10 Practical Tips for Buying and Selling Cars in Kenya

No 

Tip 101 

Buyers 

Sellers 

1 

Research, Research, Research 

Before deciding, research the car’s market value, performance, and maintenance costs. Advisably, seek help from professional automotive consultants such as CARS360 to avoid getting duped. 

Knowing the market’s demand and competitive prices will help you set a fair asking price. 

2 

Choose the Right Platform 

Explore reputable websites, classifieds, and social media groups where credible sellers list old and new cars for sale. Remember, when the deal is too sweet, think twice! 

Choose platforms that attract genuine buyers to maximize their chances of a quick sale. 

3 

Verify Ownership 

Always verify the ownership of the vehicle by checking relevant identification and documentation such as the Logbook and the seller’s information. 

Ensure all your documentation is accurate and up to date to instill confidence in potential buyers. 

4 

Vehicle Inspection 

Inspect the car’s condition as most buyers prefer accident-free MVs. If unsure about what to look out for, consider hiring a trusted mechanic to help with concise assessment. 

5 

Negotiate Wisely 

Research similar models to justify your offer. 

You should be willing to negotiate within a reasonable range of the asking price. 

6 

Documentation 

Insist on a proper sales agreement, legitimate logbook, and even a service history of the vehicle. 

You must provide a bill of sale and transfer ownership on the logbook. 

7 

Vehicle History 

Verify the car’s history through a service like NTSA- TIMS portal to ensure it hasn’t been involved in accidents or has outstanding Logbook loans. 

Transparency fosters trust and promotes repeat business. 

8 

Test Drive 

A test drive is essential to assess the car’s performance and comfort. Request between 10 – 50 km for a test drive to shake the car down through all its operating conditions. 

You should allow serious buyers to test drive under your supervision. 

9 

Secure Payment 

Make secure payment arrangements, such as using bank transfers or mobile money services like Mpesa. 

Confirm the legitimacy of funds before completing the transaction. 

10 

Advertise Effectively 

Create appealing and detailed listings that include high-quality photos and accurate descriptions. Highlight the car’s strengths and address any potential concerns upfront.