Trade-in value is defined as the value that a second-hand item or merchandise fetches or that a trader is willing to forego in exchange for a new product. Trades are an efficient way to dispose of old assets for newer models without the hassle of dealing with multiple dealers. In order to get the most value for your trade-in, there are certain things that the owner of the old asset can do.
Fix known defects
Used or old cars usually have some defects that accrue to it owing to usage. Giving up the asset when it has these defects automatically lowers its trade-in value as the trader will factor the cost of repair of the defects when calculating the value of the asset. It follows therefore that fixing the defect automatically raises its trade-in value. Repair any dents, leakages or scratches to ensure the best value for your trade-in.
Negotiate the trade-in value separately
Since the aim of this option is the acquisition of a new asset such as a car while at the same time disposing of the old one, compounding the total value of the trade-in discount with respect to the value of the discount on the new car will lower the trade-in value. This is because traders in trade-in arrangements will inflate the price of the new car to maximize returns. Negotiating the trade-in separately from the new purchase will make sure that the car traded-in fetches its required value.
Most Value For Your Trade-In
Timing
Basic economics dictates that value in any trade setup is chiefly dependent on demand and supply. When the supply is high, and demand low. Then the value decreases. On the other hand, when the demand is high and supply is low, then value increases. It follows therefore that to increase the trade-in value of an asset, optimum timing when demand is greater than supply, is crucial.
Survey the market
Different dealers will offer different trade-in values for the same asset. A good market analysis of the dealers who are available in the market and how much each is willing to offer in a trade-in deal will most likely ensure that your trade-in fetches the highest market value.
Provide relevant documentation
A car that has all relevant documents in place such as service receipts or maintenance logs increases the trade-in value for your car. This is because the documents show that the car is in good condition and well taken care of.
Use the car less
The trade-in value of a car depends on among other things, the mileage it has accumulated over the course of its use. It follows therefore that driving the car less will make it more appealing to dealers and therefore increase its trade-in value.
Work on first impressions
If you present a car that is dirty and greasy to a dealer for valuation, they are more likely to lower its real value. Following up on this, cleaning the car thoroughly will give it an even higher value.
Another method with regards to first impressions is detailing. Detailing in cars involves deep cleaning the car so that it looks almost brand new. Even more, the detailing should be done both on the exterior as well as on the interiors. Since the value attached will likely begin with a visual inspection, a detailed car will most definitely fetch a higher value when compared to a car that has only been cleaned.
Avoid last-minute deals
Last-minute deals tend to be priced in such a way that the dealers get the most out of the transaction. In order to get the most out of a trade deal, the urgency to close the deal will drastically reduce the value of the trade-in. As such, providing ample time to enable you to research other offers as well will certainly ensure the trade-in gets a fair price.
Avoid appearing desperate
If you present yourself to a dealer looking anxious and desperate to close a deal, they are bound to be more rigid in negotiations and this is likely to deny you the real value for the trade-in. However, if you present as calm and relaxed while at the same time letting the dealer know that it’s not a matter of urgency, they are more likely to be more flexible in negotiations and offer a higher credit for your current vehicle.
Research on dealings
A good understanding of how the deals are structured and how they earn profit will definitely give you an edge in the preceding negotiations on valuations for your trade. This insider knowledge on things such as profit margins, turnaround time, resale value, and demand for the car will protect you from exploitation and also help you negotiate a higher value.
Get pre-qualified online and come shop our dealership specials today!
