Selling Your Car? Check These 5 Things Before Giving the Keys

The buyer says the money’s sent and they’re ready to leave. Before handing over the keys, take a minute. A private car sale in Quebec still needs proper payment checks and transfer steps, even when the buyer seems nice and you’ve both got somewhere else to be.

1. Know who you’re selling to

Confirm the buyer’s identity and who will sign the agreement. If a business is buying, make sure the person you’re dealing with is acting for that business. Ask why if a different name unexpectedly appears on the documents or payment instructions.

2. Put the final price in writing

Review the price after any inspection and identify every agreed deduction. Make sure the paperwork reflects the vehicle and included equipment. If there’s a lender balance, separate that payment from any proceeds you expect to receive.

3. Check the payment yourself

Don’t rely only on a screenshot or an email supplied by the buyer as proof of payment. Contact your financial institution through a channel you already trust if you’re unsure about a payment’s status or verification.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warns sellers about fake transfer notifications and overpayment schemes. A request to refund an unexpected excess payment or pay a fee to unlock incoming money should make you pause and verify independently.

4. Make sure the transfer is sorted

Ask who completes the relevant Quebec registration steps and what confirmation you’ll receive. Keep copies of the signed sale documents. If someone presses you to skip a step because they are in a hurry, take the time to resolve it first.

5. Clear out your stuff and saved details

Before the agreed handover, remove belongings and check storage compartments. Clear saved navigation addresses, paired phones and connected accounts using the vehicle’s instructions. Gather the keys and accessories included in the deal.

These checks apply to the transaction, not just to a particular selling platform. A convenient sale should still leave you understanding the price, payment and transfer arrangements.

Read the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s seller guidance. If you want a direct-buyer option, request an offer from Car Buyers Montreal and discuss the handover process before deciding.