A Classic Car Show can be the perfect place to sell a classic car. However here are some basic preparations that should be made before attempting to sell. Make sure the car is in running condition, understand the value of the vehicle and understand how to price the vehicle.

Car Mechanics

Not all classic cars can be driven on the street, but a buyer will certainly want to know if the vehicle runs. Check with a mechanic and get a detailed list of any items that will need repair. Get an estimate on the cost of each repair so you can negotiate knowledgably with a prospective buyer. If repairs are minor go ahead and make them before selling, but adjust the price upwards to cover the cost.

Along with the mechanics it is a good idea to understand what other items may need repair on the vehicle. Will the seats need to be recovered?  Will parts of the dashboard need to be replaced? What about rust on the body or paint that needs to be redone?  Understanding what needs to be done to restore the vehicle is critical to understanding the value and price for the car.

Research Value

Classic car values fluctuate and getting the most current information is vital. The value of the vehicle is also influenced by the level and expertise of restoration. A Mustang that has been sitting in a garage for 40 years will have a very different value than one that has been sitting outside in a yard. A Corvette that has been restored with all original parts will have far more value than one that used whatever was available. The value of a classic car can also be influenced by what the manufacturer is doing. For example, if they release a new version of an old classic that can impact the value of the classic.

Research Pricing

Pricing is not the same as value, though they are closely related.  Pricing is influenced by value, but also by outside factors such as the economy, time of year and location of the sale. When the economy is bad people are not going to pay as much for the luxury of a classic car, no matter how much restoration was done. Prices also fluctuate during the year so it is a good idea to monitor pricing for a couple of weeks or months to determine the best time to sell. Waiting a couple of weeks can mean getting thousands of dollars more for a vehicle.

The location of the sale is another important factor. Regional factors such as the cost of living will impact the price of a car. When selling live at a classic car show there will be other vehicles for buyers to compare. This makes understanding the value of your vehicle and being able to explain the price in terms of value even more important.

Marketing a classic car for sale can be very time consuming but selling at a classic car show can eliminate a lot of the hassle. These shows, like the Pomona Swap Meet, draw in crowds of thousands who may be looking for that perfect vehicle. And you are in luck because the Pomona Swap Meet is this Sunday, March 3rd. Bring your classic to sell and come to enjoy the crowds of other car fans, perfect 70 degree weather, icy cold beer and car parts that go on for miles! And if you can’t come out this weekend, check out the Pomona Classifieds as an alternative way to sell your classic.