Looking to sell a line of farm equipment you’ve spent a lifetime putting together? Here’s how to increase the value of your farm equipment before selling.
Clean the equipment
Take the time to detail your equipment to sell it. Start by power washing the grease off the unit, vacuum, clean inside with a rag, and clean the windshield. Some auction companies will provide this service for you.
Replace worn tires
Is there anything nicer than a perfect, shiny set of new tires?
Repair any mechanical issues
While these repairs may be costly, they will yield maximum return on investment.
Maintain equipment on a consistent basis
While you own the equipment, get regular oil changes. Keep records of oil changes and have them available for potential buyers to view of each machine.
Keep equipment stored inside
Years of farm equipment being stored in the elements of nature can decrease the value. Find a covered storage area to protect your equipment from the elements.
Remove equipment from its setting
When your auction representative comes to photograph equipment for sale, think about the background of the photos. For pull-type equipment that has been stored outside, pull the unit into a clean, weed-free area to take photographs.
Get it started
If you have older equipment in running condition, replace the batteries if needed so the unit will start when a potential buyer comes to view the machine.
Keep it running
Have the equipment running on preview days for potential buyers to view.
Be courteous and helpful
Potential buyers may request further information about your equipment. Be ready, willing and able to answer them.
In today’s marketing world, photographs are so critical in making your farm equipment look its best. Clean equipment with a crisp clean backdrop will get your equipment show ready for sale day.
J.K. Kinsey, CAI, AMM, Kinsey Auctioneers & Real Estate, LLC, contributed to this article.
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