The internet has made the sale and purchase of cars a thing that doesn’t have to happen within the same city anymore. More and more people are selling cars across state lines to buyers hundreds of miles away. Here are some quick steps for you take advantage of the online car sale process to the best of your ability.
Prior to selling your vehicle privately, you’ll want to do your due diligence concerning your local laws about selling outside of your state. The best course of action might be going directly to the DMV and asking about any specific rules or regulations in your state.
Having a copy of your prospective buyer’s license on file is crucial. It gives you evidence to prove that the vehicle was sold to a licensed buyer. It can also prove convenient while filling out any title transfers or other paperwork since the buyer isn’t around to sign them.
A Bill of Sale is not required by every state to be done alongside a title transfer. Regardless of whether or not the document is required, it doesn’t hurt to have it anyways.
Your Bill of Sale should have the make, model, year, and VIN of the vehicle along with the sale price and odometer reading.
You’ll also want a section for the buyer and seller’s full names and addresses. Have both parties sign and date the document and you’ll have a Bill of Sale.
The title transfer application is one of the most critical documents of the car sale process. Selling it out of state means you’ll have to complete TWO title transfers: one in your state and one in the state it’s being bought in.
As the seller, you’ll need to visit your local DMV and get your title transfer application. You can actually complete this form online, but going in person gives you the opportunity to ask about any of the local laws and requirements mentioned in Step 1.
The buyer should follow the same process in their home state.
Some states require temporary registration documents and license plates for cars being driven from another state. They may issue “transfer tags.” These will allow the vehicle to be driven legally until the buyer can take it to their DMV.
There are states that require you to notify the DMV that you have sold your vehicle. Step 1 is a good time to ask whether you and your out-of-state buyer have to announce the sale and purchase of the vehicle, respectively.
Selling a car online, like anything else, has its bright sides and its less than savory aspects. Before deciding to sell your car remotely, take a moment to consider the pros and cons:
Convenient - Selling your car online removes the hassle of having to take it anywhere or make sure your car is seen by prospective buyers. You can accomplish nearly everything you need to from the comfort of your couch.
Cost Efficient - Listing a car online typically doesn’t cost a single penny. You don’t have to rent out any space to prop your vehicle up for people to see.
Wider Reach - Selling your car online gives you access to a larger pool of potential buyers. Posting on several websites will grant you a bigger chance of getting your vehicle sold.
Scams - The nature of online business draws people who aim to take advantage of others with scams and fraudulent activity. Selling your car online opens you up to being targeted by these individuals.
Skepticism - Just like you can be targeted by scammers, potential buyers might think you are scamming them. Selling a car online immediately throws up an obstacle to building trust between the seller and buyer.
Advertising Costs - While you can upload your car for sale on plenty of sites, if you want to reach a greater audience of potential buyers then you’re going to pay the advertising tax. This will help your car end up at the top of the listing.
When it comes to selling your car remotely, ease and convenience are key! At CarBrain, we aim to make sure your entire process goes as smooth and easy as possible. It’s so easy, we can break it down into three simple steps:
Get your free quote! Simply enter some basic information about your car on our website and you’ll receive a free and guaranteed quote within 90 seconds.
Towing is complementary, so you’ll never have to worry about hidden or additional fees taking away from the profits you take home.
Schedule your pickup within 24-48 hours! If you’re happy with your quote, you’ll be able to schedule your vehicle retrieval with one of our partners within your area. They’re trusted to come to you at a time that works best for you.
Complete your sale! After a quick inspection and transferring of your title, you’ll receive the amount you were quoted, no haggling or fuss. Your vehicle is taken off your hands and money is put in them!
Contact CarBrain today and sell your car quickly without leaving the comfort of your own home!