Selling to a Dealer vs. Private Sale: Pros, Cons, and How to Choose

(Photo credit: freepik)

It is the age-old dilemma for car owners in Thailand: "Should I post it myself to get a better price? Or should I sell it to a tent (dealer) just to get it over with?"

In 2026, the line between these two options has become much clearer. While selling online has never been easier, the risks regarding scammers and financing hurdles have increased. Conversely, selling through a representative (Dealer) has evolved to become faster and more transparent.

This guide breaks down the pros and cons to help you choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and financial needs.

Option 1: Private Sale (Selling it Yourself)

Best for: People who have time, are not in a rush for cash, and want the maximum possible return.

This involves taking photos and posting your vehicle on platforms like Facebook, Marketplace, or specific car club groups.

The Pros

• Highest Price: You sell at the "Retail Price." The margin that usually goes to the middleman serves as your profit. This is often 10-20% higher than a trade-in offer.
• Full Control: You decide who to sell to and set your own negotiation terms.

The Cons

• Time-Consuming: You must handle inquiries (many of which are just "tire kickers"), deal with no-show appointments, and take time off work to transfer ownership at the Department of Land Transport (DLT).
• The "Finance" Hurdle: This is the biggest obstacle in 2026. Most buyers do not have large sums of cash, and banks rarely approve loans for private-party sales (home cars). If they do, the process is incredibly slow. If your buyer gets rejected, you have wasted your time.
• Safety Risks: High risk of encountering scammers (fake transfer slips) or safety concerns when meeting strangers to show the car.

Option 2: Selling to a Dealer / Car Tent / Buying Platform

Best for: People who value speed, need urgent cash, and dislike paperwork.

This includes traditional used car tents or modern car buying/auction platforms.

The Pros

• Fastest Method: Deals often close within 24 hours. Some services even inspect the car at your home.
• Instant Cash: You don't have to wait for the buyer's loan approval. Once the inspection is done, you get paid.
• Outstanding Loan Handling: If your car is still under finance, a dealer can legally "close the account" with the bank for you. (Doing this in a private sale is complicated and risky).
• Paperwork Handled: They manage the transfer of ownership; you just wait for the transaction to complete.

The Cons

• Lower Price: You are selling at a "Wholesale Price." The buyer needs to deduct operating costs, reconditioning fees, rent, and profit margins. Expect the price to be 15-20% lower than the market retail price.

Checklist: Which Path Suits You?

Choose "Private Sale" if...

• Your car is a popular "market model" in good condition (e.g., Honda Jazz, Isuzu D-Max) that is easy to sell.
• You are not in a rush and can wait 1-2 months to gain that extra 10-20% profit.
• You are knowledgeable about DLT transfer documents and can spot a scammer.

Choose "Dealer / Representative" if...

• The car is still under finance: Let professionals handle the loan closure with the bank to avoid legal issues.
• You need urgent cash: You need the money within 2-3 days.
• Hard-to-sell car: It is an older car (10+ years) or a niche brand that is difficult to find a private buyer for.
• No time: You are busy and don't want to answer 20 chats a day.

Conclusion

There is no single "best" method, only the method that is best for your current situation.

• If Time is money to you $\rightarrow$ Choose a Dealer.
• If Profit Margin matters more than effort $\rightarrow$ Choose Private Sale.

Option 3: The Best of Both Worlds?

If you want convenience but a competitive price, try Motorist Thailand. We help you sell your car quickly and conveniently with a free valuation and no obligation.

Reference Sources

• Transfer procedures and documents: Department of Land Transport (DLT)
• Used Car Loan Conditions: Tisco Bank, Krungsri Auto

Read More:  Sell your car for the highest price in 24 hours

Looking for a  car appraisal?  You can contact us for a free car valuation within 24 hours…