How to Get the Best Price When Selling a Prestige Car

Selling a prestigious or luxury car like requires more care and strategy than selling a standard family car.

10:44 06 June 2024

Selling a prestigious or luxury car like an Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche or Rolls-Royce requires more care and strategy than selling a standard family car. Prestige cars hold their value remarkably well, so with the right approach you can maximise your sale price. Follow these tips to get the very best price.

Research Current Prices

Before listing your prestige car for sale, thoroughly research the current market prices for similar make, model and year vehicles. Price it too low and you’ll be giving away thousands of pounds unnecessarily. Take your time researching prices so you can pitch your asking price just right.

Get Professional Valuations

Arrange for a professional valuation from a specialist prestige car dealer. They have up-to-date expertise on which models hold value well and can inspect your specific car to accurately assess its condition. Dealers that offer sale or return cars know how to get the best possible price for your car.

Be wary of online instant valuation tools – they often underestimate prestige car prices. A reputable dealer can provide a detailed valuation report on headed paper to verify your asking price. This adds credibility when negotiating with buyers and their agents. Also request a valuer’s thoughts on pricing strategy and recommended sale channels.

Prepare the Car Thoroughly

Prestige cars sell best when presented in absolutely pristine, showroom condition. Detailing the exterior and interior will maximise the value. Correct any minor paintwork defects like stone chips and light scratches. Deep clean and condition the leather seats and carpets. Ensure all functions and electronics are working flawlessly. Service the car and address any mechanical issues, even minor ones. Provide a fully stamped service history record. Buyers want perfection from a prestige marque, so preparation and presentation are key. Supply originals of manuals, documents and spare keys too. 

Sell Privately, Not Part-Exchange

You may get more selling privately but it takes more time and effort. Photograph the car inside and out, writing detailed descriptions for classified ads. Expect potential buyers to rigorously inspect your car, so be prepared for exhaustive questioning about service history, repairs and any issues. Be honest about any damage or wear and have service documents available. Field calls and emails promptly and professionally. Avoid over-inflating your description – transparency builds trust and credible buyers.

Consider Auction Sale Channels

Specialist auctioneers achieve excellent prestige car prices, selling at venues where wealthy buyers compete. The auction house charges seller’s commissions, but their brand, marketing and targeted buyer database can achieve higher sale prices than classified ads. They can also handle documentation, vehicle collection and secure payment. Consider a reserve price auction sale, but be prepared to lose out if bidding doesn’t meet your minimum. 

Negotiate Politely But Firmly

When buyers make offers below your asking price, negotiate politely and professionally. Don’t take lowball offers personally. Calmly stand your ground on price, politely declining offers you feel are too low, making clear you believe your price is fair based on valuations and market prices. Let the buyer increase their offer until you reach an agreeable price. Avoid getting emotionally attached or desperate for a quick sale. With patience and persistence, you can negotiate the full value for your prestige car.

With the right strategy, you’ll secure the premium price a prestige car deserves.