How to Get Best Value for Your Trade-In

Jan 15
14:48

2015

Neal Weaver

Neal Weaver

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Research the value of your vehicle online. Be sure that the purchase of new car and the transaction of your trade-in value are separate. No matter what the car’s record is, bring evidence of your driving record for the dealership so the dealers know the correct value the car should be estimated at. Be reasonable about the value of your trade-in.

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Do Your Research
Research the value of your vehicle online.  Take note of what other people value your make and model of car,How to Get Best Value for Your Trade-In Articles especially in your area. Finding an estimate in your area will give you a better idea of what your car’s value. To find the value on your vehicle you can visit Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds. These websites should have all the information you need, and it is free and readily available.

Time it Right
Be sure that the purchase of new car and the transaction of your trade-in value are separate.  You don’t want any of the variables of the price of the new car to affect the trade in value.  The best way to make sure the transactions are separate is to finance your new vehicle through your bank or credit union.

Clean It Up
Clean the interior and exterior of the vehicle so it will be in its best condition when you take it to get an estimate for trade in value.  

Show your Record
No matter what the car’s record is, bring evidence of your driving record for the dealership so the dealers know the correct value the car should be estimated at.  Chances are if you have a clean driving record, and your vehicle has no prior damage, then you should get a better trade-in value.

Shop Around
Get a trade-in estimate from more than one dealer, or if the dealer gives you a lower price than you are wanting, you can try to sell it for more through a private party.  Both ways are good options, it just depends on what situation works best for you.

Know What You Own
Be reasonable about the value of your trade-in.  Most owners think their vehicles are worth a lot more than they actually are. New cars lose up to 20% of their value after their first year, so keep that in mind when you are looking at estimates on your vehicle.

Use Your Tax Advantage
A major benefit of trading in your car is that you can receive a tax credit when purchasing a new vehicle.  For example, if your trade-in vehicle is worth $4,000, and your new car costs $21,000, you only have to pay sales tax on $16,000.

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