Read to know things you need to know first before putting your car up for sale.

Selling your car isn’t as simple as it sounds. There are things that should be done first. It may be a long and stressful process especially if it is your first time, but when you get the best deal, it’ll be worth it in the end. But before you finally put your car on sale, there are things you should do and prepare. To help you get ready to sell your car, we prepared the things you need to know first.

1. Check the car’s document and paperwork

The car's documents are vital to every car owner. It is proof that the car is yours legally. It also states whether the car is fully paid or there are still balance left to pay. For example, your car is on loan, you have to make sure to state the exact amount that still needs to be paid. You can ask your lender about the needed documents you have to complete before selling the car.

The car's documents are vital to every car owner. It is proof that the car is yours legally

2. Applying for a transfer of ownership

If your vehicle is not on a loan, then you have to prepare the required documents listed below that are needed for the transfer of ownership of your car. You need to submit the following documents and paper works at any Land Transportation Office:

• PNP-TMG MV Clearance Certificate
• TIN or the Taxpayer’s Identification Number
• Original Copy of the Certificate of Registration (CR) or the Certificate of Encumbered (CRE)
• Insurance Certificate Cover
• Official receipt of the latest MVUC payment as well as other fees
• Conveyance Conformation of OR and CR/ Deed of sale/ Transfer
• Written letter of consent from the financing or lending company in case you are giving a CRE

Before selling your car, make sure you prepare all the documents. It is advisable to prepare this before anything else because some of these documents take some time to process. When complete, set them aside. You will need those documents after you have your car sold.

Original Copy of the Certificate of Registration (CR)

But aside from the Transfer of Ownership documents, you also need to prepare your vehicle’s owner manual, service books, brochures, records and all important paperwork of your car that are related to repair maintenance, ownership, and sale.

3. Have your car inspected

It is not a major requirement, however, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected. The inspection is useful in identifying if the car is in the right shape before putting it up for sale. It will also give you an idea about the value of your car.

Your car might look like it is in great shape, but the third party can identify and point out your vehicle's flaws you might never notice before. If that’s the case, you can either have it fixed or repaired or you can sell it but at a much lower price.

The inspection is useful in identifying if the car is in the right shape before putting it up for sale

4. Do your own research

When deciding for the price of your car, don’t just rely on the car appraisal. There are other ways to know the pricing for your car. You can go online and so some research about cars for sale that are the same model as your vehicle.

You can go online and so some research about cars for sale that are the same model as your vehicle

5. Clean your car

Remember that impression count. It doesn’t only apply to people but to cars as well. So, it is recommended to clean your car to be able to present it in its best possible condition. This will also allow you to get a good deal. You can start cleaning in the car’s interior such as:

• Hard to reach areas in the interior
• Buttons, knobs, and gearshift
• Leather upholstery
• Car odor
• Mats, carpet, cloth upholstery 
• Trunk

You should also clean the car’s exterior and fix anything that can be fixed for it to look aesthetically pleasing like the:

• Car’s body
• Windows
• License Plates and holders
• Tires
• Exterior Stains
• Scratches and dents (it is better to have them fixed and repaired before selling your car)
• Car engine
• Compartment
• Car battery
• Phone holders, cup holders etc.

When you have a budget for a professional car cleaning and detailing, then do so. They have all the appropriate equipment and tools in cleaning and repairing minor scratches and dents without you spending so much.

It is recommended to clean your car to be able to present it in its best possible condition

6. Take good photos of your car

For more effective advertising, take photos of your vehicle but make sure that it is of good quality which shows your vehicle at all angles. When taking pictures of your car, you should also make sure that there is good lighting and the photos are clear. This will allow potential buyers to see the actual car color and the details of your vehicle.

Here are some areas you need to photograph:

• The front part of the vehicle
• The driver’s side view area
• Back part of the car
• Door panels (also take pictures when the door is open)
• The front passenger’s side, both left and right
• Front seats
• Dashboard
• Steering wheel
• Passengers seats
• Tires and rims
• Trunk space
• Center console
• If your car has special features like sun or moon roof, roof rails, seat belts for kids, etc., take photos of it as well.

7. Advertise

When finally deciding to advertise your car, make sure the timing is also right. Just remember that it is not advisable to sell your car during holiday seasons, most especially Lenten season, Christmas and New Year because most people are busy and on vacation to buy a car. The best time to sell a car is during summer.

You can also put your car for sale depending on the needs of its type. For example, if your vehicle is an AUV, SUV or van, which are is in-demand during the rainy seasons, you can sell it during that time.

In addition, when posting your car ad, make sure that many people will be able to see it. You can use your social media account and you can also post your car ad in Philkotse.com since it’s also a vehicle marketplace. It is designed in making an online car buying and selling stress-free. If you’re done with all the things above, then your car is ready to be for sale.

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