step 9: Finalize the Sale
Step 10: After the Sale
Checklist

PHOTOS
For Sale
(Enlarge photo)
Put a "for sale" sign in your window and turn your used car into a rolling advertisement. This also avoids the cost of paying for newspaper classifieds.


Selling Tips

10 Steps to Selling Your Car
Step 4: Where to Advertise Your Car
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor
Email

Now that your car is looking great and running well, it's time to advertise it for sale. Traditionally, people advertise in newspaper classified ads. These ads can be expensive, but they get results. On-line classified ads, such as the Edmunds.com Used Vehicle Locator, are becoming increasingly popular. On-line ads are particularly effective with hard-to-find or collector cars. In most cases, on-line classifieds reach a geographically wider area of buyers.

Here are the main markets for advertising used cars:

  • On-line classified ads such as those on Edmunds.com

  • Daily newspaper classified ads

  • Weekly "shoppers" and giveaway newspapers

  • Bulletin boards at your office, a local supermarket or a college campus

  • Word of mouth — tell your friends and family you have a car for sale

  • Put a "For Sale" sign in the car window
Creativity is required when it comes to advertising. Think of unusual places to put ads (skywriting is probably too expensive), and you will get results.

One last word of advice about advertising: if you run an expensive classified ad, be sure you are available to take phone calls from possible buyers. Many people won't leave a message for a return call. So answer the phone — and be polite. Creating a good first impression is the first step to getting buyers to come and see the car in person.

previous | next


Advertisement

Advertisement



    More Selling Articles

10 Steps to Selling Your Car
Turn your used car into cash by following these 10 simple steps to advertising, showing and selling your car.

Trading In Your Used Car
Are you thinking of trading in the next time you buy a new car? This is what the dealers will be looking at as they come up with a price for your trade-in.

Edmunds.com's Quick Guide to Selling Your Car
Selling your car today is a different experience than it was just 10 years ago, thanks to the tools available on the Internet.

Buying and Selling Cars on eBay
Buying a car on eBay Motors can save you money and be a pleasant experience — if you follow our tips and advice.