Experience has taught me to be aware of people that you talk to. Unfortunately there are people out there who are dishonest when it comes to buying a vehicle that is second hand.
If you’re preparing to sell your car we suggest you do the following before the ad is uploaded and before the car is released to the new owner:
– Depending on the condition of the car and how much it’s worth, you may want to sell the car without a roadworthy and without registration, if so you need to make this very clear on the ad you post.
– Take off the registration plates (if selling without a roadworthy). Make sure if you’re doing this that you take the plates to VicRoads yourself, sometimes the buyer may try to convince you to allow them to do it.
– Whatever price you agree on with the buyer, do not change your mind. If they try to re-negotiate the price – stand firm and don’t let them take the car until you have the money you agreed on – when selling the car you may even get asked if you will take a much lower price (depending on the buyer).
– Take a photo of the compliance plate.
– If the buyer is car wrecker, make sure you take a photo of the car on the back of the truck and get the tow truck company’s details and the registration number of the truck.
– Get the money from the driver before he puts the car on the back of the truck.
The tips above came in handy for one of our own team members who recently purchased a new car and wanted to sell their old Toyota, which was worth only a few hundred dollars. When they finally met the new buyer, sure enough straight away the buyer wanted to talk down the price of the car. Having spoken to us before selling and taking on board our tips, they were prepared for this and ended up telling the buyer they will only sell the car for the agreed price and left it at that. As no surprise the buyer had the cash ready for the agreed price!
These simple steps may help protect you and stop you from being ripped off. Remember it often pays to get the right advice so you can make the right decision.
Once the car has gone, ensure you head off to VIC Roads, hand in the plates and get a refund on the registration fee.
Remember it pays to get professional advice which will save you any heartache later on.