Why Value Selling Trumps Price Selling in Automotive Sales: The Importance of Documentation in Closing Deals

March 14th, 2024

In the highly competitive world of automotive sales, dealerships often find themselves in a race to the bottom when it comes to pricing. While offering the lowest price on a vehicle might attract some buyers, it’s not always the most effective strategy for closing deals and generating profits. Instead, a value selling approach that emphasizes the benefits and features of a particular vehicle can lead to higher gross and more sales.

Value selling focuses on highlighting the unique selling points of a vehicle, such as its history, optional equipment, warranty, and condition. By emphasizing the value of the car, salespeople can differentiate it from other similar models and persuade buyers that it’s worth paying a premium price.

One way to emphasize the value of a vehicle is through proper documentation. Having documentation, such as reconditioning receipts, original window stickers, and warranty information, can make the buyer feel more informed and comfortable with the purchase. It provides evidence that the car has been well-maintained, and the buyer can see that the dealership has invested in ensuring the vehicle’s quality.

Reconditioning receipts, for example, can show buyers that the dealership has thoroughly inspected the car and repaired any issues before putting it up for sale. Original window stickers can provide detailed information on the car’s features and options, including safety ratings, fuel economy, and other important selling points. Warranty information can give buyers peace of mind, knowing that they are protected against unexpected repair costs.

By providing these documents to potential buyers, salespeople can differentiate their vehicle on value and proof of quality, which can lead to higher gross and more sales. In contrast, focusing on the vehicle’s price often leads to lower margins and can result in buyers perceiving the car as a commodity rather than a unique product with distinct value.

In conclusion, value selling is a more effective approach to automotive sales than price selling. Emphasizing the unique benefits and features of a particular vehicle and providing proper documentation can help differentiate it from other models and persuade buyers to pay a premium price. So, if you’re in the automotive sales industry, invest in proper documentation and make sure to highlight the value of your vehicles.