Do’s and Don’ts When Selling a Car

Private‑party car sales don’t have to be stressful. Here are the essentials to protect yourself and save time.

Do’s

• Do clean and photograph in daylight (interior + exterior + engine bay)
• Do gather records: maintenance, recalls, title, spare keys
• Do list the VIN and major options (trim, packages, driver aids)
• Do use a QR listing for full photo gallery, specs, and FAQs
• Do meet in a safe, public place (bank parking lot is ideal)

Don’ts

• Don’t accept cashier’s checks from unknown banks without verification
• Don’t allow solo test drives—ride along and verify a valid license
• Don’t hide issues; honesty avoids returns and chargebacks
• Don’t keep your home address on the public listing

Pricing that works

• Check comps with similar trim/miles/options
• Call out recent big maintenance (tires, brakes, timing belt) to justify price

Paperwork checklist (varies by state)

• Title signed correctly (seller + buyer sections)
• Bill of sale with VIN, price, date, and “as‑is” wording
• Release of liability / notice of transfer filed promptly
• Smog/emissions if required

Why add a QR code sign

• On‑street interest can scan and see the full listing instantly
• Your QR page answers common questions: service records, accident history, ownership
• Fewer messages like “Is this still available?”

Sell safer, faster, and with less back‑and‑forth by letting the QR page speak for you.