Let’s speak. Sit in that sleek, electric car on your driveway my blog. The Batmobile could look like this, if Batman lived here in Silicon Valley. This is what your Tesla looks like. You have turned your attention in another direction. This could be an adventure or investment. The sale of a Tesla does not equate to the sale of an old car. In fact, it is similar to the auctioning of art. How do you go about selling a Tesla properly?

Let’s give it the name Carla. Carla, let’s call her. Carla’s your trusty sidekick. She’s glided like a wind through traffic. Her turn is now. Do a complete spit shine. Nobody wants dusty cars. Imagine Picasso’s famous ‘Starry Night’ being hidden under a thick coating of dirt. The polishing will not only make your Tesla look nicer, but it will show buyers that you care.

Preparing the necessary documentation is the next step. You can use this as your Tesla CV. Maintenance records and repair histories as well proofs for optional upgrades are the secret weapons. Also, include details about your warranties. Be prepared if you are asked about Carla’s history by a potential customer.

Decide on the right price. It’s almost like a game. Your attachment to your car should not cloud judgment. Tesla pricing fluctuates much like the stockmarket. You can check out listings on websites like Auto Trader and Kelley Blue Book. The price of a vehicle should be based upon factors such as the mileage, its condition, its age and even the battery.

List time! It’s salesman time! Grammar errors and poor-quality pictures are not acceptable. No way. Avoid them just as a kitten would avoid bathing. By taking photos in good light, you can show off all your details. Clarity, truthfulness and what? Your two best friends. Describe any imperfections – even small ones. A warning is better than a shock.

Oh, I have so many more questions. How’s the battery so far? What is its actual range? You will know people are interested if you have attended a Q&A. Answer honestly, with patience, and as if it were a story you’d shared around the campfire.

Safety and intelligence will be the keys to a great meet-up. Test drives? Always ride along, perhaps channeling your inner wise-driving-instructor. You should meet in public. Safety always comes first. Don’t rely on someone without first verifying. Bring a companion if your goal is to feel safe. Avoid meeting in an unsafe petrol station, especially at dawn. It is the beginning of horror.

Negotiations might feel like a barter at a ‘flea market’, especially if you are feeling emotional. Treat it like a formal transaction and not as a barter. Draw a line on the sand and be prepared walk away when you feel the deal is not right. A powerful move is to simply say “Thanks, But No Thanks” and keep moving.

Once the deal is closed, it’s important to start on the paperwork. The key to staying organized is to be prepared. While this may not seem as enjoyable as unwrapping presents for birthdays, it is necessary. All forms need to be accurately filled in. You cannot afford to be careless. Consult state-specific requirements. Three copies are often requested.

Enjoy the satisfaction you get from a job well-done. Just like with a well-executed magic trick in which the cards are all in the right place, this may appear to be a simple task, but there is definite effort involved.

It’s done. Selling a Tesla involves a lot of work, preparation and nervous laughter. But every electric second will be worth it. Reward yourself for a well-done job and begin thinking about your future automotive projects.