When it’s time to upgrade your driving experience, you may need to sell or trade in your vehicle. Either method can help you recoup some cash on your initial investment, giving you some money to put toward your next vehicle. However, since each approach works differently, you may find that one does a better job of helping you achieve your end goals. To help you better gauge this decision, here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of car trade-ins and selling independently.   

Selling vs. Trading In Vehicles

Pros & Cons of Selling Your Car

When you sell a car, it’s up to you to take care of all aspects of the transaction. For example, you’ll need to place an ad, inform interested buyers, and arrange test drives. Once the car is sold, you’ll need to be diligent about making sure the title and registration are properly transferred through the DMV.

Although it can take more time and effort to sell a vehicle, some prefer this approach because it allows them to have control over the haggling. As a result, they may get a better value for the vehicle than what they’d get by trading in. Keep in mind, however, that you’ll likely be paying full sales tax on the next vehicle you buy.

Pros & Cons of Trading In Your Car

To trade in your car, you simply need to bring your vehicle and related paperwork to the used car dealership of your choice. The dealer will then assess the quality of the automobile and make an offer. This value will be applied to the next purchase you make off the lot.

Simplicity is the main appeal of car trade-ins. With this method, you can get rid of your old vehicle quickly and with minimal effort. While you may not be able to haggle with a dealership as much as an independent buyer, you can expect to get the fair market wholesale value for your vehicle.

When you apply the trade-in value to your dealership purchase, you may also be able to reduce the sales tax amount on your new car.

When you’re ready to start the car trade-in process, head to Discount Auto Sales in Mountain Home, AR. Focused on simplifying the auto sales process, this team makes competitive offers so you can roll off the lot in your next car with confidence. When it’s time to pick your new ride, you can count on this dealership to provide a wide selection of affordable pre-owned vehicles—including those from Ford®, Nissan®, and Toyota®. Check out this dealer online to review their current inventory or call (870) 425-1775 to ask about current offers and financing opportunities.