Being a parent means life can be pretty hectic. So when it’s time to get a new car, it can be overwhelming. It helps to have some strategies for making the process go as smoothly as possible. Cars, buying, and selling have all changed over the years, and when it comes to kids, you want to have the least stressful process as possible.
Have a New Car Picked Out First
Spend some time doing some research, and check out cars at the dealership. You want to bring the kids with you and see how a vehicle fits your family. Maybe you have a new baby and are considering a minivan, or have teens and you want to consider leg room for long trips. While bringing kids to the dealership can be a chore, take your time and don’t rush into a decision. Do your research so that you know what features are available for your family. There are always new features and safety standards, and you should learn what you can before shopping.
Clean Out Your Car
While you can sell a messy car, it always helps if you can do a good job of getting your car cleaned out. Plus, a lot can accumulate in your car and you don’t want to leave anything behind when you get rid of it. I remember buying a used car and finding a bunch of things the previous owner had lost in their car.
​​​​​​​This means a thorough cleaning, from the sippy cup that rolled under the seat 3 weeks ago to scraping off the spongebob stickers your toddler stuck to the window. Make sure to check carefully between and under seats. We always find things the kids lost weeks or even months prior!
Sell Online
We haven’t had to sell a car for a while now, but I have memories of taking my toddlers to the dealership to deal with trading in our old car. I very clearly remember having to keep the kids busy while we were haggling with the dealership, and it was certainly a challenge!
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What great tips to make such a stressful endeavor a little easier. Definitely going to reference back to this when getting ready to see our car!!
Cleaning out my car may take all day at the moment :-p Not sure it will ever be ready to sell with 4 kids in and out all day!
These tips are super helpful. You’re definitely right about cleaning out the car. Also, when you have found a buyer, make sure to check all the compartments of the car and clear out all your belongings. The last time I sold my car, I forgot my pair of sunglasses and a couple of CDs inside one of the compartments.
This is great! You’ve gotta make your car look as good as possible! Clean it inside and out! 🙂
Great tips! I’m hoping to trade my car in soon and will definitely keep this in mind.