How to Describe a Vehicle
Buyers want to know all they can about the vehicle you are selling. Remember -- a car feature you think is unimportant could be the difference to the buyer, such as air conditioning or CD player. The following are some suggested topics for your description:

• Make, model, sub-model and year
  "You are bidding on a 1997 BMW 328is"
  "This is a 1997 Ford Explorer XLT Eddie Bauer edition"
  "1996 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200"

• Engine type and transmission
  "2.8 liter 6-cylinder with manual transmission"
  "V-8 with automatic overdrive"

• Options and option packages
  "Sport package including sunroof, leather seats, sport wheels, and traction control"
  "Full-time 4x4 with towing package"
  "Air conditioning, cruise control, power locks and windows"

• Interior and comfort features
  "Leather seats with power adjustments"
  "Fold down rear seats"

• Any notable additions or modifications to the vehicle
  "I added a CD-changer and cell phone adapter. I also disabled the alarm."
  "I added 18" custom wheels in 1998 including a new set of snow tires"

Buyers also want to know the vehicle history:

• Ownership history
  "I am the original owner and bought the car from Seaside BMW in 1997"
  "I purchased the car from a used car dealer 5 years ago"

• Maintenance records, if any
  "I have all records of service from my ownership and the previous owner"
  "All service on this vehicle was performed at County Chevrolet"

• Recent service
  "The car has new tires and a new clutch installed less than 2 months ago"

How to Describe Vehicle Condition
The condition of the vehicle you are selling is especially important to close the deal with a buyer. Always think like a buyer and be as accurate and complete as possible so the buyer can bid with confidence.

• Exterior
  "The car has a noticeable dent on the passenger side behind the door."
  "The paint has faded on the hood and roof"
  "A small chip is visible in the lower right portion of the windshield"

• Engine and mechanical
  "The muffler sometimes has a noticeable rattle during idle."
  "The windshield washer spray valve is not functioning"
  "My mechanic recommends updating the shocks and struts"

• Interior
  "The seats have noticeable wear including a stain on the driver's seat"
  "This is a non-smoker vehicle"
  "The passenger power seat adjustment does not recline"

How to Describe Terms of Sale
Notify buyers of any specific requirements you have to complete the sale of vehicle. The terms can help you make the sale easier if the buyer is prepared.

• Payment Terms
  "I would like a 10% deposit within 3 days of close of auction"
  "Balance to be paid within 10 days of close of auction."
  "I accept payment by money order"

• Delivery Terms
  "Buyer to pay for shipping of the vehicle."
  "I will arrange to deliver the car within 100 miles of San Jose, CA."