• How much effort you put into preparing your car for sale depends largely on the car’s value and your chosen method of selling.

• If your car isn’t worth much, it doesn’t make sense to invest too much time or money in preparation. However, if your vehicle holds more value, a few straightforward steps can help you sell it faster and for a better price.

• Selling your car privately could bring in more money, but it’s highly competitive in New Jersey, where the laws are particularly strict. On the other hand, selling or trading your car to a dealership might save you from a lot of hassle. We’ve got you covered on both fronts.

If you’re considering selling your car, the process could be simpler—or more complicated—than you expect.

We break down everything you need to know, guiding you through every option and the entire process, complete with handy tips to streamline your car-selling experience.

While this advice is valuable no matter where you are, it’s specifically tailored for New Jersey residents, making it your go-to guide.

Here’s to simplifying the process with no-nonsense tips on selling a used car in New Jersey.

What are the Ways to Sell Your Vehicle in New Jersey

The first question to answer is how you want to part with your old car.

Certain people want the highest money possible, while some prefer to surrender keys fast and with minimum hassle.

You’ve got three primary options for selling your used car. Let’s dive into each:

Selling it Yourself

If you’re confident in handling the sale on your own, this route could be your best bet. Selling privately allows you to negotiate directly with buyers, potentially getting the highest price.

But, that “potential” comes with some challenges. Selling your car yourself demands the most effort and can be particularly frustrating for first-time sellers.

Simply spending hours preparing your car and gathering sales documents isn’t enough. You’ll need to communicate with buyers, complete all necessary paperwork, transfer the vehicle title, and create a bill of sale.

And then there’s the risk of encountering a seasoned buyer who’s a pro at negotiation. After putting in all that time, you might be tempted to accept a lower offer just to get the deal done.

Another scenario where a private sale might not be worth it is if your car isn’t very valuable. Spending significant time and effort for just a few hundred dollars more might not be the best use of your time.

So, consider your situation carefully when choosing this option.

Tip: If you decide to sell privately, advertise your vehicle on multiple platforms online or in print to increase your chances of getting a good offer. Just keep in mind that some platforms might charge a fee for your ad.

With the Help of a Dealer

If selling privately isn’t your thing, consider working with a dealer. While you might not get as much money as you would in a private sale, the convenience can make it worthwhile.

Selling to a dealer is typically quick and straightforward. There’s no need to deal with ads or offers, and the dealer can help you handle all the paperwork to ensure the sale is legal in New Jersey.

Keep in mind that not all dealers are the same—some may offer a better price than others. It’s a good idea to get offers from multiple dealers before making a decision.

There are two main ways to sell your car at a dealership:

• Instant Cash Offer

An Instant Cash Offer is quick and easy, redeemable immediately at a participating local dealer, with no obligation to buy a car from the same dealer. You can get an ICO online, by phone, or in person.

Reminder: Even when dealing with a dealer, don’t hesitate to negotiate. People often think it’s not an option, but it is.

• Trade-in

If you’re planning to upgrade to a new car, you might consider trading in your old car and paying the difference. It’s a convenient option—no need to spend time listing your vehicle or fielding calls and texts from buyers. Plus, trading in can help you save on sales tax.

We’ve put together a detailed guide on how to get the most out of your car’s trade-in potential; don’t miss out on that – 5 Ways to Raise Your Vehicle’s Trade-in Value

Even if you still owe money on your car, trading it in at a dealer is usually an option. You can refer to this guide in that case: Step-by Step Guide to Trade in a Financed Car

Regardless of whether you choose an Instant Cash Offer or a trade-in, always get quotes from multiple dealers. Some dealers, including us, are happy to provide a free offer for your vehicle, which you can choose to cash in or use as trade value.

Easy Way to Get Started

We’ve teamed up with Kelley Blue Book, one of the most trusted names in the automotive industry, to give you a competitive value for your car. Kelley Blue Book uses extensive data to determine the current value of your car and can instantly generate a real cash offer to purchase your vehicle.

Best of all, it’s completely free, and there’s no pressure to accept the offer.

To get started, just enter your VIN or License Plate Number, along with details about your car’s mileage and condition, and you’ll receive an instant offer. The more accurate your information, the more likely your initial offer will match the final price.

The offer is valid for up to 7 days. Just bring your car in for a quick inspection to verify its condition, check the vehicle history, and confirm the title. Whether you decide to trade it in for your next car or sell it for cash, the offer remains the same!

What Price Should You Sell Your Car For?

Setting the right price for your car involves considering several factors. Here’s how you can approach it:

1.  Facts About the Vehicle

Ultimately, the ideal resale price for your car hinges on its model, age, and overall condition.

• Model and year: Ensuring all these information pieces are correct. It’s not uncommon to misinterpret your model with another, mainly when your vehicle model has been discontinued.

• Mileage: Verify your car’s mileage using the odometer. The mileage significantly impacts the value of your vehicle.

• Condition: Cars in good exterior, interior and mechanical condition will usually be sold at a higher value than cars in poor or substandard condition. 

Factor This Too: If your vehicle has been well-maintained, with recent upgrades like new tires or brakes, factor those costs into the asking price. Additionally, if your car is still under a regular or extended warranty that can be transferred, you should definitely ask for more.

2. Use Valuation Tools

One of the most reliable ways to determine your car’s value is by using an online pricing guide. Here are three industry-standard resources:

• Kelley Blue Book
• NADA Guides
• Edmunds

Our valuation tools are based on Kelley Blue Book standards, allowing you to quickly and accurately assess your car’s value. You can easily check your car’s worth here. It’s free and there’s no pressure to accept the same: Find How Much Your Car is Worth (Select the Offer If You Like)

3. Check Local Listings

Prices for the same car can vary significantly depending on the state. For example, a study by iSeecars shows that used cars in Alaska are almost 20% more expensive than the national average, while Indiana has the lowest prices, nearly 11% below average.

To get a better idea of what similar vehicles with comparable equipment and options are selling for in your area, browse local listings. This will help you set a competitive price.

4. Consider the Current Market

Other factors can influence your car’s value, too. For example, there might be seasonal demand for certain types of vehicles, or the overall market might be influenced by things like fuel prices.

For instance,  If gas prices are low, cars with larger engines might be more desirable, but if the market is leaning towards fuel-efficient vehicles, that could bring the price down.

5. Get a Mechanic’s Assessment

Lastly, having a mechanic inspect your car can be a smart move. Not only can this help you set a fair price, but it can also build trust with potential buyers, which might allow you to charge a bit more.

How to Get the Best Price when Selling Your Car?

Now that you’re ready to start the sales process, it’s time to take steps that can boost your vehicle’s resale value. Here are some strategies to help you get the most for your used car.

1. Prepare Your Car for Selling

One of the things you would actually should be doing is to actually work on your vehicle to increase its resale value.

First things first, focus on improving the appearance of your vehicle. This involves taking the time to give it a thorough cleaning and addressing any minor repairs. You don’t necessarily have to shell out for a professional detailing service, but it can certainly be worth it if you’re short on time or lack the necessary materials. 

Handling minor repairs yourself can also pay off, as it saves the private buyer or dealer the hassle and they’re likely to offer you more in return

A well-maintained vehicle gives buyers confidence that the car has been cared for, making it more attractive in the market. On the other hand, if your car is dirty and the engine looks neglected, potential buyers will likely have doubts and concerns about its condition, which can lead to lower offers as they try to justify a reduced price.

2. Get a Pre-Sale Inspection Done

Of course there’s a fee attached, but obtaining a certified inspection report can go a long way in building trust with potential buyers and may lead to a higher offer.

Most buyers will want to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic anyway. If there’s an issue that needs addressing, it’s better to find out before the buyer does.

A pre-sale inspection from a reputable mechanic not only simplifies the process but also puts buyers at ease. It can be a powerful tool for addressing any concerns they might have.

If a buyer still wants their mechanic to take a look, that’s fine—you already know the condition of your car. Just make sure to meet at a reputable business and drive separately.

Remember: A pre-sale inspection from an independent mechanic is different from the bi-annual inspection required by New Jersey, which primarily focuses on emissions and the check engine light. A valid inspection sticker indicates the car has passed the state’s requirements and is usually transferable to the new owner. However, if your car is due for inspection or has an expired sticker, the responsibility will fall on the buyer to complete that process.

3. Run a Vehicle History Report and Collect Maintenance Records

Providing a vehicle history report can give buyers valuable insight into your car’s past. If you’re selling through a dealership, they’ll usually handle this. But if you’re selling privately, it’s worth purchasing and sharing this report to show the car’s history and condition.

Going a step further by offering maintenance records can further reassure buyers that the car has been well cared for, helping you negotiate a higher price whether you’re dealing with an individual or a dealer.

Regular oil changes, for instance, are a strong indicator that the car has been well cared for. 

If you don’t have receipts, check with your dealer, mechanic, or oil change center for a summary of your service history.

4. Get Original Sales Paperwork 

Even if you’re familiar with the basics like the year, make, model, and current mileage of your car, it’s essential to know the trim level—such as a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban LT—which might come with optional, high-demand features.

These options can boost your car’s resale value, so make sure you have a comprehensive list. This information can also help confirm any warranties that may still be active.

To ensure you haven’t overlooked anything, review your original sales documents or check the window sticker.

5. Add your Listing to Several Car Marketplaces

Whether you’re selling privately or through a dealer, it’s wise to get offers from multiple buyers.

If you’re going the private sale route, you’ll need to attract serious potential buyers. Your best bet is to create listings on several car marketplaces that have a strong buyer base.

Include quality photos, write a catchy yet thorough description, and publish your listing so buyers know your car is available. Keep in mind that some marketplaces may charge a listing fee.

6. Bring Paperwork

Be ready to finalize the sale on the spot if the buyer is interested. Bring your car title and all the paperwork you’ve gathered to the meeting, but keep it secure until it’s time to close the deal.

How to Prepare Yourself for Selling a Car in NJ?

To make selling your car in New Jersey a breeze, prepare all necessary paperwork in advance. Having your documents in order before buyers start showing interest can significantly boost your chances of closing a sale smoothly.

Here’s what you need to gather:

• Maintenance Records: Keep a detailed log of all repairs and services.
• Vehicle History Report: This helps buyers know the car’s background.
• Emission Testing Records: Proves your car meets state emissions requirements.
• Owner’s Manual: This can be a valuable resource for the buyer.
• Car Title: Crucial for transferring ownership.

And anything else which can be important for the sales process.

Ensure that the car title is in your name before listing your car. If your car is financed, you’ll need to settle any outstanding balance with your lender, who will then transfer the title to you. You can refer to this in-depth guide – How to Sell a Car With a Pending Loan: Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve misplaced the title or it’s damaged, you’ll need to obtain a replacement title. Schedule an appointment to complete the Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA). You’ll also need to provide proof of insurance or registration and pay a $60 fee for the new title

Selling and Transferring Your Car in New Jersey: Step-by-Step Guide

Congrats! You’ve found a buyer and are ready to finalize the sale.

If you’re selling to a dealership, the process is pretty straightforward and hassle-free. But if you’re selling privately, you’ll need to be careful and follow the proper steps to make sure everything’s done legally and correctly.

Sign the Title

As the seller, you’ll need to sign the back of the title to transfer ownership to the new buyer.

Important Note:

Be meticulous when filling out the title details. Errors, such as cross-outs, can invalidate the document and cost you $60 for a replacement. 

Fortunately, if the New Jersey MVC makes a mistake, corrections are free. Just submit a correction request with the original title and proof of the error.

Draft a Bill of Sale

Once you and the buyer agree to proceed, provide a bill of sale as required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. 

While you must still provide a clean, unencumbered title, the bill of sale is a useful document to have, especially if any issues arise with the buyer. 

According to the NJ MVC, your bill of sale should include:

• Buyer’s name and address
• Date of sale
• Odometer reading
• Sale price

You can use a Bill of Sale NJ template for this.

Remove and Surrender Your License Plates

New Jersey doesn’t have a specific “Release of Liability” form, but returning your old license plates to the DMV effectively cancels your vehicle registration in your name. Make sure to keep the receipt as proof.

If the buyer doesn’t register the car and something happens, like an accident, while the car is still registered under your name, you could be held responsible. So, your responsibility ends once you submit the plates and cancel the registration.

However, if you’re buying another vehicle and want to keep your license plates, you can transfer them to the new vehicle, at a local DMV office

This is easy if the new vehicle is registered in your name and is in the same vehicle class. Otherwise, you’ll need to get new plates. Either way, make sure to remove your plates to ensure a clean transition of ownership.

Tip: Inform the buyer in advance that you will be removing the license plates. This allows them to arrange for new plates before driving away with the car.

Do you Cancel Your Insurance?

After completing the sale, contact your insurance company to cancel the policy for the sold vehicle. Provide proof of the sale to prevent any future issues.

Buyer’s Responsibilities

The buyer must handle several tasks to finalize the purchase:

1. Sign the Title: Sign in the buyer’s section on the back of the title and provide their driver’s license or Entity Identification Number (EIN).
2. Visit MVC: They must visit a motor vehicle agency to transfer the title, complete the Vehicle Registration Application (Form BA-49) if required, and obtain new license plates. In New Jersey, ownership transfer can only take place in person at the MVC. An appointment can be scheduled online for convenience.
3. Pay Fees: This includes:

• Titling Fees: $60 for a standard vehicle, $85 for a financed vehicle with one lien, and $110 for a financed vehicle with two liens.
• Registration Fees: Varies by vehicle type; includes license plates.
• Sales Tax: 6.625% of the sale price.

The buyer needs to ensure the title transfer is completed within 10 days of the sale to avoid a $25 penalty.

Tip: For a smooth transaction, follow this order: sign the Bill of Sale, remove the plates, collect payment, sign the title, hand over the keys, and then drop off the plates at the MVC. This sequence protects both parties by ensuring that payment is secured before any transfer of title or keys.

Essential Tips for Selling Your Car

Selling your car privately requires a bit more vigilance compared to a dealership transaction. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth and secure sale:

• Be Confident

When selling your car, confidence is key. If you’ve set a reasonable price and done your research, don’t let yourself be pressured into accepting a lowball offer. 

It is essential to possess the basics of negotiation skills in a calm and relaxed manner, not being intimidated, and the ability to recognize and reject the worst offer to avoid it not to happen.

• Safeguard Your Personal Information

Before sharing any service records with potential buyers, make sure to obscure any personal information. This includes removing documents like original purchase contracts or credit applications from your glove compartment.

These documents may contain sensitive details such as your social security number or previous addresses, which you would never want to reach inappropriate hands.

• Prioritize Your Safety

Arrange to meet potential buyers in safe, well-lit locations like busy retail or restaurant parking lots with security cameras. It’s also a good idea to bring someone along with you, whether it’s for a test drive or the actual sale.

• Conduct a Safe Test Drive

Plan test drives with care. Make sure someone else is present during the drive, check with your insurance to ensure coverage for additional drivers, and refuse any unusual or suspicious requests. This helps keep both you and the vehicle safe.

• Choose Legitimate Payment Methods

For payment, prioritize secure options. While cash is ideal for small transactions, large sales are better handled with digital payments or escrow services.

Online Payments: Opt for touchless online payment methods when possible. These options protect your banking information and keep the transaction secure.

Escrow Services: For added security, consider using an escrow service These services hold the buyer’s funds until the transaction is complete, providing protection against fraud for both parties. Ensure you use reputable, verifiable escrow services to avoid scams.

Cashier’s Checks: If a cashier’s check is the only option, exercise caution. Although these checks are drawn directly from a bank, they can still be counterfeit. To avoid issues, meet the buyer at their bank to verify the check’s authenticity during business hours.

Get the Best Price: Selling Your Car with Schumacher Used

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process of selling your car, visiting a trusted certified dealership like Schumacher Used could be your best move. Here’s how we can help you get the best deal:

Get a Fair Valuation

Whether you’re looking to sell outright or trade-in, having a baseline offer from a reputable dealer gives you a clear idea of your vehicle’s worth.

Consider visiting Schumacher Used to get a professional valuation of your car. If you like the offer you can cash it out, or use it as a trade-in value. We apply absolutely no pressure to accept the same.

Selling or Trading-In

Weather selling or Trading-In, working directly with a trusted dealer often simplifies the process. At Schumacher Used, the team will guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and efficient transaction. They’ll handle all the paperwork, saving you from the hassle of dealing with potential buyers directly.

Why Schumacher Used is Your Best Bet

As one of the top-rated dealerships in the state, with nearly a century of service, we pride ourselves on offering top dollar for quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our goal is to make the selling process as simple and transparent as possible.

Just use our ‘value your car’ calculator designed with Kelly Blue Book, and we’ll provide an offer to buy your car today, valid for up to 7 days.

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