Avoiding trouble in private sales: what to agree when selling a car or used goods
Unlike a shop, a sale between individuals has no fixed rules on warranties or returns. Whatever you did not agree on is what turns into a dispute.
Common problems
“There was damage nobody mentioned.” “I paid and never received it.” “The car is still registered in my name.” Most of these come from things that were never decided in advance.
What to decide
Put these in writing: (1) exactly what is being sold (model number, vehicle identification number, condition), (2) the price and the payment deadline and method, (3) the handover date and method, (4) whether payment or handover comes first, and (5) what happens if a defect is found.
For cars and motorcycles, also decide the deadline for transferring the registration, and who is responsible for any violations or accidents before the transfer.
Write it down even for an “as is” sale
If you are selling a used item as is, say so, and list the defects you know about. Hiding a defect you knew about may not be excused by “as is” wording, so being honest also protects you.
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country, so ask a professional about your specific situation.