So, you’re thinking about selling your car — maybe you’re upgrading to a newer model, need the extra cash, or it’s just time to part ways with a vehicle that’s served its purpose. Now comes the big question: should you sell it privately or go for a quick cash sale?
Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice really depends on your priorities: time, effort, money, and peace of mind. Let’s walk you through both sides so you can make the call that suits you best.
Selling Privately: More Money, More Work
Selling your car privately (via platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or Carsales) often means you’ll get a better price. After all, you’re cutting out the middleman. But it comes with a few strings attached.
Pros of Private Selling:
- Higher price potential – If your car is in good condition, desirable, or well-maintained, you could fetch significantly more than you’d get from a trade-in or instant buyer.
- You set the terms – You control the price, who buys it, and when you sell.
Cons of Private Selling:
- Time-consuming – You’ll need to take good photos, write up a listing, respond to messages (including time-wasters), and arrange inspections.
- Safety concerns – Meeting strangers for test drives and transactions can be risky.
- No guarantees – It could take days, weeks, or even months to sell — especially if your price is firm or the car has issues.
- Paperwork hassle – You’re responsible for transferring ownership, canceling registration, and managing any required roadworthy certificates (depending on your state).
Real-World Example:
Let’s say you have a 2014 Mazda 3 in decent shape. You might get $9,000 in a private sale, but it may take two weeks of negotiations, five test drive requests, and multiple tyre-kickers. Compare that to a car buying service that offers $7,000 same day — it’s the classic “more money vs less hassle” decision.
Selling for Quick Cash: Fast, Simple, and Stress-Free
Selling to a cash-for-cars company, car removal service, or trade-in dealer is the easier, no-fuss route. These buyers offer instant quotes and often remove the car the same day — no advertising, no waiting.
Pros of Quick Cash Selling:
- Speed – You can often sell your car within 24–48 hours.
- Convenience – No ads, inspections, or test drives. Just a quote, pick-up, and payment.
- We buy anything – Even old, damaged, scrap, or non-running vehicles still hold value for recyclers or wreckers.
- No paperwork stress – Reputable buyers handle most of the admin, including deregistration and transfer.
Cons of Quick Cash Selling:
- Lower payout – You’ll usually get less than the private market value.
- One-shot offers – There’s little room for negotiation.
Real-World Example:
Got a 2005 Holden Commodore that’s been sitting in the driveway? It might not attract any private buyers, especially if it needs work. But a cash-for-cars company may offer you $500 to $1,000 on the spot and take it off your hands today — no inspection needed, no time wasted.
What’s More Important to You?
Here’s a simple way to break it down:
| Factor | Private Sale | Quick Cash Sale |
| Potential Price | Higher | Lower |
| Time Required | More | Less |
| Effort | High | Very Low |
| Suitable for Damaged/Old Cars | No | Yes |
| Safe & Hassle-Free | Not Always | Yes |
| Ideal For | People who want top dollar and are happy to wait | People who want speed, simplicity, and convenience |
Our Honest Take?
If your car is in great condition, not urgent to sell, and you don’t mind putting in the work — go the private route.
But if you’re short on time, dealing with a vehicle that’s hard to sell (think high kms, mechanical issues, or no rego), or just want a smooth process with guaranteed payment — going for quick cash is often the smarter choice.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what matters most to you: time, money, or convenience.
Thinking of Going the Fast and Easy Route?
We buy cars of all makes, models, and conditions — and we make the process simple. If you’d rather skip the stress of selling privately and get paid fast, give us a call or request a free quote today. No pressure, no hidden fees — just honest cash offers and same-day pickup.
If you are in Watsonia, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Bundoora Cash For Cars
13 Nickson St, Bundoora VIC 3083