If you’re one who hates or, even worse, downright refuses to sell your own vehicles, perhaps this series of informative posts will give you pause to reconsider. The bottom line is that you will make more money by selling your own vehicle. Being prepared and having a plan are the key factors to emotionally ready yourself to sell. The mechanical aspects of the sale will fall into place if you’ll just have a little faith in TDG.
<Joe Isuzu>Trust Me. Would I lie to you?</Joe Isuzu>
TDG has a plethora of simple (world-class, really) vehicle selling tips that, when observed, practically guarantee an efficient and satisfying selling experience. Following these tips avoids the typical pitfalls encountered with bad selling habits and, by using these simple techniques,TDG has sold vehicles sight unseen with nary a complaint.
If you’ve shopped for anything motoring related, especially on craigslist, you’ve undoubtedly seen the phrase “No Lowballers” used in advertisements. Lowballers are those who practice the act of lowballing through the delivery of lowball (ridiculously low) offers. Sure, they can be annoying, but don’t take it personally.
Let TDG be so bold as to posit the following equation:
“No Lowballers” = Bad Attitude = Bad Seller
Put “No Lowball Offers” in your ad and you’re slamming the door on any chance of communication and negotiation with some potential buyers. Seriously, it takes no effort to ignore or delete ridiculous offers.
Now, let’s flip the tone 180 degrees (not 360 degrees as many are wont to say) and take a positive slant. The first set of selling tips from TDG relate to entering the arena of private vehicle sales with the proper mindset.
Tip 1: Keep a Positive Attitude
Few things turn buyers off as quickly as a seller with a bad attitude; you will maximize your return if you make the buyer’s experience as pleasant as possible. A bad attitude only flies when you’re selling something very special or lowballing yourself.
Don’t act bothered. Excuse me? You’re cranky being contacted about something you’ve advertised? Don’t be aloof or act suprised when someone calls. “Oh. Huh? Yeah, I guess it’s still for sale.” Remain positive, attentive, and upbeat at all times. “Yes, it’s still for sale. What would you like to know about it?”
Be eager and responsive but temper your enthusiasm so as to not come across as desperate. Know that some buyers will be flaky and rude. Don’t take it personally.
Tip 2: Manage How You Want to Be Contacted
Decide which of the three main methods of communication (phone, text, and email) you want to use. Each has their pros and cons but the more you use the more responses you are likely to receive.
Email is the origin of nearly all spam and scams. “Is your item still for sale?” is a classic fishing expedition (duh-leet!); good buyers will include enough pertinent information for you to discern their viability. Don’t worry, it doesn’t take long to hone your filtering skills.
TDG prefers phone contact because people willing to call tend to be more serious (except for the companies calling to help you sell). However, this tends to dissuade the casual shopper who, if anything like TDG, can become a serious buyer in a heartbeat.
Texting is a hybrid: people have their phone in their hands yet choose not to call. It is good for establishing contact but not efficient for detailed communication. This method is popular with younger buyers (obviously).
Make the effort to answer calls and respond to voicemail and email as soon as possible - TDG does not play hard to get (when selling). Communication can be spotty and frustrating. Don’t take it personally.
Tip 3: Don’t Preset the Terms of Sale
While doing so in your head is okay, don’t dictate the terms of the sale during your first interaction with a buyer – especially the price. If a lowball price is thrown out the best tactic is a response along the lines of “I’m sorry, but that is lower than I’m willing to consider.” You can then gauge the buyer’s reaction and willingness to come up in price.
Avoid appearing inflexible. Using phrases like “I won’t” or “I can’t” will rub buyers the wrong way. Wait until you’re sure the buyer is hooked before working through the details of the sale; if you need a certain amount for the sale this is the time it can be revealed. Don’t offer a price until you’re at or above the amount you’re willing to accept. Be aware that, occasionally, some deals will just fall apart. Don’t take it personally.
Now, with your motivation welling and your appetite whet, be sure to check back frequently for the next set of killer selling tips. Better yet, become a follower or follow TDG on Twitter.
-TDG
