Selling Your Car: Prep It for the Best Price
Selling your car yourself on Marketplace or Kijiji can net you hundreds more than a dealer trade-in. But a buyer who doubts is a buyer who negotiates down. The idea is to stack the odds in your favor before the very first photo.
Before You Post the Ad
📋 The Pre-Photo Checklist
Wash + interior clean · Gather receipts and service records · Fix small annoyances (burnt bulb, empty washer fluid) · Daytime photos, every angle · Have the registration ready
The Small Fixes That Pay Off
You don't need to fix everything, but some details worry a buyer more than they should: a warning light, a brake squeal, a skipping wiper. Fixing these costs little and removes the buyer's negotiating arguments.
Honesty Sells
A clear maintenance record and a car with nothing to hide reassure buyers. You can even offer to let the buyer inspect it before buying: it builds trust and often speeds up the sale. A car that's "ready to inspect" is a car that sells.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting an inspection before selling?
Yes. A recent report reassures the buyer and justifies your price. It can avoid long negotiations.
Should I repair before selling or lower the price?
Depends on cost. Small repairs are often worth it; for big ones, sometimes it's better to adjust the price and be transparent.
Does cleaning really make a difference?
A huge one. A clean car looks better maintained and sells faster, often for more.
Selling your car?
Garage Path57 — 7971 15e Ave, Saint-Michel, Montreal, QC H1Z 3N5
Book a "ready-to-sell" inspection to reassure your buyers.
Garage Path57 · 7971 15e Avenue, Montréal (QC) H1Z 3N5 · (514) 433-7479