Is It Better to Sell a Car or Trade It In?
You’ve decided to part ways with your trusty four-wheeled companion. Maybe you’re trying to clear space in your garage, or you need a new set of wheels. Either way, you may be wondering if it’s better to sell a car or trade it in.
If this is the case, Ourisman Tri-State Ford can point you in the right direction so you can continue your adventures in Rising Sun, North East, and Havre de Grace, MD.
Trading Your Car In
Trading your car into a dealership is an attractive option for many drivers because of its simplicity. All you’ll need to do is go to the dealership, have your car appraised, negotiate an offer, and you’re done. If you’re trading a vehicle to use towards the down payment on a current car, you can use the offer you receive.
A significant advantage you’ll have when trading a car in, especially if it’s to our Ford dealer, is a value your trade tool. After you enter some basic information about the vehicle and provide pictures, you’ll receive an estimate. The dealership will handle the paperwork and advertising, so you’ll have less to do.
The downside to trading your car is that you’ll typically make less than you would if you sold it. If it’s in good condition, you should expect to be paid its wholesale value.
Selling Your Car
Selling your car will require more legwork, but the payoff can be more attractive for drivers. When you sell a vehicle, you’ll usually need to take care of advertising it, taking phone calls, and letting prospective buyers test-drive it. You might have more options when selling a car, as you can sell it to a dealership or a private buyer.
Like trading a car in, you’ll likely need to negotiate with the buyer. However, the chances you can get more for the car than you would if you traded it in are higher. You should reasonably expect to get an amount somewhere between the vehicle’s retail and wholesale values, but it’ll depend on the condition.
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How to Prepare Your Car for Sale or Trade
To get the highest value for your car, whether you sell or trade it, there are a few things you can do before you offload it.
Schedule Service
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First, take care of any maintenance needs. Simple services like oil changes and repairs can go a long way toward increasing its value.
Explore Detailing
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Detailing your car is another excellent idea, as it’ll look and smell like a new car, which is attractive to dealerships and private buyers.
Gather Paperwork
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Have a clean title handy, especially if you’re selling privately, as you’ll need it during the transfer process.
Selling or Trading My Car – Which Is Better for Me?
Selling or trading your car comes down to personal preference. If you want a quick solution, trading your car to a dealership is usually the way to go. If you want to get the most for your ride, selling it privately affords you more opportunity to reach that goal.
If you’re interested in trading or selling your car to Ourisman Tri-State Ford, contact us today. We can help you find a new set of wheels you’ll love to drive on the streets of Rising Sun, North East, and Elkton, MD.
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Hours
- Monday 9am-8pm
- Tuesday 9am-8pm
- Wednesday 9am-8pm
- Thursday 9am-8pm
- Friday 9am-8pm
- Saturday 9am-5pm
- Sunday Closed
Contact
Ourisman Tri-State Ford
1233 Telegraph Road
Rising Sun, MD 21911
- Sales: 410-658-4801
- Service: 410-658-4801
- Parts: 410-658-4801