How to Set a Fair Car Price for Private Sale using Edmunds
Posted by A.J. on Jun-7-2010 under Car Value, Edmunds, Selling a Used Car
Setting a fair car price is key when it comes to private car sales. Although you may not t have all of the tools that a dealership might have when it comes to surveying the market and setting a fair price, you do have Edmunds. Edmunds has a host of online tools that will help you set a fair price for your car in preparation for a private sale. Here’s how to set a fair car price for selling your car.
- Go over to the Edmunds website and access the “Appraise a Car” link. You’ll find it by clicking on Used Cars and then right beneath the Used Cars text you’ll find Appraise a Car.
- Click on a series of links. First you’ll have to click on the link for the make of your car, then link for the year of the car and finally the link for your car’s model. At this point, Edmunds will give you a car price for a private sale, but this price isn’t the one you want. You want a fair car price that’s tailored specifically for your car. So, you need to continue the car appraisal process.
- Enter details about your car. Since you’re selling the car click the “Sell” option and enter the car color, mileage and check off all optional equipment that applies. The more information you enter, the more accurate your pricing will be.
- Tell Edmunds the condition of your car. Select the option that bests describes your car’s interior, exterior and mechanical soundness. Most used cars fall into the average category, but if your car is in exceptional shape, select “outstanding.”
- Confirm your zip code and get your pricing report.
Make sure to print a copy of the report and keep a copy in the glove compartment. This way potential buyers can see what the car is actually worth before you start the negotiating process.

