Vehicle scams have added up to AUD 288,000 in the first half of 2021 alone. The Australian government has been flashing alarm signals as the figure creeps higher than the record in 2019. Due to a large number of scams, you should be careful when selling your car – both online and offline.
If you’re thinking, “I have to sell my car in Brisbane,” then you might be in luck. Here are six crucial tips when selling your car in Brisbane!
The Defect Dilemma
A popular scam is to considerably lower your asking price by mentioning several defects that never existed. Buyers may state problems with the lights, engine, tires, paint, absolutely anything to make the value of your car drop.
Preventing this scam from hurting you involves having a clear and complete knowledge of the condition of your car. A quick check at your local Brisbane mechanic can provide evidence to corroborate your claims!
Finders Keepers
There are many reliable car selling sites that will do things in an honest, transparent manner. Others will never return personal belongings to you. While it’s not a scam, many people and organisations purchasing cars from you will never return personal belongings.
Make sure to re-check your car thoroughly before handing it over, even for an inspection. Remove even old insurance papers as they contain a lot of personal, sensitive information. Check the odd nooks and crannies of the car to prevent losing anything to this unorthodox scam.
Clear Titles
While this isn’t a tip to prevent getting scammed, it’ll help the process go a lot smoother. When you’re selling your car online, you’ll be asked to provide a clear title.
A clear title simple proves that the car does belong to you and has not been purchased, possessed, or loaned by anybody else. It also helps solidify the value of your vehicle!
You will need to purchase this title in Brisbane. Since many car wreckers require clear titles, you can buy one at an auto wreckers shop.
While you’re getting these documents in order, don’t forget to get a roadworthy certificate. It’s not advisable to sell your car to anybody without one in Brisbane.
Doesn’t Hurt to Invest
Investing a little into your car’s maintenance before selling can help fetch you a better price.
When your car has noticeable problems that you’re leaving for the buyer to fix up, the valuation of your vehicle immediately goes down. A little maintenance work before you sell it can have it double. Second-hand cars are worth more than junk cars, after all!
Cash Counts
If you can get cash for your car, then do it. While there are advantages to having money wired straight to your account (better documentation, clear records, etc.), cash can be a better option. It’s not underhand behaviour, but a better payment option if available.
Knowledge is Key
Vet the company or person you plan to sell your car to. Since it is easier to verify a company online than a person, it is a better option. Read through reviews and customer experiences from different sites and compare several before making a decision!
Wrapping Up
If you have been thinking about “how to sell my car in Brisbane”, then you also know there are a few hoops to jump through. With vehicle scams increasing in frequency, it’s best to be on the safer side and protect yourself with these six tips!
About The Author: Alison Lurie