Great. You’ve reached Step 1…
However, there are inherent dangers that can arise during this process. It's essential to consider carefully whether you're equipped to deal with tire-kickers, scammers, and other unsavory characters that you will undoubtedly encounter throughout this experience. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, in 2017, almost 100 car sellers on Craigslist were the victims of a scam that left them without their car and holding a rubber check. It’s important to consider the risks associated with selling your car and putting your personal information on the internet. As with increased value and demand, the crave for these high end automobiles does not stop in the criminal underworld of vehicle theft.
If you’ve ever heard the adage that your friends are a good reflection of the type of person you are, a similar rule applies to selling your car online. The more professional, clear and strategic you are while selling your car – the more likely you are to attract the right type of buyer. In case you’ve missed it, check out our article 10 Tips for Selling Your Car Privately for guided information.
We understand that obtaining access to criminal databases or investing in a formal background check to assess the character of a potential buyer may not be practical for everyone. However, there are several alternative methods to conduct your own due diligence. One option is to schedule a phone call with the buyer, as many fraudulent individuals prefer to communicate solely through email. A number of potential car buyers may not be what they seem, with some operating from foreign countries outside of the U.S. and attempting to deceive sellers by using fake Google numbers or even text messages.
First and foremost, always insist on a phone call with any potential buyers, as many scammers will only communicate via email or text. It's important to remain vigilant during this call, as any unusual requests or suggestions - such as shipping the car to obscure locations - should be treated with caution and could be an indication of fraudulent activity. Remember to trust your intuition and, if in doubt, bring the conversation to an end.
The more eager or desperate you seem to be to sell your car, the more vulnerable you become to potential scammers. Be wary of individuals offering to purchase your vehicle without first inspecting it in person. After all, would you buy a car without first examining it and taking it for a test drive? While it is true that online marketplaces such as Exotic Car Trader, Auto Trader and eBay facilitate transactions between verified buyers and sellers, these platforms have their own safeguards in place to protect both parties in case of any issues. When selling your car on platforms like Craigslist or through local newspapers, it is up to you to ensure that necessary precautions are taken to prevent fraud. Project an air of calmness and avoid rushing the sale, even if you feel pressured to do so.
It's inevitable that you'll have to meet with the prospective buyer in person. However, you can take precautions to ensure your safety. Consider meeting in a neutral and safe space. Certain areas have been designated as "safe zones" by the police, which are well-lit and equipped with video surveillance. To discourage potential scammers, it's best to establish a ground rule that they must meet in a location of your choosing. By not allowing them to manipulate the meeting place, the chances of being robbed or having your car stolen decrease significantly.
While this may sound harsh, it's a crucial tip to keep in mind when selling a car. If a potential buyer presents you with a long and intricate story about their personal circumstances, such as how they need to ship the car overseas to a relative, this may be a sign of fraudulent activity. It's important to stay level headed and remember that this is a business transaction. You have no obligation to sell your car to someone simply because you feel sorry for them. Additionally, it's worth noting that some scammers may pose as members of the military to create a sense of legitimacy around their overseas requests, tugging at your sense of patriotism. Don't fall for this tactic, as it's highly unlikely that they are actually an active member of the military.
By now, you should be more apprehensive of the potential pitfalls that may arise when attempting to sell your car privately. If you find the effort or risk associated with these precautions to be daunting, there is an alternative solution available at ExoticCarTrader.com. Our team of reputable automotive experts will take care of everything for you, enabling you to relax while we locate serious buyers with checks that will clear. We'll also weed out any scammers to ensure a hassle-free transaction. It's easy, straightforward, and worry-free.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
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