I want to sell my car-Blue book values?

Question

I've done all the research-my car is in very good condition with mileage at the average/year and a documented paper trail. Should I start with an asking price at Blue book "good"? I noticed local dealers are asking 3K above book value (even for retail) on the same cars that have more miles on them.

Answer 1

In todays economic climate some cars will sell for above "blue book" value and some below. What I mean is with staggering gas prices large suv's and trucks are selling for comparatively low numbers and economy cars are selling for astoundingly high prices compared to a couple of years ago. These figures can all vary by region and even city. It would be a good idea to check to see what similar cars in your region have sold for through sources like ebay etc. That gives you an idea of the true market in your area.

Answer 2

There is a huge variance in selling prices on similar cars.  In the past, I've priced my cars slightly above the mid-point between high retail and wholesale.  For example if trade is $8k and full retail is $11k, I price about $9,800 and will settle for $9,500.  This gives me an attractive initial price point as well as a bit of room to negotiate.  Few dealers ever get full book for a vehicle unless the buyer is dumb as a door k**b!  As a final note, make sure your car doesn't have problems and has been detailed.  Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Kelley Blue Book has 3 values as Trade in, Private Party and Retail. I am pretty sure you can sell in Blue Book Trade in value as "Good" condition... You won't get the "Retail" value as you are not providing after-sell service, and if someone can buy the same car with same price, why will someone buy from you instead of the dealer? You need to price lower than dealer.

- You should use autotrader.com to find out what is the lowest price around your home area for the same/comparible car - it helps if you actually pretending to be a buyer to take a look on the condition of the car as a buyer. Price a little bit lower or similar price as the dealer. (Dealer may also expect to get about a 10% negotiate room..)

- Expect something about the price of kbb.com private party price.

Answer 4

dealers always will and can ask more for thier cars because they inspect and take care of them before sold, and also offer other services like financing, or adding things to the car.

I private seller sells the car as is, no one checked it out, the car isnt backed in any way.

Now even though you may have taken pefect care of your car and been the best owner in the world the person buying the car doesnt know that, so you cant sell it for what dealers are asking. I would say starting at $3k below what dealers are asking for similar cars is a good starting point if your car is in very good shape.