Selling privately can put thousands more in your pocket than a trade-in. Here's how to do it properly.
Step 1: Know Your Price Before You List
Use TrueCarPrice to check the sourcing price for your car. Add 15–20% for a realistic private sale asking price. This is what gives you room to negotiate without going below your target.
Step 2: Prepare the Car
A professional detail ($150–$250) typically adds $500–$1,500 to perceived value. Fix minor cosmetic issues. Replace cracked wiper blades. Ensure all lights work. These are the things buyers photograph and report back to their mechanic.
Step 3: Take Great Photos
Shoot in the morning or late afternoon on an overcast day — harsh midday sun creates unflattering shadows. Always shoot against a neutral background. Capture: front 3/4, rear 3/4, both sides, engine bay, boot, interior from both sides, odometer, logbook. Minimum 15 photos.
Step 4: Write a Compelling Listing
Include: make, model, year, badge, kilometres, transmission, fuel type, colour, service history status, defects (honest disclosures build trust), reason for selling, and your asking price. Lead with the strongest feature of the car.
Step 5: Choose Your Platform
Carsales.com.au dominates in Australia. Facebook Marketplace reaches a broader audience but attracts more time-wasters. Use both. Gumtree is declining in relevance for cars.
Step 6: Handle Enquiries and Test Drives
Always meet in a public place for the first contact. Never hand over keys without seeing a licence. Accompany all test drives. Trust your instincts — it's okay to say the car has been sold if someone makes you uncomfortable.
Step 7: Payment and Transfer
Accept bank transfer only — never cash or cheques. Complete the transfer of registration through your state's transport authority (online in most states). Keep copies of everything.
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