Best Times to Get More for Your Trade

As you look toward 2020, it’s the time of year when people are painting themselves a picture of what the new year will hold for them, who they’ll be at the end of it. If your picture for next year includes you in a new car, you’re probably already doing some research about trading your old one in. You’ll find a plethora of information about what needs to be in order before you trade in your vehicle, but what about when you should plan to trade it in? Are there certain times of the year where you can make more for your trade-in than others? Do you need to act fast or should wait a little while? Here are some things to consider before you rush your vehicle to the nearest dealership to trade it in.

After You’ve Done Your Research

The best time to trade your vehicle in, really, is when it’s not dire. When you don’t need to. This gives you the time you need to do some research, to figure out what you’re looking for and what you’ll need to get there. It also allows you to understand what you can expect to get for your vehicle, and if there are any ways for you to increase the value of your vehicle before you turn it in.

Not Right Now

We’re about to hit the heart of winter, and unfortunately, that means you’re not likely to get top dollar for your trade-in this time of year. Spring and summer are better choices for many reasons. At the end of the year, in the throes of the holiday season, people are stressed, budgets are tight, and Black Friday purchases take out a large chunk of the discretionary income that might have gone to vehicle purchases in the first place. In the spring and summer, the market is higher, people are enjoying driving more, and are often in a better place financially to consider a purchase like this.

Before the Next Model Year

There’s a lot of value in selling your vehicle before it’s another model year old. A 2018 vehicle sells a lot better before the 2019 models are out. That stands true for vehicles further removed from their “new” status, too. Potential buyers take the model year into consideration for a number of reasons. They may be looking for a newer technological feature, they may be looking for something more easily serviced, or they may only want a vehicle with a certain number of years under its belt. If you’re looking to sell your vehicle in the next year, make sure you’re aware of when your manufacturer puts out their new model years and try to trade it in before that happens.

When Market Value Is High

This one is tricky and variable, but there are a number of market value calculators out there that can help you get a better idea of where your vehicle stands. Market value is regularly fluctuating and shifting, so it’s a good idea to check it frequently as you do your research and start your decision-making process.

Trading in your vehicle for a new ride is always an exciting prospect, but you should get the best value possible when you do. Use this information to help make your trade in day a pleasant surprise instead of receiving a disappointing offer.