As promised, here is the second half of our two-part rundown on the lesser-known things that can take a major toll on a car’s resale value:
- Mismatched Tyres
Chances are, you’ll find that most prospective buyers are more interested in tyre-kicking than conducting close-up consistency checks. Nevertheless, mismatched tyres (by way of different brands or different condition) can be off-putting for some. This is mainly due to the fact that mismatched tyres give the impression that the buyer may need to fork out for a new set of tyres in the near future. If you’re not totally confident in the condition and consistency of your car’s tyres, consider having a new set of quality part-worn tyres fitted before listing it.
- Petrol Prices
Fuel efficiency is something most people take into account, when shopping for a used car. They want to know that they’re looking at a fairly cost-effective purchase, which isn’t going to put a drain on their finances at the pumps. Consequently, petrol prices at the time could have a major effect on the attractiveness and assumed market value of your car. The more fuel-inefficient your car is, the better it is to wait until petrol prices are at least semi-reasonable.
- Aftermarket Add-Ons
With this, we’re not talking about the kinds of mechanical upgrades and top-shelf tweaks that add up to superior performance. We’re referring to the more superfluous bits and bobs you’ve installed, which despite looking fantastic to you look horrible to everyone else. This means all the unnecessary accessories, trinkets and adornments that serve no practical purpose, and could adversely affect the value of your vehicle. The closer it is to its original and untainted form, the better.
- The Colour
Sadly, there’s not a great deal you can realistically do about this. Nevertheless, there is no escaping the fact that the colour of a vehicle has a major impact on its value and desirability. This is something that differs significantly from one vehicle make and model to the next. Certain cars sell for higher prices in white than any other colour, while those presented in questionable neon tones appeal only to a very select market buyers. Something to consider, if planning on paying to have your car sprayed a garish colour (or combination thereof) in the near future.
- Your Photos and Description
Last up, attempting to sell a used car for the best possible price is a marketing exercise like any other. As with all marketing exercises, the quality of the photos you publish will make a huge difference to your car’s perceived value. As will the description that accompanies the photos, which can be a real make-or-break factor. In theory, the pictures should say all that needs to be said about how fantastic your used car is. But at the same time, they need to be a true and honest representation of how your car actually looks. Under no circumstances should filters or editing be used to hide imperfections – it will only backfire at a later stage.
