Auto Marketing Systems | The Blog! | Longwood Industries, Inc. | 866-326-9921

SOLD BY AMS: Another Ring for Saturn!

2011-08-04T14:44:00.004-04:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to contact us to thank us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received by telephone from Mike in Littleton, CO...

"Received phone call within 2 hours of listing. Sold vehicle today for $2,000. Please cxl (my note: that's short for "cancel") listing - great job!("

Mike listed his 1996 SATURN SW1 (station wagon) with us on Friday, July 29th and sold it TWO (2) DAYS LATER to one of our buyers that contacted him within 2 hours of getting listed with us! Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Mike! And THANKS for testifying!

SOLD BY AMS: Astro-nomical!

2011-02-22T10:16:00.010-05:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to contact us to thank us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received by telephone from Kay in Conway, AR. Here's my favorite part...

"Well, that's wonderful! I wish I had something else to sell!"

Kay listed her 2001 Chevy Astro Van with us on February 10th and was initially contacted by her buyer 5 days later. She called this morning to return one of our follow-up calls and let us know the deal had been done! Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Kay! And THANKS for testifying!

SOLD BY AMS: Valentine's Day Match-Making!

2011-02-18T13:41:00.007-05:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to contact us to thank us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received by telephone from Edward in Acworth, GA...

"Thank you for selling it so quickly; I will definitely use your service again in the future!"

Edward listed his 2002 GMC 6500 with us on Valentine's Day and sold the truck THREE (3) DAYS LATER to one of our buyers. As you might expect, he was extremely satisfied with the service he was provided. Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Edward! And THANKS for testifying!

125th Anniversary of the Automobile: Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler put the world on wheels - AutoWeek Magazine

2011-01-31T11:56:00.003-05:00

125th Anniversary of the Automobile: Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler put the world on wheels - AutoWeek Magazine

The world marks the 125th anniversary of the invention of the automobile on Jan. 29. Karl Benz filed a patent for a three-wheeled vehicle driven by a gasoline engine in Mannheim, Germany, on that day in 1886, the same year Gottlieb Daimler completed his motorized carriage in Cannstatt, Germany. The world's first two automobiles came into being barely 93 miles from each other, built by men who had not previously met but whose names became synonymous with the development of the automobile: Daimler-Benz.

Daimler and his collaborator Wilhelm Maybach invented the world's first high-speed gasoline engine in 1883, while Benz was the first to combine an internal-combustion engine with an integrated chassis.

The Benz Patent motor car was a three-wheeled device with two tall wheels flanking the rear-mounted single-cylinder engine that drove the wheels by a leather belt and chain drive. A steering tiller directed the single front wheel.

Gottlieb Daimler's motorized carriage was the world's first four-wheeled automobile. It was a conventional carriage into which Daimler and Maybach installed their small high-speed engine. Daimler and Maybach continued their development of the automobile with the motorized quadricycle that was displayed at the 1889 World Exhibition in Paris.

The 1893 Benz Victoria was Karl Benz's first four-wheeled automobile and the first to use a horizontally opposed piston engine. The 1896 Daimler Vis-à-Vis was the first automobile produced in any quantity, with about 150 examples. This car featured Maybach's invention of the spray-nozzle carburetor and placed the driver and passengers in seats facing each another.

Daimler also innovated motorized trucks, creating a drive system combining an industrial leather belt and flywheel connected to gears driving both rear wheels directly.

Daimler and Maybach built the first four-cylinder gasoline engines as early as 1890, a 12-hp engine of 371 cubic inches displacement and a smaller 6-hp engine of 147 cubic inches. Both were used first in powerboats and were not installed in road-going vehicles before 1898. The Daimler Phoenix was the first road vehicle with a four-cylinder engine. Daimler and Maybach also built their first two-cylinder engine with the cylinders arranged in a V.

The 1900 Daimler Phoenix Rennwagen was a 23-hp race car that suffered from a high center of gravity, a 600-pound engine and a short wheelbase that was difficult to control. Following a serious accident at the La Turbie race in Nice, France, Maybach set about building a new racing car, which became the first Mercedes in 1901.

Author: Leigh Dorrington

Article Spotlight: Finding New Car Sales

2010-11-23T10:23:00.002-05:00

There are many flaws in the public transportation system. If you are not into commuting using public transport, the best option will be is to buy a new car. This is the point where you will have to ask yourself, whether you should buy a new car or simply settle for a pre-owned one. This is an age old debate that many potential buyers face when deciding if they should look to purchase a new car. After all new car sales are more expensive than pre-owned ones. However, before you begin to go back and forth with this argument, take a look at the most important factor which is price.

When finding new car sales, there are new deals that come up almost every day. Automotive companies are constantly promising new deals with new cars which are safer to drive. If you are looking to buy a new car there are an endless number of options out there. However, in order to benefit from new car sales and make the best choice there are several factors to be taken into consideration.

When finding new car sales one of the top things you should do is to research the car sales market. Spend some time browsing through new car models and look at car magazines that advertise various car models along with prices each week. Automotive magazines always point to finding new car sales and best car deals. Look at all the safety features and ensure that the money you will be spending on a new car is well worth it. One of the best places to look for new car sales is on the internet. The internet promotes several automotive websites which offer new car deals, sometimes even slashing down the price.

You can also look at the features of the car you would like to own. This is one way you can decide on the model that you would like to be driving around. Several cars may have similar features you are looking for. The next step to buying a new car is to see which car would suit your budget the most. You have now come to the point where you have sufficient knowledge on new cars in the market and what you are really interested in. The final step is to visit one of these new car sales and have a chance to actually see the cars in person.

When finding new car sales the best option would be is to visit the store and have a salesman knowledgeable in cars assist you. Remember that prices quoted at car dealerships are always negotiable. After all there is a profit margin that car sales retain upon selling a car. There is a distinction between the actual price of the car and the price they quote you. You can negotiate on that difference which ranges between ten and twenty percent. Generally, car deals that you will find difficult to negotiate on are the ones that attract a lot of interest by many potential buyers. The more people are interested in a car model, the less the discount will be. Jus keep in mind that buying a new car entails additional cost such as taxes and registration. So take your own time in determining the best new car deal.

There are always new cars for sale coming on to the market. A good way to look out for new car sales is to visit different online car sales websites.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1781597_31.html
Author: Sunny

Moore Advice: Think Like a Salesperson!

2010-09-03T13:42:00.002-04:00

When it's time to sell your vehicle, you need to prepare yourself mentally to get the job done. Today's "Think Like a Salesperson!" quote comes from Irish poet, novelist and critic, Oscar Wilde, who said...

"The salesman knows nothing of what he is selling, save that he is charging a great deal too much for it."

Now don't let me confuse you... I ask you to think like a salesperson when it comes to selling your vehicle, but you need to decide what to do with those thoughts. Are you charging too much for your vehicle? Do you think you established a fair value? Do you really know what it is you are trying to sell? Did you research your vehicle's value? Are you priced competitively?

Know what you've got. Know what it's worth.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-9921

SOLD BY AMS: Short and Very Sweet!

2010-09-02T10:15:00.003-04:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to email us or leave us a voicemail thanking us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received from Barb in Northbrook, IL...

Steven,

Thanks for all your help! Vehicle SOLD!

BG

Well, what more needs to be said? Barb listed her 2005 handicapped-equipped Dodge Caravan SXT on August 20th, sent us some photos on the 24th, and sold her van within the following week! Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Barb! And THANKS for testifying!

SOLD BY AMS: In a word... AMAZING!

2010-09-01T13:23:00.004-04:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to email us or leave us a voicemail thanking us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received from Brennan in Wittmann, AZ...

In a voicemail received five days after listing his 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 with us on August 26th, Brennan's words were, "You and your service are AMAZING! I sold within ONE DAY!"

Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Brennan! And THANKS for testifying!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-9921

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 10

2010-03-15T09:49:00.002-04:00

CELEBRATE!
After the sale, take a minute to celebrate! You have undertaken a procedure that can sometimes generate some level of stress and concern. If you have followed the steps outlined in this guide, and done your research before putting the car up for sale, it is likely that the transaction has been accomplished to the satisfaction of both you and the new owner. They are now the proud owners of a vehicle that will provide them safe transportation at a price they feel comfortable with, and you can make that bank deposit and begin shopping for the car of your dreams.

Great advice from OnlineGuru, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 9

2010-03-04T12:04:00.002-05:00

SIGN ON THE DOTTED LINE
Before undertaking the sale of any vehicle, get informed. Learn what your state's requirements are for such documents as title transfer, smog certification, and possibly an odometer reading statement prior to advertising your car for sale. If there is any question as to the validity of any paperwork pertaining to your vehicle, a trip to the local Department of Motor Vehicles may be in order to have clear proof of ownership within arm's reach.

In many states, both the seller and the new buyer have responsibilities during and after the transfer of a vehicle. Be sure to learn about the state regulations on the necessary paperwork.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 8

2010-02-19T15:25:00.003-05:00

CLOSE THE DEAL
Only you can decide how payment will be paid: by personal check; cash only; or cashier's check. It is always good form to mention your payment preference while setting up an appointment to see the car. In that way, if the buyer simply falls in love with your car on the spot, you will be able to finalize the transaction quickly -- without any time lapse, confusion or embarrassment on the part of either party.
If it hasn't been discussed before, now is the time to state your terms for the price of the car. Any negotiations should take place at this time. If you have given yourself a little cushion on your asking price, you can let the interested party take the lead. If they make a reasonable offer, be prepared to say yes. The art of negotiation is not easy for many people; take your time and listen to any offer. Counter offers by both the buyer and the seller are expected at this time in the process. Know beforehand what your bottom line amount is and don't get caught up in thinking that this will be the only person interested in buying your car. Should a potential buyer offer a ridiculously low amount, be prepared to thank them for their time and move along, but be sure to give them a card with your name and telephone number. After a cooling off period, they may reconsider and make a higher offer.
During this part of the deal is also the time to convey whether you will provide the buyer with any sort of warranty, or if the vehicle will be sold "as is." If the car is to be sold as is, be sure to write up a statement to that effect and have the buyer sign and date it for your records.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 7

2010-02-18T09:33:00.003-05:00

BUMPS IN THE ROAD
As long as you have been forthright in your representation of your car's pluses and minuses, you should have nothing to worry about. To assure the potential buyer that you are not keeping any secrets, hand out the vehicle's VIN number and encourage them to run a check on the vehicle via a vehicle history report.
Some car shoppers will ask if they can take the car to their own mechanic for a once-over. This has become an acceptable practice when buying a used car, although if you have obtained a prior report from your mechanic, that may suffice. If you have built a rapport with the potential buyer you can give your permission for them to take the car and set a return appointment at a specified time and place, or you can drive with the buyer to obtain a diagnostic check. If you have any inkling that the car shoppers are possible car thieves, it only make sense for you to refuse them the option of driving the car away―and you should end the meeting immediately for your own safety sake.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

For related information check out this article by Auto Marketing Systems' own Adam Little: Will Providing My VIN Number Help Sell My Car?
Will Providing My VIN Number Help Sell My Car?

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 6

2010-02-08T11:14:00.003-05:00

BE A SAVVY SELLER
Anticipating a potential buyer's questions about your vehicle is one way to build confidence in your honesty. Buyers looking for a certain make or model will likely have done some research on the going price of similar cars. Because of that, you should do your homework, too.
Spend some time online or reading the local classified ads comparing the same year make and models. If, for example, your asking price is significantly higher than the price of like models, it makes sense to have ready reasons to support your higher asking price. Special features, perfect maintenance records, and newly upgraded or replaced major engine parts are all logical explanations of a higher price - just be sure that you can justify your answers with receipts.
Many people refer to Kelley Blue Book to find a range of price on used vehicles. While the figures they use are an established source for car values, it is not the only source available any more. Don't let the buyer quote chapter and verse from any one source that determines car values. It may well behoove you to research several of the car evaluation sites and print out copies of the reports so you can show potential buyers that your asking price falls within the range of acceptable prices. You might want to check out NadaGuides or Edmunds.
In addition to being smart about pricing information, it is in your best interest to learn some car terminology prior to writing up your ad. Using correct and specific terms to describe your car makes your ad more concise and informative ― and the car shopper will know that you know about your vehicle. Once your ad has been written up, take the time to have a friend read over your copy to make sure you haven't forgotten or omitted any crucial information. If, for example, a potential buyer is looking only for a car with an automatic transmission, they will probably never take the time to call you and ask if you neglect to include that information.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Some of My Favorite Automotive Resources!

2010-02-02T10:39:00.016-05:00

All World Automotive
AutoHopper.com
AutoTrader.com
BuyAUsedSportsCar.com
BuyAUsedSUV.com
CarJunky.com
Cars.com
Car-Stuff
Car Talk
Dons Auto Pages
I Know Auto.com
Kelley Blue Book
NADA Pricing Guides
The Big Lot!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 5

2010-02-02T09:21:00.002-05:00

SHOW IT OFF!
If you have a sign posted on your vehicle, be sure to park your car in the areas that may generate the most interest―places that are appealing to those who would most be interested in your particular make and model.
Remember too, that potential buyers are going to be evaluating you as well as your vehicle. Car buyers may shy away if you come across as a high-pressure car salesman, so try to present yourself as friendly and honest. If you present yourself (both in appearance and demeanor) as a responsible and detail-oriented person, that impression will help assure possible buyers that you have carefully maintained your car.
For most methods of selling a used car, you will need to arrange and keep appointments where potential buyers can view and test drive your vehicle. Many people can find this process a bit intimidating ― be sure to try to put potential buyers at ease, and answer any questions to the best of your ability. For your own protection, you should verify that anyone who will be driving your car is in possession of a valid driver's license issued in your state, and make sure your insurance coverage will cover other drivers. To safeguard your property, it is always best to accompany the driver. During the drive, you can answer any of their questions as you travel along the highway.
If you are anxious about showing off your car alone, there is nothing wrong with having a friend or relative drive along, just be sure that you address any concerns or questions on your own ― you are the expert on this vehicle.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 4

2010-01-28T09:04:00.003-05:00

CLEAN IT UP!
Your investment in a little car maintenance and cleanup can reap big dividends when selling a car. Some cosmetic changes can make the difference in making a great first impression on potential car buyers, and can vastly improve your chances of getting your asking price. Minor maintenance that will cost you little but will enhance the appeal of your vehicle include:

* Wash and wax the car
* Tidy the interior and empty the trunk
* Clean the carpet and upholstery
* Shine up the tires and hubcaps

To take this preparation a few steps further you can make any minor repairs, throw in an inexpensive oil change, make sure the tire pressure is at the recommended level, and hang up an air freshener.
It is sometimes helpful to ask a friend or relative to take the car for a test drive. Many times they are able to hear or see something that you might not notice because you have become accustomed to your own car's idiosyncrasies.
Additional steps to make you look like a conscience car owner are compiling all the car's service and parts records in a folder in the glove compartment, and considering taking your car in to your regular car mechanic to have them provide a statement of condition or diagnostic results.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 3

2010-01-22T11:42:00.004-05:00

DECIDE WHERE TO SELL
Tried-and-true methods for selling a used car include hanging a "for sale" sign in the vehicle; buying a classified ad in the local newspaper; posting a sign on neighborhood bulletin boards; and trading in the car at a nearby car dealership. All those traditional approaches will have varying degrees of success―all of those methods inherently include an investment of time and energy.
Nowadays, car sellers also have some non-traditional ways to sell a used car. With the popularity of the Internet, you can now find sites that will assist you in a variety of ways to sell your vehicle. Many sites exist where buyers, usually for a small fee, can post their car's details and interested parties can contact you online for more information. One benefit from dealing with that type of posting is that you can make initial contact with potential buyers via email; from that initial contact, you can field any questions they may have and weed out any unqualified buyers prior to showing the vehicle. Companies such as Auto Marketing Systems, The Big Lot!, Car Soup, Cars Direct and CraigsList can help streamline the sale of your car.
Other online businesses take even more of the hassle out of selling your car. Today, there are brokers that will consign your vehicle and will sell the vehicle online for you for a fee. A note of caution: Be sure you are dealing with a reputable company by researching the company before you sign a contract with them.
Another online option is to offer your car for sale to the highest bidder. A number of online auction houses, such as Ebay now include car divisions on their sites. Again, before committing to any agreements with the company, be sure to read carefully all rules and stipulations.
If you are especially eager to be rid of a car, consider donating your car to a legitimate non-profit organization. Many of these groups can be found via the Internet or in your local phone book; one source is Donate a Car. Be sure to read and understand the current tax deduction guidelines; many tax code rules change from year to year.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 2

2010-01-13T11:06:00.003-05:00

FIGURE A PROPER ASKING PRICE
Doing a little homework is your first step in deciding your asking price. Spending a Sunday afternoon scouring the classifieds for comparable vehicles or clicking onto used car Web sites over several evenings are valuable tools to determine the going rate for your make and model of car. Once you have a range of prices for your particular model and year of car, you'll need to factor in a few other considerations:
* Mileage
* Condition
* Special features

Other factors that determine the selling price of a vehicle that some people do not consider are: location of the car (weather plays a big factor on the look and longevity of a vehicle); who has driven the car (young drivers are known to put hard miles on their cars); and gas mileage (more and more drivers are sensitive to this issue for both economic and environmental concerns).
If you have made major cosmetic or mechanical improvements to the car recently, be sure to boost your price accordingly. A new set of high quality tires, a rebuilt engine, a replaced transmission still under warranty, or a top-of-the-line paint job will add to the value of the car and you should be compensated for those upgrades that make your vehicle more reliable and desirable. Locate the paperwork regarding any major work and create a file of receipts (with dates) to show any potential buyers.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Sell Your Vehicle in 2010 - Step 1

2010-01-06T16:18:00.004-05:00

ASSESS YOUR VEHICLE
Let's face it, consumers can be fickle. What was once the rage goes quickly out of vogue. The American car-buying public is notorious for wanting the trendiest vehicles with the lowest sticker prices. Take an honest look at the marketability of the car you have for sale. If it's a popular make and model, you'll probably sell your car quickly. If not, be prepared to do a little research to find the best markets for your particular car.
Remember the Chevrolet Corvair or the Ford Pinto? Those vehicles, and others that have fallen out of favor, may be next to impossible to sell unless you offer it to members of a collector's car club. Compact economy cars may be hot tickets if you happen to live around a college campus; muscle cars may sell best near a military facility; station wagons may attract an interested buyer in a bedroom community; and ragtops will sell better at the beach. Knowing your vehicle and who would be most likely to buy such a car is imperative to the successful sale of your vehicle.
Be brutally honest with yourself about the popularity and desirability of the make and model car you want to sell. Take the time to research the going rate for your car through a company such as the Kelley Blue Book. Only then will you know where and how to market your vehicle, and only then will you have realistic expectations of how much money you can get from the sale of your car.

Great advice from OnlineGURU, Inc.!

Moore Advice: Trade In? Don't Be Silly... or Lazy!

2009-10-23T11:14:00.005-04:00

Hopefully, you are only considering a trade in because you're out of marketing money and have exhausted all other possibilities of getting rid of your vehicle at a fair price. If that isn't the case, of course, I'm going to tell you not to trade in your vehicle. And I could easily be accused of having an agenda -- try the AMS strategy! But the bottom line is that you can lose $500 to $2000 by trading in your vehicle, depending on what you're selling.
Trading in is a "cut your losses" and perhaps "convenient" solution if you're "made of money" to "selling" your car. Did you follow all of those quotation marks? :-) I just don't want you to give up too soon. Consider this... if a trade-in is an option, you might as well try drastically reducing your price for a week or two -- just not quite as low as trade-in value. See if you get any bites that way.
The extra time and little bit more money you invest in your last ditch efforts to get all of the proper value out of your car WILL BE well worth it. I've said it before... selling a car is not easy. But that doesn't mean you should pay the price of the "easy" way out... and you can quote me on that!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-9921

No Calls? Don't Lower Your Price Too Soon!

2009-09-17T09:40:00.003-04:00

A day goes by… no calls. Two days go by… still no calls. A week goes by… "I can’t believe no one has called." Two weeks go by… impatience and worry creep in, if they haven’t already consumed you. Your knee-jerk reaction -- which in 95% of all of life’s situations should not be the first course of action -- is to lower your price. Take it from me… your price is probably not your problem.

The truth is… most people are not salespeople. And when it comes to selling your vehicle as a private seller, we find out quickly whether or not Sales is in our blood. It’s not uncommon for an inexperienced private "seller" to spend a couple of hours pricing his vehicle just right -- figuring out the payoff, incorporating the average yearly mileage, estimating how some aftermarket customizations have added value, etc., etc., etc.

And then, when the first tire-kicker comes along and makes a $7,000 offer on what the seller figured to be a $10,000 vehicle, he gets all excited that an offer has been made, his blood starts pumping, and he thinks to himself, "If I just say ‘Yes’ this will all be over… I won’t have to think about it anymore." And he finds himself standing on his front porch with one hand waving good-bye to the nice man that just bought his perfectly maintained car, while holding a check for $3,000 less than he originally anticipated in his other hand, only to realize moments later the magnitude of the mistake he just made.

Now certainly many would negotiate a little less pathetically than the gentleman in the previous scenario. But the bottom line is that this gentleman, and the majority of America, would not have ended negotiations closer to the $10,000 price than to the $7,000 offer. In other words, most sellers are easily "talked down" by buyers, usually closer to what buyers are looking to spend, rather than closer to what the sellers are looking to make. But why? Why settle? Did you not just closely research the market value of your vehicle for two or three hours? And in the blink of an eye some random tire-kicker has convinced you that your vehicle is less valuable?

Sellers, I urge you… Do not lower your price too soon. And if I were to preface this entire thought with the notion that you need to set your price at the price you want - that also being the only price you will take -- then I would urge you to not lower your price at all. Why? Because your price is probably not your problem. After you have spent good time and energy setting a reasonable price on your vehicle, leave it alone. And feel free to tack on the word "FIRM." Buyers love that. They ignore it sometimes, but it makes a statement. It says, "I have done my research. If you want this vehicle, pay what is on the sign. Thanks for not wasting our time."

So if price isn’t your problem… what is? You’ve figured a proper dollar figure and two weeks have gone by with no bites. The two biggest factors are time and exposure, both of which -- if you’re like everyone else I know -- you don’t have much of.

Getting enough exposure is a quick fix, if done correctly. Because your goal should be to put your vehicle in front of as many buyers as possible at the same time, you’re going to have to bite the bullet and put a couple hundred dollars into different advertising means (newspaper classifieds, web classifieds, For Sale signs, etc.). Don’t worry about it. A properly priced vehicle will get that money back.

Your other option is to advertise in one venue at a time and spread what will eventually be the same cost (if not more) out over time, but, oh yeah, you almost forgot… you need to get this sold NOW because time was one of those things you don’t have. And if you’re just going to end up spending the same amount of money (or more) anyway, because it’s a much less effective means of advertising, why not just put your time, money and energy into one massive marketing party from the get-go? Not only does it sound like more fun, but more importantly, it’s more effective.

One final note about time… don’t wait until it’s "crunch time" to think about selling your vehicle. So many people wait and wait and wait and then expect to make money in a week. If that were the case, we’d all be used car salesmen. It doesn’t work that way. My advice is to plan ahead. Get ahead of the game. Try to see that day coming when you know it’s about time to start looking for a different vehicle. Get the ball rolling before you feel like it’s about to roll on you. Start marketing early and put a proper price tag on it. You are more likely to get the price you want -- again, the only price you should take -- if you’re not in a rush to get it sold.

by Adam Little
Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-9921

SOLD BY AMS: A Definite Recommendation!

2009-08-24T10:33:00.006-04:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to send us an email thanking us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received from Arlene in Grovetown, GA...

I wanted to inform you that I have sold my 2008 Pontiac Solstice and request that you please remove the listing from your website.
Your site was so very helpful. I sold my car within one week after posting it. I was shocked on how quickly I received a call on the car and I actually sold it for just $200 less than my asking price...WOW!
I will definitely recommend Auto Marketing Systems to others. Thanks again!

Another VERY satisfied customer! Congratulations, Arlene! And THANKS for testifying!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-9921

Like a Glove?

2009-06-30T13:57:00.003-04:00

Being fairly new to the motorcycling community, I was interested in what type of gloves provide the security I need and the protection from the elements, but weren't so thick that I couldn't bend my fingers (which is necessary while riding!). So I asked the experts at www.motorcycle.com and found out that they recommend the following options:

Most highly recommended for all-season comfort:
Lee Parks Design -- World's Finest Deerskin Motorcycle Gloves

Recommended for warm weather:
Joe Rocket Atomic 2.0 Gloves -- Motorcycle Superstore

Long-finger bicycle riding gloves were another option that was rather popular, and are actually what I had been using. Most of these gloves, however are made for riding in cold weather (otherwise, cyclists use the fingerless gloves).

It was a helpful study for me and I hope others have found this information useful!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Yahoo's Best Answer! -- Girly Cars?

2009-06-10T16:04:00.004-04:00

As I continue to offer advice on Yahoo, I thought it would be a splendid idea to share with the followers of the Auto Marketing Systems blog all of the answers that are voted "Best Answer" by the Yahoo Community or chosen as "Best Answer" by the person who asked the question.

So...the following question was posed by Luke G. -- "What cars are 'girl' cars?"

My answer:
Assuming you're asking because you are a guy that doesn't want to make a big mistake by purchasing a girly car, maybe you should avoid the following...
- VW New Beetle (has a flower holder for goodness sake)
- Mazda Miata (great car, just not masculine)
- Mini Cooper (sorry fellas, give it up)
- Acura RSX (I'll let you do your own research)
- VW Cabriolet (it doesn't even sound masculine, does it?)
Others could argue the following...
- Volkswagen Jetta (that's 3 for VW... interesting)
- Honda Civic
- Honda Civic Del Sol
So, if you're looking for a small convertible, be careful and choose wisely. Another good rule of thumb... avoid anything pink.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Auto Marketing Systems Advice Now Available on Yahoo!

2009-05-29T09:57:00.002-04:00

I thought I'd make a public announcement on our blog that I am now offering my expertise in the Cars & Transportation section of Yahoo Answers! Not only am I proud to represent Auto Marketing Systems in this venue to give advice, but I will also be looking for a few answers myself! I plan to visit frequently and post survey questions that I hope you will all participate in. So keep your eye out when you visit Yahoo Answers. Feel free to create your own account and earn points by answering my survey questions - the "Best Answer" always gets 10 bonus points! See you there!

Auto Marketing Systems 866-326-0949

AMSVehicleSales.com Now on Yahoo Answers!

2009-05-29T09:46:00.003-04:00

SOLD BY AMS: Steaks on Us!

2009-05-18T14:48:00.007-04:00

One week after receiving an awesome testimonial from a customer who sold her vehicle in less than 72 hours, we received yet another thrilling testimonial, this time from Keith in San Jose, CA...

AMS,
I'm writing to tell you that in these days it's hard to find a business that does what it says it can do. When I first received your phone call on my home phone, I was extremely hesitant to call, although I had no responses to my current ad, so I reluctantly called you. My first thought was wow, $99.00, thats a little pricey. Then... you assured me that there were buyers who wanted my vehicle. Again I was hesitant, I followed your suggestions & I'm pleased to inform you that you sold my car in two days, for five hundred dollars more the my original asking price. I commend you on a job well done., and I thank you for the steak dinner as well (I bought it with the extra cash)... Keith o San Jose, Ca.

Keith listed his 1993 Toyota 4Runner with us on May 13th and sold it two days later!! Another awesome testimonial. Congratulations Keith! And THANKS for testifying!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

SOLD BY AMS: First Come, First Sale!

2009-05-08T14:38:00.013-04:00

While testimonials don't always reveal what are considered typical results of a product or service, we are often thrilled by the effectiveness of our service. And we greatly appreciate it when customers take a minute to send us an email thanking us for our help.

Today, I'm excited to share a testimonial we received this morning from Cathy in Woodbridge, VA...

Your service is great! I had a couple of inquiries and I sold the bike this morning to the first person who looked at it. And, actually had a second person who was very serious and would have purchased is the first one hadn't. I would definitely recommend your service to anyone in the market to sell a vehicle.
Again, thank you.

Cathy was selling a 2001 Kawasaki Voyager XII and listed with us on May 5th. Less than 72 hours later the sale was a done deal and she was emailing us the above testimonial! How awesome is that? Congratulations, Cathy! And THANKS for testifying!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Think Like a Salesperson!

2009-05-06T11:40:00.004-04:00

When it's time to sell your vehicle, you need to prepare yourself mentally to get the job done. Today's "Think Like a Salesperson!" quote comes from one of the Founding Fathers of our country, and one of the greatest thinkers of all time, Benjamin Franklin, who said...

"He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else."

What is your excuse for not trying to get that vehicle out of your driveway today? Tough economy? No money? Start with FREE advertising while you SAVE a little money to spend on other means of marketing your vehicle. This is not a new concept. It just takes discipline, right?
What else is holding you back? Need to talk to your spouse about it? Well, I'm no Dr. Phil, but this seems like an easy one. I assume the two of you have already agreed to sell the vehicle, so the next step would be someone taking the reigns, doing some research and making some moves.
Do you want/need to fix something on the car before you test the market? Good idea -- this usually costs you a lot less than how much it increases the value and often the appeal of the vehicle. Oh... but, it isn't going to fix itself!
Are you just procrastinating? Well let me share another quote with you today..."Time is money!" And I didn't even know when I started typing this entry that this quote was also coined by Ben Franklin! Coincidence? I think not.
Join me in the fight against the often perceived American laziness, and make sure you get top dollar for your vehicle by not wasting time! You wouldn't want to disappoint Ben Franklin, would you?

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Speaking of Pricing...

2009-05-04T10:13:00.003-04:00

In my last entry I mentioned pricing your vehicle in a manner that will help you sell quickly. For more on this thought, let me refer you to an article by our very own Adam Little, who reiterates that Your Price is Probably not Your Problem.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Quick Sales Don't Come From Playing Games

2009-04-22T11:11:00.013-04:00

A quick sale is often about getting the first look from buyers. And while the price tag isn’t everything, it is definitely something – especially if you are advertising somewhere that doesn’t typically give you a whole lot of room for details, such as a local newspaper. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend on advertising or marketing your vehicle, don’t waste the little that you do have. Quick sales don’t result from playing games and experimenting with your price to make an extra buck off of someone. Certainly you should do your research and find a fair price, but if you have a price that you have determined to be the lowest you would accept, why not put that price out there and raise a few eyebrows?
The truth is, you have already decided that this lowest price is how much you are going to end up getting for your vehicle. That’s called a self-fulfilling prophecy. The real question you must ask yourself is… do you want to play games and delay the inevitable in the hopes of making an extra buck (which you won’t) or do you want to get this vehicle off of your hands as soon as possible (without trading it in)?
Don’t forget… your buyer has most likely done his research as well. The closer you start to a fair price and the sooner you make it clear that you’re not interested in playing games, the sooner the two of you can come to the exciting conclusion of an agreement!

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Think Like a Salesperson!

2009-04-15T10:31:00.009-04:00

When it's time to sell your vehicle, you need to prepare yourself mentally to get the job done. Today's "Think Like a Salesperson!" quote comes from the great American motivational speaker and author Zig Ziglar, who said...

"It's not what you've got, it's what you use that makes a difference."

You can be given all of the tools you need to build a treehouse. They could be the finest Craftsmen or Dewalt tools money can buy. But the treehouse isn't going to build itself. You have to cut the wood, pick up the hammer, bang in the nails, and screw in the screws. Someone has to do the leg work.
The same is true about selling your used vehicles. I can give you all the tools you need, and you could say, "Hooray, I've got what I need to sell my car!" But you will not get your car sold until you put those tools to work. Auto Marketing Systems knows how to make the difference that Mr. Ziglar was talking about. If you don't know how, put us to work for you.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Get the Word Out That Your Car is For Sale

2009-04-07T14:42:00.011-04:00

You've heard it before... Never sell a car to someone you know. Why not? Because there's a law of nature out there that says when you sell a car to a friend or acquaintence something is going to break, crack, rupture, rip, or flat out fall off within a month of the sale whether the vehicle was in perfect looking and/or working condition or not when the title and money changed hands. I don't think that qualifies as Murphy's Law, but it sounds like a cousin. If that's not bad enough, you then find yourself running into your [former?] friend more often than you ever did prior to selling him or her a -- unbeknownst to you -- broken car. Your promises of ignorance of any problems fall on deaf ears and the weight of the guilt trip is lightened only by the new car you're driving while your on it.
I remind you of this unwritten rule, still tested and broken by those who dare, to offer you something more. While you might want to avoid selling your car to someone you know, you can always sell it to someone your friend knows. My point being this... get the word out. Let your friends know that you are trying to sell your vehicle. Let your co-workers know. Let your church family know. Let your book club know. Let your ball team know. While you may not want to sell it to someone you know first hand (because they'll also call you and tell you about everything that ever goes wrong with the vehicle), there is no law I know of that says you shouldn't sell a vehicle to a friend of a friend.
It should be no surprise that this is often a very successful path to selling vehicles; however, it is surprising how often this path goes untraveled by sellers. Word of mouth has been around longer than any advertising or marketing venue known to man so don't be afraid to speak up! You'll be amazed at how many people know someone else who is looking for a used vehicle to buy.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Clean Cars Sell!

2009-03-31T11:19:00.005-04:00

Let me start with an analogy that will perhaps kill two birds with one stone. Or more appropriately a message that will preach to two genders with one story.
Ladies, let's pretend you finally got a date with that guy you've had your eye on for weeks, maybe months. Gentlemen, pretend you are "that guy" in this story. How you met and how you got the date aren't important, so allow me to skip that part. Fast forward to the night of your first date. He's coming by to pick you up at 7 o'clock for dinner. What have you done to prepare for your date?
Gentlemen, you had to be at her house by 7 o'clock ready to impress. What did you do to prepare?
Ladies, if you're anything like me, you cleaned up. You showered, you washed your hair - unless of course you wanted it to style and "hold" better and therefore left it a little "dirty" with product, but most likely you wanted it to smell good so you washed it. You probably also cleaned up around your home - cleaned the bathroom, picked up clothes, shoved things in closets and hampers, maybe even swept or vacuumed - just in case he needed to use the restroom before heading off to dinner. If it was Summer time, meaning there was still some daylight at 7 o'clock, perhaps you even tidied up the outside of your house if you're a homeowner. In any case, you didn't want him thinking you were a slob.
Gentlemen, if you wanted any shot at all at this date being successful, you took care of two key items. First, you cleaned your car. And then, you cleaned you.
Now, I'm sure you are all deeply engaged in the setup of this story and want to know how the date went, so I'll say that everyone cleaned up nicely, made great first impressions and the date went great, yada, yada, yada.
I need to bring this analogy full circle... Just as we want to present our best on first dates, you should be ready to present your vehicle's best on its first dates. Ladies, imagine being picked up in a car --or truck or van... actually, guys don't pick us up in a van or a minivan for that matter... just don't-- anyway, imagine that you can't even tell what the original color of the paint job is, and when the door is opened for you (hint, hint, guys), you find that you have to sit where it appears Sparky was sitting just a couple of hours ago, and voila, you arrive at the restaurant in a fur coat that you didn't have when you left your house. I imagine you would get the impression that someone wasn't trying to impress you at all.
Gentlemen, if this wouldn't impress a lady, it's certainly not going to impress a buyer. Every meeting with a potential buyer should be like a first date. At a minimum it's helpful to run the vehicle through an automatic car wash and vaccuum it out yourself, but if you really want to get the most out of your vehicle, don't be afraid to invest a little more money and have it detailed. Most detailers have different options available, but whatever the cost, it's usually worth it and you can get that much more of return on your investment because of your vehicle's appearance. Not all buyers are savvy enough to look under the hood and kick all of the tires, but every buyer can take one look at a vehicle and make a judgment call on how well you've maintained your vehicle. Odds are, if it looks like you've maintained the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle, buyers are likely to assume that you've maintained the mechanical appeal as well.
Don't forget, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Clean cars sell.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: There is Always a Right Time to Sell

2009-03-18T11:21:00.008-04:00

So you've decided to sell and now it's time to put a price tag on what many of you would consider "love." I know the feeling. I have fallen in love with a couple of my old cars (and one truck), and when it came time to move on, I thought to myself, "How do you put a price tag on what this machine and I have been through together? The trips with the family, the conversation, the music, the speed, the occasional road rage, Booger sticking his head out the window, the hum of my first V8, the memories of learning to drive a stick - all of these things that MasterCard would call 'priceless.'
Unfortunately, that's all between you and the car, and you just can't put a price tag on it. No, seriously... you can't put a price tag on it because there is no selling power there. While those are beautiful things and we can all relate, when the tables are turned and you stand there as a buyer you just want to know how much value that vehicle still holds, and that's all you want to pay.
Hence, the sad truth... vehicles can lose value quickly and there is always a right time to sell. So take lots of pictures and create lots of memories, and when the time comes hopefully you have prepared yourself to part ways. Probably not at the price you'd put on love, but at least at a price others would consider fair market value.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949

Moore Advice: Get Serious!

2009-03-16T14:35:00.005-04:00

Selling your car starts with YOU. Once you've made the decision that you're ready to sell or that you need to sell, you need to take action. Quick sales don't fall in a person's lap. My message to you today is "Get serious about selling!" Put maximum effort into selling today so you're not still trying to sell two months from now. Be aggressive in every area - market aggressively and follow leads aggressively and follow-up with leads aggressively. These are the times when you must stay active in your pursuit of a buyer. Give yourself a shot - if you don't follow up with a potential buyer, they will buy from someone else. If they're looking to spend their money, why shouldn't they spend it on you? But it's up to you to put yourself in front of them. If you aren't the aggressive type, I'd suggest you find someone... or some company... that is.

Auto Marketing Systems - 866-326-0949