Collector cars are cherished pieces of automotive history, and selling one can be a significant decision.
If you’re contemplating selling your prized possession, knowing where to sell a collector car and how to connect effectively with potential buyers who will appreciate its worth is crucial.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the process successfully.
Table of Contents
Best Places to Sell Your Collector Car
The best place to sell your collector car will depend on factors such as how quickly you want to sell, how much effort you’re willing to put into the selling process, and the specific audience you want to reach.
| Auction Site | Process | Fees | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| eBay Motors | Create a listing, respond to inquiries | Insertion fee, successful listing fee | eBay Motors |
| Bring A Trailer | Submit vehicle, they create listing | $99 listing fee, no commission | Bring A Trailer |
| Hemmings Auctions | Fill out consignment request form, they create listing | $99.95 listing fee, no commission | Hemmings Auctions |
| Barrett Jackson | Complete a Preliminary Consignment Request Form, they contact you with more info | Entry fee, seller’s commission | Barrett Jackson |
| Mecum | Call or fill out an online form, they guide you through the process | Consignment entry fees ($350 – $1000), 6% or 10% seller fee | Mecum |
Online Auction Sites:
Online auction platforms provide a global marketplace that connects sellers with potential buyers. Here are some popular online auction sites:
eBay Motors
- Process: Create a listing with detailed descriptions and high-quality photos. Respond promptly to inquiries.
- Fees: Insertion fee (refundable if the car sells), successful listing fee based on the final sale price.
- Link: eBay Motors
Bring A Trailer
- Process: Submit your vehicle for auction. If accepted, they will write up a description, take professional photographs, and list your vehicle on their site.
- Fees: $99 listing fee, no seller commission.
- Link: Bring A Trailer
Hemmings Auctions
- Process: Fill out a consignment request form. If accepted, Hemmings will create a professional listing for your vehicle.
- Fees: $99.95 listing fee, no seller commission.
- Link: Hemmings Auctions
Barrett Jackson
- Process: Complete a Preliminary Consignment Request Form, including photos and a copy of your title, front and back. Barrett-Jackson will contact you with more information on pricing, estimated value, and availability at upcoming auctions.
- Fees: The entry fee is determined by the day and time of your Lot entry and includes display space. Seller’s commission percentage of the hammer price.
- Link: Barrett Jackson
Mecum
- Process: Call or fill out an online form to speak with a dedicated consignment agent. Mecum will guide you through the entire process.
- Fees: Consignment entry fees run from $350 – $1000 plus a 6% seller fee (no reserve) or 10% seller fee (reserve). Consignment entry fees are non-refundable. Seller fees are only charged if the vehicle is sold.
- Link: Mecum
Dealerships
Dealerships that specialize in collector cars can handle the entire sale process but typically take a commission on the final sale price.
Private Sales
Selling your car privately gives you more control over the selling process but requires more effort on your part, not to mention it opens up all sorts of safety and fraud concerns.
Car Shows
Car shows might not typically be somewhere you think of advertising a car, but if you think about it, they attract car exactly who you need to sell your car:
Car enthusiasts!
Check with any car shows you attend beforehand to see if they have a problem with you putting a for sale sign on your vehicle.
Understanding Your Collector Car’s Value
Before you can decide where to sell your collector car, it’s essential to understand its value. The market value of collector cars can vary significantly based on factors such as:
- Make
- Model
- Year
- Condition
- Rarity
- Historical significance
Resources like the Hagerty Valuation Tool can provide a good starting point for determining your car’s value. For a more precise valuation, consider getting a professional appraisal.
Using Ebay To Get Your Collector Car Value
When I was a dealer, and we had a car that was somewhat rare, we encountered a similar issue you have, which is that traditional car valuation tools don’t really work because there just aren’t enough sales in the system for them to be very accurate.
So, our go-to value tool was eBay Motors.
On eBay, you can not only see what people are asking and bidding, but you can also look up previous sales!
A lot of people don’t know that, and even more, people forget that they know that, but thanks to Autohitch:
Now you do!
Preparing Your Collector Car for Sale
Once you’ve determined your car’s value, the next step is to prepare it for sale. This process involves both mechanical and cosmetic preparation:
- Mechanical: Ensure your car is in good running condition by addressing any mechanical issues.
- Cosmetic: Clean and detail your car to make it look its best.
Another crucial aspect of preparation is compiling a detailed vehicle history. This should include maintenance records, restoration details, and any other information that demonstrates the car’s condition and authenticity.
Creating a Compelling Listing
Whether you’re selling your collector car on an online platform, through a dealership, or at a car show, creating a compelling listing is crucial. Here’s how to create an effective listing:
- Start with a catchy title.
- Write a detailed description of your car.
- Include high-quality photos.
- Be responsive to inquiries from potential buyers.
Setting a Fair Price
Setting a fair price for your collector car is crucial for a successful sale. Here’s how to set a fair price:
- Research similar cars on the market.
- Consider getting a professional appraisal.
- Factor in any fees or commissions if you’re selling through a dealership or online platform.
- Be open to negotiation, but also have a minimum price in mind.
Understanding the Role of Timing in Selling Your Collector Car
The timing of your sale can significantly impact the success of your transaction. Certain times of the year may be more favorable for selling collector cars. For instance, spring and summer are often considered the best seasons to sell, as nice weather can make people more interested in buying cars.
Conclusion
Selling a collector car involves careful planning, preparation, and research. By understanding your car’s value, preparing it for sale, choosing the right selling platform, creating a compelling listing, setting a fair price, and timing your sale right, you can navigate the process successfully. Whether you’re selling a vintage muscle car or a classic roadster, this comprehensive guide has got you covered on where to sell a collector car.
Remember to keep your listing updated and respond promptly to potential buyers. With patience and persistence, you’ll be able to find the right buyer who will appreciate your collector car’s worth.
