Decision: Selling My Car

In July I posted about selling my car and got some useful comments. However, I realized that I still hadn't committed to either prospect.

To briefly folow up on previous comments: 1) we will (most likely) not be getting a new car payment -- we both like the freedom of owning our cars outright; 2) Maryland insurance was more than $3,000 a year and Oklahoma was $500 -- big difference; 3) the partner's marriage discount amounted to $100 a year -- not impressive.

The partner and I discussed this further and outlied the pros for selling:

• milage (almost 140K)
• no a/c -- summer in Maryland is painful and none of our three cars has a/c
  
• stick shift -- annoying in rush hour traffic but otherwise great
• front-wheel drive is harder for the partner to work on
• no where to work on a vehicle at current residence
• don't want unexpected problems to arise -- more common as car gets older
• will be easier to sell now than later
• I will be using public transit for work and need to reduce transportation costs
• we really don't need three cars for two drivers
• no inspection fees and fees to tag it in MD
  

and the cons for selling:

• I love my car
• timing on being able to buy a newer car -- will I be stuck driving his car for a while?
• it is a great car and it never complains about anything
• time and effort
• again, I really love my car
  

So, we've decided to sell my car and I think I have finally settled and accepted this fact. This weekend I will do everything I can to get it cleaned and see if I can get out some spots in the backseat (oh the joys of children). Then, I think I'll visit the local CarMax, but I know they offer low numbers for cars over 100K, and then post to craigslist. I'll also post around in my social circles as well.

Also, I am considering getting it Maryland inspected anyways just so I can advertise that it has been done. This will help in terms of selling the car, I think, but will create a new timeline needed to get it sold. I'm a bit swamped right now and wondering if this will come back to bite me.

Finaly, I think the blue book value for my car is $3,100 but I just don't see anyone paying that much for it. It is a great, reliable car but it has power-nothing (except breaks and steering) and no a/c. Maybe this cool spell and cooler weather that we are having will help people overlook that aspect. The heater works great!