Knowing the best time to sell a car is just one of the many factors you’ll want to consider when it comes to making the big decision. If you have the luxury of choosing the best possible time to sell your car, then there are some things to consider that will help you get the best bang for your buck.
So, when is the best time to sell a car?
That’s what we’ll explore in this blog post, as well as many other topics, including:
- What affects a car's selling price?
- When should you sell your car?
- Why sell your car with Sell 2 Swansway?
What affects a car’s selling price?
There’s no one right answer to the question of “when is the best time to sell a car?” The good news is that there are some timing-related factors you can take advantage of to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your car.
1. The changing seasons
Seasonality is a major contributor to the kinds of cars that sell throughout the year, especially in the UK where the seasons are generally more pronounced and consistent. During the warmer summer months, convertibles and sports cars are more popular choices for buyers whereas 4x4 and SUVs are in higher demand during the more challenging driving conditions of winter.
All-rounder vehicles like family hatchbacks don’t offer too much variation throughout the year when it comes to price as they aren’t as specialised or suited to any particular season. With this in mind, consider whether your car would be best sold now if it’s worth waiting, or if there will be no difference between the two.
2. The economy
From the outside, it might seem that an economic dip - like the one seen in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic - would have a detrimental effect on the health of the second-hand car market. And whilst the state of the economy does have an effect on people’s decision to buy a car due to households having less disposable income, the cheaper prices associated with the second-hand car market can also encourage people to buy used rather than new.
People are, now more than ever, looking for cheaper alternatives to new cars, so this could be the perfect time to make a sale!
3. March and September plate updates
In the same way that cars can increase in value over certain seasons, there are two specific months of the year that can have the opposite effect. In March and September, new registration plates launch, resulting in a renewed interest in new cars with updated plates.
During this time, you may notice that finding a buyer for your car is a little harder than you may have originally anticipated.
When should you sell your car?
1. Outside of factors you can’t control
Like the time of year and economic climate - there are times in our own personal lives that demand we sell our cars. If any of the following relate to you, it may be the best time for you to sell your car:
2. A high-maintenance car
If your car is giving you trouble and not running like it used to, then it’s probably causing some anxiety, not to mention burning a hole in your pocket from all the repairs and replacements. Before your car depreciates any more in value and costs you even more to maintain, consider selling right away for a cost-effective, energy-saving solution.
3. Lifestyle changes
They say change is the only constant and sometimes change creates the best opportunity for you to sell your car. Whether that be a daily commute that has become financially untenable or the arrival of a new member of the family, selling your car to suit your lifestyle is often a reality for many.
4. No longer want to pay for a financed car
Did you know you can sell your car even if you owe remaining finance on it? If you’re in a position where you no longer can or want to pay off your financed car, just get in touch with your lender and Sell 2 Swansway will take it off your hands to sell, and even pay the remaining money owed!
Why choose Sell 2 Swansway?
Whenever you find it is best to sell a car, Sell 2 Swansway is here to make the selling process quicker and easier than ever - in fact you never have to leave the sofa.
With a 7 day guaranteed quote, free collection and instant payment straight to your account, you won’t find a more hassle-free selling experience than with us. No matter the season, regardless of the economy, we’re here to buy your car when you need it gone. Find out what your car is worth today!