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How do I sell a car to a family member?

How do I sell a car to someone I know? My younger brother is going off to college soon and he has mentioned numerous times that he will need his own car. It just so happens I am getting a new car and want to sell my old one.

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Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“It can be tricky selling a car to a family member, but with the right approach, it can work out well for both parties! The most helpful thing you can do for your prospective buyer is to be open and transparent about your car’s current and past condition.
Here’s how:
  • Disclose any accidents, damages, or issues with the vehicle: Regardless if it was a harmless fender bender or a noticeable issue with one of the tires, it is always better to inform the buyer early on rather than have them discover it later.
  • Recommend an independent inspection: If you and your brother settle on a price and he officially buys your vehicle, from that point on, any issues with the vehicle will be his responsibility. So get a thorough inspection from a trusted mechanic. Typically, the buyer pays for this.
  • Suggest a vehicle history report: To get an extensive report that documents past owners, services, and major incidents involving the vehicle, use
    CARFAX
    or AutoCheck.
  • Provide records of services and repairs: Provide receipts if you have them and write down the name of your mechanic so your brother can contact this person if he has any questions.
Lastly, remember that you must also
remove your name from the car title
to transfer ownership to your brother.
Best of luck selling your car!
Since you plan to buy a new vehicle, make sure you have the right car insurance coverage—and aren’t overpaying for it. The
Jerry
app is a good place to start. A licensed broker, Jerry does all the hard work of gathering quotes from the top name-brand insurance companies, buying new car insurance, and helping you cancel your old policy for free!”
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