Sell your car quickly through HeresACar, leveraging our extensive network of over 1500 verified dealers to secure the best offer for your vehicle.

It’s a fast and easy process that starts in seconds. 

Alternatively, selling privately is an option but may require more time and effort. While private sales often yield higher prices, they can be lengthy and frustrating, with no guarantee of success.

If you prefer to avoid car buying sites and companies, or simply want to sell your car privately, read on for our top tips.

Why should I sell my car privately?

This route can be stressful and time-consuming, unlike online car buying services that streamline the process.

However, private sales can yield higher prices for your vehicle.

In this guide, we detail essential considerations for successfully selling your car privately.

Is selling my car privately legal?

Before selling your car, it’s crucial to ensure you’re legally permitted to do so. Clear any outstanding finance, ensuring all paperwork is in order.

If settling finance post-sale, agree on a settlement figure with your provider beforehand.

Have essential documents ready, including the V5C registration certificate, manual, service book, and MOT certificate.

If any documents are lost, order replacements. Detailed information about required documents is provided here.

Get your car prepped

Ensuring your vehicle looks presentable is crucial before creating an advert. Give it a thorough wash, in and out, as well-cared-for cars tend to fetch higher prices. 

Though washing may seem tedious, it significantly enhances the car’s appeal.

Consider professional valeting for optimal results, easily found through a quick Google search for “car valet near me”

Where do I advertise my car?

Advertising your car privately requires selecting the right platform to make your ad stand out. While Auto Trader is a popular choice with 7 million monthly web visits, other options like eBay, Gumtree, motors.co.uk, and Facebook Marketplace provide avenues for connecting with buyers.

Local advertising, such as in newspapers or community spaces, and word-of-mouth through friends and family are also viable options. However, placing a “for sale” sign on a parked car can be illegal.

Although sites like Gumtree and eBay attract significant traffic, your ad might get lost among other listings. Motors.co.uk and Exchange & Mart offer specialised car marketplaces for free, but they may not have the same volume of visitors as Auto Trader.

Choosing the right site is crucial to ensure your car gets sufficient exposure to potential buyers.

Creating THE ad

Creating a compelling advert is essential when selling your car, especially on platforms like Auto Trader and eBay where competition is high.

Provide a detailed description, including mileage, MOT expiry date, and any additional features. While you don’t have to list all faults, honesty is crucial to avoid disappointing customers.

High-quality photos are paramount to attract buyers, so ensure they are well-lit, focused, and showcase the entire car. Include images of the exterior from all angles, the interior, passenger seat, wheels, tyres, and any existing damage.

Reading guides on taking professional-looking photos, such as those available on Wiki-How, can be beneficial.

Finding the right buyer

Once your classified ad is live, potential buyers may reach out, and you’ll need to meet them, show the car, and allow for test drives.

However, be cautious of potential time-wasters and scammers when selling privately. Always meet in a familiar location, such as your home or workplace, and never leave the car unattended with the buyer.

Accompany them on the test drive and avoid allowing them to take pictures of important documents.

Negotiating

Negotiations often occur between buyers and sellers to ensure both parties feel satisfied with the deal.

 Buyers may attempt to haggle and lower the price, so consider setting your asking price sightly higher than your desired amount to allow room for negotiations.

However, be mindful that setting the price too high may deter potential buyers, so aim for a reasonable amount.

Necessary documents

When selling your car privately, ensure you have all necessary documentation, including the V5 document (proof of ownership), service history, and MOT certificates.

Refrain from handing over any documents or allowing photos until the sale is agreed upon.  

After selling the car, provide the buyer with the top portion of the V5C form and any additional paperwork. Upon receiving payment and completing the sale, issue a receipt with details such as the sale date, registration number, car make and model, and both parties’ full names and addresses.

Getting paid securely

To ensure a secure transaction when selling your car, verify the buyer’s seriousness by obtaining their phone number and vetting them before arranging a viewing.

Consider online bank transfers as the preferred payment method, although other options like using a third-party escrow service or banker’s draft are available.

Ensure the legitimacy of any third-party service by checking with the Financial Conduct Authority. Wait for confirmation of payment from your bank or payment provider before handing over the keys.

Provide the buyer with a receipt after completing the sale, and retain a copy for yourself as proof of transaction.