- There are a few basics to know before selling your car.for sale image by pdesign from Fotolia.com
Selling a car seems as simple as putting a for sale sign in the window and turning over the keys once you've been paid. If you live in the state of Ohio, there are a few laws you need to follow before someone else drives off with the car. Making sure the deal is done legally may help protect you in the long run. - Determine the price of the vehicle. The mileage, condition and model/make of the car are all factors that will affect the price. In Ohio, a professional inspector must assess the vehicle in order to obtain a vehicle inspection report that is required to complete the Department of Motor Vehicle's title transfer process. Check with your county's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) or a trusted mechanic for a reputable professional to aid you in this process.
- Marketing the car to potential buyers by advertising in a local paper, making flyers or posting an ad online are all great ideas. However, be aware that in Ohio, potential buyers are protected by Lemon Laws. Lemon Laws provide a form of compensation to consumers who unknowingly purchased a defective vehicle. Any problems or known defects with the vehicle must be disclosed prior to the sale completion.
- The most important part of selling a vehicle is transferring the title to the new owner. Contact your local county BMV for an official Ohio state title transfer application. This will need to be filled out by both the seller and the buyer of the vehicle in the presence of a notary. The inspection report and an odometer reading will also be required at this time.
- Writing a contract to complete the sale of the vehicle may help protect you in the future. A local attorney can write a contract for a small fee. In Ohio, having a contract is not a legal requirement.
- In Ohio, it is illegal to sell cars directly off of the street if you are an automobile dealer. Dealers and professional sales people must have proper licensing documentation.
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