Selling your current set of wheels will naturally take a lot of time. Once you know how to get a bill of sale template for a car, you can speed this process along. Read this guide to learn more about getting your car ready to attract buyers.
Checking Your Vehicle’s Condition
You need to know the car’s current state long before you put it up for sale. This is something you’ll have to be honest about when you’re talking to potential buyers. You’ll also use this to decide on a fair price later on. The main details you have to check include:
- Engine health: Look closely at the engine. Check for problems with the engine oil — as well as any fluid leaks and worn gaskets.
- Transmission: Make sure the gear shift is working. If there are any strange noises (or it just doesn’t feel right), book a repair.
- Brake pads: If the brakes feel too soft, they could be worn down. You’ll definitely need to address this before a sale.
- Tire health: Your tires could be on their last legs without you realizing it. Check their depth and pressure for signs of wear and tear.
- Battery: Look for signs of corrosion on the car’s battery. Carry out a load test to see its current charge capacity.
- Cooling system: Make sure the radiator and thermostat are working fine. This can save the vehicle from overheating.
- Exhaust: Carry out an emissions test and check the exhaust for leaks. Rust is also a big ‘silent car killer’ to watch out for.
- Cleanliness: This might seem quite minor, but an unclean car can cost you a sale. Many drivers especially neglect the undercarriage.
How To Attract Buyers For Your Car
You’ll have to be upfront about the car’s condition, even in your original ad. If you keep secrets from a buyer, they’re sure to find out the truth eventually. This might even count as a breach of contract if you don’t put this in your bill of sale.
When advertising the car, take plenty of photos that show it off from every angle. Alternatively, a walkaround video lets you highlight every feature. Price is yet another major factor in how many people will be interested. Aim a little high — but say that you’re open to negotiating.
Online marketplaces, classified ads, and social media are all great places to put up your car for sale. If someone shows interest, answer any questions they might have and invite them to see it for themselves. This is the best way to give them confidence in your vehicle.
Arranging a Viewing For Your Car
Few people will want to buy a car without giving it a closer look. This is so they can get peace of mind about the transaction and make sure you’re not swindling them. Depending on your people skills, it might also be easier to negotiate with them in person.
If they ask to take it for a test drive, say yes and join them in the passenger seat. This gives you a chance to explain the car’s quirks in case the buyer runs into them. Regardless, a test drive is the perfect opportunity to let your car do the talking.
At this stage, you might also have to show your vehicle’s official documentation. This includes a full history report, though your ad should include the main points already. You’ll also need the vehicle title, warranty documents (if applicable), and the bill of sale itself.
What Your Bill of Sale Needs
An online sale agreement template helps your transaction stand up to scrutiny. This clearly sets out every field you and the buyer will have to complete. A general bill of sale won’t be enough in this case; always pick a car template. This includes space to add the car’s Vehicle Identification Number and describe its condition.
This description will have to be in full detail; even if it just has minor paint scuffs, mention this. In a bill of sale, any mismatch between what you write and what they buy could leave the purchase invalid. This is yet another reason why you should check over your vehicle and fix whatever you can beforehand.
Some states (including Louisiana and Nebraska, among others) ask you to notarize the bill. This is the only way to transfer the title in these areas. While notarization does add another pesky fee to your situation, you can get this at no charge in most major banks. Always pick a template that fits your state.
Honesty and a legally binding bill of sale are key requirements when selling your car. So long as you follow the right preparations, you’ll find a buyer in no time. If you need any extra peace of mind, consider getting a lawyer to check over your documents.
