How to Sell Your Car Privately in the UK: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Selling your car privately in the UK can feel challenging at first — especially with so many online platforms and dealers competing for your attention. But selling directly from owner to buyer is often the smartest choice: you stay in control, avoid unnecessary commissions, and often get a higher price for your vehicle.
1. Prepare Your Car for Sale
First impressions matter. Before you list your car, spend a little time making sure it looks its best:
- Clean inside and out: A professional valet or a detailed wash makes a big difference.
- Fix minor issues: Replace bulbs, wipers, or small trim parts that are cheap but noticeable.
- Check your paperwork: Have the V5C logbook, MOT certificate, and service history ready.
- Take clear photos: Good lighting (ideally daylight), multiple angles, and interior shots build buyer confidence.
2. Research the Right Price
Check similar models on well-known platforms such as AutoTrader, Motors.co.uk, and FromOwner.co.uk to see current asking prices. Be realistic — set your price slightly above your lowest acceptable figure so you have room to negotiate.
3. Write a Clear and Honest Description
Honesty sells. Include the key details buyers look for:
- Make, model, year, mileage, engine, transmission
- Number of owners and MOT expiry date
- Condition and any recent maintenance or upgrades
- Contact details and preferred method of communication
Keep your tone simple, friendly, and straightforward — buyers appreciate transparency more than fancy words.
4. Choose the Right Platform
When selling privately, you want a marketplace where real people buy from real owners. That’s why FromOwner.co.uk was built — a commission-free classifieds site focused entirely on direct-from-owner listings. No dealers, no hidden fees, and genuine UK buyers.
5. Manage Enquiries Safely
Once your listing goes live, you’ll start receiving messages. Be prepared and stay safe:
- Reply promptly but don’t share personal information too early.
- Meet in a public, well-lit place or near your home only if you feel comfortable.
- Always accompany potential buyers during test drives — and check they have valid insurance.
- Watch out for scammers who offer to pay without viewing the car.
6. Finalise the Sale
When you’ve agreed a price, make sure to handle payment and paperwork correctly:
- Preferred payment methods: Bank transfer (instant) or cash in person. Avoid cheques or money orders.
- Provide a written receipt: Include both names, car details, sale price, date, and signatures.
- Inform the DVLA: Use the official DVLA website to transfer ownership online — it’s instant and free.
7. Keep Records for Your Own Safety
Keep a copy of the sale receipt, the buyer’s details, and the confirmation email from the DVLA. These documents protect you if there’s any dispute or traffic fine issued after the sale.
8. Why Selling from Owner is the Future
More UK drivers are skipping dealerships and going direct. The benefits are obvious:
- No dealer mark-ups or commissions
- Faster transactions between genuine individuals
- Full control over pricing and communication
- Higher trust when both sides are verified users
At FromOwner.co.uk, every listing comes directly from real people — no middlemen, no commissions, just honest deals between owners and buyers across the UK.