See all Motoring AdviceTiming, as they say, is everything. And that’s as true for comedy as it is for selling a car, and though you might think any time of year is as good as another, the truth is that summer is one of the best times to sell your car. From a surge in buyer demand to improved kerb appeal in better weather, summer offers car sellers distinct advantages for those who can make the most of them.
High Demand
One of the main reasons summer stands out as one of the best times to part ways with your vehicle is because buyer activity often peaks during this time of year. Families are planning road trips, university students are preparing for autumn moves and some motorists just want a fun car for the summer months. All of which tends to cause an increase in the number of motorists browsing used cars – and especially convertible and sports cars – in the height of summer.
What’s more, the improved weather makes test drives more likely to go ahead and brings more people out to view a second-hand vehicle. Whereas rainy, wintry days tend to discourage would-be buyers, the sunnier weather tends to put customers in the car-buying mood.
It also shows cars, quite literally, in their best light. With the sun out, paintwork is more likely to gleam, pictures are more likely to look appealing and it’s easier to wash and clean your car. And that first impression tends to encourage buyers to part with their hard-earned euros more quickly.
Add in the fact that summer is about as far away as possible from the often-expensive Christmas period, and buyers’ purses are potentially at their fullest, then the middle of the year becomes the perfect time to put your vehicle on the used market.
The Car is Right
It’s worth remembering that the car market is cyclical, and while summer is often the best time to sell your car, it isn’t always the case. While 4x4s and off-road vehicles tend to sell better in winter, when the prospect of snow tends to push motorists towards more capable vehicles, most other types of car tend to sell better in the spring and summer months.
That’s particularly true of sports cars and convertibles, which tend to be at their most valuable when the days are longer, the weather is at its best and customers are looking for a fun way to enjoy the season.
How to Make the Most of Summer (Financially)
If you’re planning to list your car this summer, here are some essential tips to help you get the best price possible.
1. Clean It Inside and Out
Invest time – and perhaps even money – in a proper valet. Wash and polish the exterior, clean the windows and vacuum the interior thoroughly. Pay attention to what seem to be minor details, such as dust in vents, smudges on the dashboard and boot cleanliness. A spotless car makes the car look well cared for, and that can bump up the closing price noticeably.
2. Take Great Photos
Images are everything in online listings. Choose a bright, dry day to photograph your car, and take pictures from multiple angles, ensuring you cover the front, rear, both sides and interior. Make sure to highlight special features such as optional extras, infotainment systems, or alloy wheel condition. If your car has low mileage, lots of history and plenty of documentation, make sure to include a clear photo of the paperwork.
3. Be Honest and Accurate
Write an honest description of your vehicle, while still extolling its virtues. Mention the make, model, year, mileage, service history and any standout features or recent upgrades. Being up-front about small issues (like a scratch or worn tyre) makes your advert seem more honest and trustworthy and saves time during the sale process. It also reduces the likelihood of people trying to knock the price down as a result of an undisclosed flaw.
4. Know Your Car’s Value
Do your research to gauge how much the vehicle should go on the market for. Search the classifieds for similar vehicles to get a rough guide or use an online price guide tool to get some idea of the car’s current market value. Setting a realistic price will attract more would-be customers, who might be put off by a car that’s suspiciously cheap or unrealistically expensive.
5. Time Your Listing Right
While summer is generally the ideal time to list your car, some parts of the season are better than others. Aim to post your listing just before the weekend, when browsing activity typically spikes, and consider aiming for longer bank holiday weekends. It might even be best to list your car around the turn of the month, when many buyers have just been paid and may be more motivated to make a purchase.
6. Have Your Documents Ready
Buyers want a seamless transaction, so ensure you have your car’s documentation, service history and any receipts for recent maintenance ready. Transparency and organisation also help reassure buyers they’re making a solid purchase.