Transactions don't always go as planned, especially when trading/buying/selling automobiles. The good news is that with proper planning and business etiquette, you can significantly reduce the risk of running into any issues if you just follow these easy steps!
- Make sure your vehicle is in the best shape possible before trying to sell/trade it. This doesn't mean simply ensure that your car isn't literally falling apart. It shows professionalism and mutual respect to ensure that the vehicle won't immediately need its oil changed, tires rotated, cleaned, etc. These are all things that should be taken care of...even before you begin step 2.
- Take lots of pictures. There's nothing worse than having your time wasted, so it's important to be courteous and not waste others' time. Something might sound good on paper, but unless you back it up visually, someone might wind up meeting you to conduct a transaction but back out due to misrepresentation. Cover all angles/views, provide new/specific pictures upon request, and above all, make sure your vehicle is clean, outside and inside! It doesn't take much effort to wipe all surfaces down and give your car a quick vacuuming at the very least.
- Communicate. Communicate. And then communicate some more. This is by far the most important. If someone shows interest in your vehicle (or vice versa), make the most of that window of opportunity! Be responsive, be polite, and don't make any assumptions about the way the other party communicates (e.g., use respectful language). Reply in a timely manner, or you just may miss out on the auto swap of a lifetime!
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