OK. You have an older Ford Tempo. It has served you well but it's time to sell. Or perhaps it's just time to trade up. Regardless, you need to decide what to do.
Well, you can go "low-tech." You can make your signs, park your Tempo on a busy street, and see what happens. Most of us have sold vehicles like this. It's fun. But it is also work. You have to reposition your Tempo often during the day, you have to make or purchase the signs, and you have to park your Tempo on a street where people will see it.
But the internet can make it happen much differently. An internet ad gives you a lot of coverage. Your local newspaper runs it but other internet carriers also pick it up. This includes auto seller publications. Internet ads also allow you to include as much text as you want and run a lot of pictures of your Tempo, all at no extra cost. (Price running pictures in an ordinary print ad. It will cost you a small fortune.)
After you start getting inquires about your Tempo, you take on the role of a used car salesperson. But don't worry. It can be fun! You can show your possible buyers all of your Ford Tempo's special features and allow them test drive it. Remember: show them everything good about the car. Show them the engine compartment, the interior, the trunk area, and the tires. Point out all the features of your Ford Tempo.
But before showing the Tempo, be sure to have any repairs taken care of. Don't be embarrassed by leaking oil, a bad muffler, a cracked windshield, or grinding brakes. Also be sure your Tempo is as clean as you can make it. Wash then polish the exterior, wash the wheels and the tires, then apply a wheel protectant and a tire dressing. Thoroughly clean all the glass and mirrors.
Inside clean the Tempo's steering wheel, the dashboard and all other vinyl areas with a high-quality vinyl cleaner. Vacuum the upholstery and the carpeting, removing any spots. Wash the mirrors and interior windows. Clean the inside of the glove compartment and the ashtrays. Vacuum the trunk. If you if the engine compartment is really grimy, have it degreased so it is as grime-free and as clean as you can make it.
If you have an extended warranty, you can tell your customers that they transfer it for a small charge. And remember to mention the benefits of the extended warranty and its coverage.
Talk up your Ford Tempo. Explain the fact that it is made by Ford, one of the world's most respected car companies. Show off the aerodynamic design. Tout the other selling points like if the Tempo has low mileage, if you have only highway miles on it, etc. If you have had new brakes or new tires installed lately, point them out. If you have had any major repairs done on your Tempo, like if you had the transmission rebuilt or a new radiator installed, tell them about it. Back it up with paperwork if you have it.
If a buyer would like to take your Tempo to a mechanic and have it inspected, encourage them to do so. The potential buyer may want time to think about purchasing your Tempo and he or she may need time to arrange insurance and financing. Allow them this time but continue showing your Tempo to other potential buyers; that is, unless you receive a substantial down payment.
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