What do I say to a guy interested in buying my car...?

Question

I have had about 10 people come to see my car and at least 7 of them have asked me what my lowest price is...this seems like a very poor negotiating tactic and every time it has happened, I have countered by asking them to just make an offer. Then they just walk away muttering something about "I have to think about it..." Any advice? Thanks!

Answer 1

I take it you have a figure in mind that you want for the car. As a first step add a few hundred quid on to that to give yourself some room to manoeuvre.

I think your bottom line figure should only be movable if you want a quick sale. If you are prepared to wait, then I wouldn't budge on that figure.

Most serious buyers will have a good idea of the going rate for a car these days. Which makes me think your potential buyers weren't that serious.



Once you have got someone who you think is interested, usually on their second viewing but with who you cannot agree a price, you could try this.

(I know this isn't very ethical and it can be a bit risky as you could lose the buyer)

I've had a friend turn up pretending to be another interested buyer (well, the buyer was playing hardball to an all new level)

The only figure mentioned ( to my friend) was my top selling price. He took the car for a "test drive" and came back saying he was very interested and that he would be in touch, all while the first buyer was trying to beat me down on the price. (even consider having someone phone you asking if the car is still available)

Looking back, this only really worked because he really wanted the car..... he just needed a little push to part with his money.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Don't lower your price. If you're asking a fair price, there's no reason to be guilted into anything else. These people are too cheap to PAY a fair price.

Answer 3

ask for more than you're willing to sell for and go from there

Answer 4

These people have a valid question, albeit a not very good way to phrase it.  You asking them to just make an offer is not a very good sales/negotiating tactic either.

You will have more offers if you put a starting point out there for the negotiators to start at.  Take whatever you want to get for it, add 10%, and advertise that amount or best offer.  

Those guys will start contacting you with offers at that point - usually a little lower than their max price.  If you aren't in a hurry, sit on it for a couple days and they may call back with something better.