With so much competition out there on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Carsales, you need to work hard to make your listing stand out. The difference between a well-constructed listing and a shabby one whipped up in 2-minutes can quite literally mean 1,000s of dollars difference in the price you fetch for your car. Before getting all the details on how to create the perfect listing, it's worth considering if a private sale is the best option for you.
On average in Australia, it takes roughly 60 days to sell your car privately, and with the increase in scams, time wasted from tyre kickers, and the hassle of managing the whole ordeal by yourself, the indirect costs certainly weigh up. If you're interested in fetching a great price for your car with none of the hassle and a quick turnaround, let AutoFlip list your vehicle for free to our network of 1,000 dealers who competitively bid. With licensed dealers only on our platform, you'll get no time wasters and secure a fair price fast. If that doesn't sound like the right option for you, then make the most of the information below and we wish you all the best on your selling journey!
What buyers look for in a car ad
Buyers are typically looking for the following key information in a car ad:
1. Price:
Buyers want to know if the car falls within their budget. Make sure your price expectations are clear and realistic.
2. Vehicle Specifications:
Highlight the make, model, year, mileage, and any special features or upgrades your car has. The more detail the better.
3. Maintenance History:
Buyers appreciate a well-maintained car. Include details about regular maintenance and any recent repairs or service information.
4. Vehicle History:
Be transparent about any accidents, damage, or title issues the car has experienced.
5. Contact Information:
Ensure potential buyers can easily reach you. Provide a phone number or email address and be available for enquiries.
Essential information to include in your listing
In order to know how to write a car ad that’s effective, it's crucial to provide potential buyers with all the necessary details. Here's a checklist of essential information to include:
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This unique code provides information about the car's history and is often requested by serious buyers.
Title Status: When considering what to put in a car ad, ensure you are upfront about the title status, whether it's clear, salvaged, or branded. This information can significantly influence a buyer's decision.
Condition: Describe the overall condition of the car, both mechanically and cosmetically. Mention any recent repairs or maintenance, and honestly evaluate any wear and tear.
Upgrades and Features: Highlight any upgrades or special features that set your car apart. Whether it's custom rims, a premium sound system or a sunroof, showcasing these unique selling points can attract more potential buyers.
Service Records: Mention if you have records of regular maintenance or recent service.
Fuel Efficiency: Specify the car's gas mileage to attract eco-conscious buyers.
Ownership History: Mention if you are the original owner or if the car has had multiple owners.
Warranty Information: If your car has a transferable warranty, be sure to provide details about it in your listing. This can offer peace of mind to buyers and make your car more attractive, especially if the warranty coverage is extensive.
Test Drive and Inspection: Encourage potential buyers to schedule a test drive or inspection.
High quality photos and visuals
A picture is worth a thousand words, and in the world of car listings, it's often worth much more. High-quality photos can make your ad stand out and increase interest in your vehicle.
When taking photos for your car listing, consider these tips:
Take Clear and Well-Lit Photos: Ensure that the images are sharp, well-lit, and showcase the car from multiple angles. Opt for natural light when possible.
Highlight Key Features: Capture photos of the interior, exterior, engine, and any unique features.
Clean the Car: Clean and detail the car before taking photos to present it in the best possible light. A freshly washed and waxed car not only looks more appealing but also suggests that it has been well cared for.
Showcase Imperfections: Be honest and include photos of any dents, scratches, or blemishes. It’s far better to be upfront rather than mislead potential buyers.
Use High-Resolution Images: High-resolution images provide a more professional look. Check out how to take high quality photos with our guide to car photography.
The importance of honesty and transparency
Honesty is the foundation of knowing how to write a car ad that’s impactful. Misrepresenting your vehicle can lead to distrust and wasted time for both you and potential buyers. There are many reasons why honesty and transparency matter including:
Builds Trust: Accurate descriptions and clear photos build trust with buyers.
Saves Time: Honest car listings attract genuinely interested buyers, reducing the number of inquiries from those expecting something different.
Avoids Legal Issues: Misrepresentation can lead to legal trouble or disputes.
How to make your ad stand out
To make your car listing stand out in a crowded market, consider these additional tips:
Craft a Compelling Title: Your title should be catchy, yet concise, and should include essential details like the make, model, and year. Potential buyers should be able to get a clear idea of your car at a single glance.
Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords to improve your car listing's visibility in online searches.
Write a Captivating Description: Describe the car's history and experience of driving it to evoke emotions in potential buyers.
Set a Competitive Price: Research the market to ensure your pricing is competitive.
Respond Promptly: Answer enquiries quickly to keep potential buyers engaged.
Save yourself the hassle of writing a car listing by using AutoFlip
As you can see, creating the perfect car listing can be a time-consuming process. If you want to save yourself the hassle, AutoFlip is here to help. With AutoFlip, you simply need to provide your vehicle information (including photos if available) to access our network of 1000+ trusted dealers who compete to buy your car. AutoFlip's user-friendly platform guides you through the process, so you can sell your car from the comfort of your own home.
With the hassle of writing, advertising and negotiating removed, AutoFlip is a stress-free solution that connects you with serious buyers who are genuinely interested in purchasing your vehicle. Best of all, if there’s no sale, there’s no fee. Quick, simple and easy. Embrace a seamless selling experience with AutoFlip.
