The first message
When someone asks “Is it still available?”, the answer that works is not “Yes”: it is “Yes, it is still available. Here are the photos and details,” with the fact sheet or the listing link, and a question: “Are you looking for something for city driving or road trips?” That question opens the conversation and tells you what to show.
Replies ready to copy
- What is your best price? “The price is [price]. If you see it and like it, we can talk in person. When could you come by?”
- Do you take trade-ins? “Yes, we take [types of cars] as part of the payment. Send me the make, model, year and mileage of yours and I will tell you what we could offer.”
- Can I finance it? “Yes, through [lender or plan]. With [down payment] down, payments come to about [amount]. Want me to run the numbers for you?”
- Has it been in an accident? “No accidents. It has [detail], which you can see in photo [number]. You are welcome to have your mechanic check it before deciding.”
- Can I test drive it? “Yes, by appointment and with a driver’s license. Is morning or afternoon better for you?”
How to qualify buyers without losing anyone
Ask what it is for. Commuting, road trips, work: it tells you whether this car fits or another one would.
Clear up payment early. Cash, trade-in or financing changes the whole conversation.
Offer two specific times. “Thursday at 6 or Saturday at 10?” works better than “When can you come?”
Confirm the day before. A short message with the address and time prevents no-shows.
What to keep at hand
- The car’s fact sheet with photos and details, as a link or a PDF.
- A short video of the engine running and the dashboard lit up.
- Financing and transfer requirements, written once so you can paste them.
- WhatsApp Business labels: “New”, “Wants to see it”, “Trade-in”, “Sold”.
Speed matters: an inquiry answered within minutes usually keeps talking; one answered the next day has already messaged another seller.
