Copyright dailyrecord
Selling a car can be a relatively big deal and take up a lot of time and effort. However many sellers are loosing out on hundreds, even thousands of pounds simply by rushing the process. While factors such as mileage, age and make affect the value of the car, presentation and preparation can often make just as much of a difference to the final sale price. Now an expert has shared five tips to boost the value of your car , ensuring your not loosing out on any money in the process. According to Charlie Rei, Company Director at Riverside Car Sales , a little preparation before listing your car can dramatically increase both its appeal and final sale price. "The difference between an average sale and an excellent one often comes down to preparation," the expert reveals. "There are five simple things sellers can do to boost their car’s resale value by thousands of pounds." He continues: "These five steps work because they address reliability, transparency and condition, which are all important buyer concerns." Charlie has put together five tips that can turn a good sale into a great one. One of the simplest ways to increase a vehicle's value is by ensuring it comes with a full 12 month MOT. While it's legal to sell a car without one, most buyers are cautious about motors with expired or soon-to-be expired certificates. The expert explains: " A full 12-month MOT instantly adds value because it removes uncertainty for the buyer. They know the car has recently passed safety and emissions standards. "This peace of mind typically translates to several hundred pounds more in the sale price." According to Charlie, spending £40 to £55 on a test before selling can yield returns of £300-£500 or more, particularly on vehicles worth over £5,000. For electric car owners, the battery is the heart of the car and its condition can heavily influence resale value. Charlie advises selling to obtain an official battery health reports from an authorised service centre before listing the car for sale. "Battery degradation is the main concern for anyone buying a used EV," Charlie notes. "An official report showing the battery retains 85–90 percent or more of its original capacity can justify a premium of £1,000–£2,000. On the other hand, the absence of a battery health report raises red flags and can significantly reduce what buyers are willing to pay." Battery diagnostics can start at around £50, ranging up to £200 depending on the vehicle and depth of testing - a small price for a significant return. Scratched alloy wheels, chipped paintwork and scuffed bumpers may seem minor, but the expert reveals that these can seriously harm the buyers impression of the car. "First impressions matter enormously," says Charlie. "A buyer who notices multiple minor defects will often assume there are hidden problems too. Addressing these issues shows that you cared about the vehicle, which is a positive sign for prospective buyers." Professional repairs are often affordable. Alloy wheel refurbishment costs £50–£90 per wheel, and minor paintwork corrections start at £40–£60. These quick fixes can return three to five times their cost by improving the car's perceived value. A complete service history remains one of the most valuable assets when selling a used car. It helps to show that the vehicle has been maintained according to manufacturer standards, helping reassure buyers about its mechanically condition. The expert explains: " Cars with full service history routinely command £500–£1,500 more than identical models with incomplete records. “If you've missed a service, it's worth having the car serviced before sale. The cost of a service, which is typically £150–£300, is far less than the value you'll lose without that documentation." Whether digital or paper-based, make sure your records are neatly organised and available for buyers to review. Missing spare keys can raise eyebrows among buyers and can cost you money. Charlie says: "Having two fully functional keys signals that the car has been properly looked after. "If you’ve lost the spare, it’s almost always worth having a replacement programmed before selling. The investment typically pays for itself and increases buyer confidence."
