[SeniorDriver]

Hello members,

I have decided to sell my M2 to help my daughter with her college expenses, after loosing her job due to COVID-19. I have a rough estimated price range using the Kelly Blue Book site. I want to sell the car at the price where the buyer and I are both happy with the deal. I will provide an accurate description below. Can you help appraise my car with your independent view?

Description:

2018 M2 purchased new from a BMW dealer in Irvine California.
Color: Long Beach Blue
Transmission: 6MT
Executive Package
Mileage: 14,500

The car has been pampered since new. I am an old man and drives like one, always easy on the acceleration and braking, so the tires still look new and brake pads still have over 80% left based on Dealer's inspection. The car has zero issue since new and confirmed by the free inspection report from the dealership. The car is still under free maintenance and warranty from the manufacturer.

How much do you think the car should be listed for, based on the condition of the car and the inspection report from the dealership?

Also, can you also suggest where I should post the car for sale. I am aware of Autotrader and craigslist. Any other good sites for selling M2?

Thanks,
J.

[JCZ5]

Hi SeniorDriver,

Sorry to hear the news, I'm sure it was a difficult decision to sell something you love, that hopefully brought you many miles of joy. But you're a great father for supporting your daughter in this difficult time.

Now onto the valuation...

Here are some metrics for thought from AutoTrader:
1. Currently 21 M2 nationwide that are manual and with executive package
2. Cheapest listed: $39K w/ ~37K miles
3. Most expensive listed: $55.5K w/ ~1.3K miles

The main question is, when would you like this vehicle to be sold (1 month, 6 months, 1 year)?

I don't have to tell you that auto sales are not very strong at the moment. In addition, the M2 is a very niche vehicle and even more so with a manual. So buyers are limited to highly discernible BMW enthusiasts, who also will be looking for a "deal". Not to mention there is a high inventory of preowned M2C's that are pretty hard to move at this point too. The M2C preowned values will drop and bring along the M2s.

Personally, based on what you have mentioned, I would list it at ~$40K, with obviously some room for negotiations. Here is why...
1. There are already a few M2's with less than 10K miles listed at low $40Ks, with negotiation, the actual sell price may be at $40K or a bit lower.
2. $40K is a reasonable number to bring to my attention based on the mileage and condition. If you want even more of a statement, list it at $38-39K. That would be by far the lowest and would stir up some interest if someone is in the market for one.

In the end, it also goes back to my timeline question. If you want it sold by the summer, you will need to offer it at a price that will grab people's attention. If you list it amongst all the other offering, people may be persuaded to go for either a low mileage option compared to yours or a much cheaper option (if someone is looking to strip it out and build a track car).

In terms of platform to sell, I would list on all the main sites you have listed (AutoTrader, Cars.com, Cargurus, etc). I am always a little sketched out by posting on Craigslist for car sales, but thats just me.

[DanG]

From what I have seen it appears that $45,000 to $48,000 is a reasonable price. With the covid 19 crisis going on used car prices have been falling with very little demand.

Hope this helps.

[SeniorDriver]

Thanks. Your inputs are very helpful. Her next semester starts around September so I have about 4 months to sell the car.

[Al Bundy's Dodge]

Somewhere between $41-43k in my opinion. I feel like the 6MT commands a bit of a premium, especially if your car is stock.

Sorry to hear you have to sell. Be patient, there will be an enthusiast that values your car.

As far as listing, try the member classified of this site, in addition to those already mentioned.

[DanG]

Here is one from the members classified that is similar to yours. He hasn’t had much luck selling it. https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1676480

[Mr Pete]

Yea I'd say $42-45k or so? It's going to be lower in price than the M2C, as it's the 'older model'. Then again, if someone really wants the n54 vs s54, thats to your advantage as I imagine n54 M2's with low mileage are hard to find. But the M2's equipped with 6MT are truly niche vehicles. A buyer who wants it will pay for a well cared for manual version.

Best of luck!

[TemjinX2]

you can try carvana, and vroom to see what the cash price is. i would say either sell it asap or wait until the economy stablizes. 30mil unemployed...not many people are buying cars.

[SeniorDriver]

Originally Posted by Mr Pete

Yea I'd say $42-45k or so? It's going to be lower in price than the M2C, as it's the 'older model'. Then again, if someone really wants the n54 vs s54, thats to your advantage as I imagine n54 M2's with low mileage are hard to find. But the M2's equipped with 6MT are truly niche vehicles. A buyer who wants it will pay for a well cared for manual version.

Best of luck!

Thank you "Mr Pete". I believe my M2 is the most pampered and well cared for of all the pre-owned M2s out there. The roads where I live are smooth so this M2 has not seen any pot holes. The price range you mentioned seem very reasonable to me. I hope my M2 will find a good home and a good owner between now and September. If not, I will just sell it back to the BMW dealer.

[m2rs4_official]

Originally Posted by SeniorDriver

Hello members,

I have decided to sell my M2 to help my daughter with her college expenses, after loosing her job due to COVID-19. I have a rough estimated price range using the Kelly Blue Book site. I want to sell the car at the price where the buyer and I are both happy with the deal. I will provide an accurate description below. Can you help appraise my car with your independent view?

Description:

2018 M2 purchased new from a BMW dealer in Irvine California.
Color: Long Beach Blue
Transmission: 6MT
Executive Package
Mileage: 14,500

The car has been pampered since new. I am an old man and drives like one, always easy on the acceleration and braking, so the tires still look new and brake pads still have over 80% left based on Dealer's inspection. The car has zero issue since new and confirmed by the free inspection report from the dealership. The car is still under free maintenance and warranty from the manufacturer.

How much do you think the car should be listed for, based on the condition of the car and the inspection report from the dealership?

Also, can you also suggest where I should post the car for sale. I am aware of Autotrader and craigslist. Any other good sites for selling M2?

Thanks,
J.

Goodness, I sorry to hear of the sale of your vehicle but nevertheless its very noble of you and I am sure your daughter will be forever grateful. I'm sure the man up in the clouds will bless you multiple folds in all aspects.

Although, I no longer live in the US, I would say based on what I have read, you should aim to get anywhere between USD43k - USD47k and I hope you get something in that region if that is reasonable by you.

Good luck mate!

Originally Posted by JCZ5

Hi SeniorDriver,

Sorry to hear the news, I'm sure it was a difficult decision to sell something you love, that hopefully brought you many miles of joy. But you're a great father for supporting your daughter in this difficult time.

Now onto the valuation...

Here are some metrics for thought from AutoTrader:
1. Currently 21 M2 nationwide that are manual and with executive package
2. Cheapest listed: $39K w/ ~37K miles
3. Most expensive listed: $55.5K w/ ~1.3K miles

The main question is, when would you like this vehicle to be sold (1 month, 6 months, 1 year)?

I don't have to tell you that auto sales are not very strong at the moment. In addition, the M2 is a very niche vehicle and even more so with a manual. So buyers are limited to highly discernible BMW enthusiasts, who also will be looking for a "deal". Not to mention there is a high inventory of preowned M2C's that are pretty hard to move at this point too. The M2C preowned values will drop and bring along the M2s.

Personally, based on what you have mentioned, I would list it at ~$40K, with obviously some room for negotiations. Here is why...
1. There are already a few M2's with less than 10K miles listed at low $40Ks, with negotiation, the actual sell price may be at $40K or a bit lower.
2. $40K is a reasonable number to bring to my attention based on the mileage and condition. If you want even more of a statement, list it at $38-39K. That would be by far the lowest and would stir up some interest if someone is in the market for one.

In the end, it also goes back to my timeline question. If you want it sold by the summer, you will need to offer it at a price that will grab people's attention. If you list it amongst all the other offering, people may be persuaded to go for either a low mileage option compared to yours or a much cheaper option (if someone is looking to strip it out and build a track car).

In terms of platform to sell, I would list on all the main sites you have listed (AutoTrader, Cars.com, Cargurus, etc). I am always a little sketched out by posting on Craigslist for car sales, but thats just me.

I agree with JCZ5... Timing is everything. Seriously though, be prepared to inconsiderate low balling buyers out there. Keep your chin up and don't look too desperate to let go but I am sure you know what to do.

[Thescout13]

Originally Posted by Mr Pete

Yea I'd say $42-45k or so? It's going to be lower in price than the M2C, as it's the 'older model'. Then again, if someone really wants the n54 vs s54, thats to your advantage as I imagine n54 M2's with low mileage are hard to find. But the M2's equipped with 6MT are truly niche vehicles. A buyer who wants it will pay for a well cared for manual version.

Best of luck!

Just a quick correction, the OG M2 here is the N55 and not the N54 IIRC. Other than that, the balance is a good point.

[Hangman4358]

Realistically I would think right between 40k and 43k is where you are going to land.

1. Maintenance does not transfer, only warranty. How pampered it was or how smooth the roads are does not matter.
2. People keep putting their modded cars up on the site for 45-48k and they don't move. "I put 3k into PPF. 6k exhaust! After market CF everything" literally it makes zero difference on the secondary market or is actually a negative.
3. We payed 42k for a 2017, December 2016 build with warranty until end of April 2021, with 28k miles 6 months ago. Got the dealer to drop almost 4k off of there initial "internet special price" with little real work other than being interested and being serious and showing I knew the market. Probably could have really worked another 500 or 1000 but it was the car we wanted.
4. Demand is suppressed.

Put it up for 45k, be ready to get offers for 37k and get the deal done at 41k.

[BallHog5873]

I'd put it on at $44,500,
Don't think you'll have to sell for less than 41.

[mrcheezle19]

I would say price at 40k if you want it to sell in a reasonable amount of time. The number of LCI cars sitting in mid to low 40s is high and they just sit and sit. Look at cargurus and you’ll see cars like yours have been on sale for months. It’s even tougher now with covid. Even harder is the fact that dealers have been knocking off 8-10% of the M2C.

[VisualEcho]

I'm going to side with the others, $40K would be a very quick sale. I'm thinking it's worth $43K, all things considered. Unless it's absolutely flawless, then $45K might be possible.

[TrentMeister]

I'm never having kids

[JCZ5]

Originally Posted by LBbluem2

I'm never having kids

Originally Posted by mrcheezle19

I would say price at 40k if you want it to sell in a reasonable amount of time. The number of LCI cars sitting in mid to low 40s is high and they just sit and sit. Look at cargurus and you'll see cars like yours have been on sale for months. It's even tougher now with covid. Even harder is the fact that dealers have been knocking off 8-10% of the M2C.

Originally Posted by VisualEcho

I'm going to side with the others, $40K would be a very quick sale. I'm thinking it's worth $43K, all things considered. Unless it's absolutely flawless, then $45K might be possible.

$40K would definitely help with the attention. But do we really think there is a market for the M2 right now? mrcheezle19 said best with M2C going for 8-10% off. That's basically mid $50K for a manual option from new.

Which then puts plenty of used M2C at high 40s...definitely tough environment for preowned to be in right now

...funny kid comment haha. But they're worth it, at least that's what people tell me

[RAM_F30_F87]

Here are two listings from https://www.bmwcca.org/. If you're a member, you can place a free ad.

2018 M2 Long Beach Blue DCT 12,200 miles $42,500 OH
Well taken care of, dealer maintained, never tracked, Executive package, carbon fiber rear diffuser, mirror caps, spoiler and front winglets. Additional pics available.

2018 M2 Mineral Gray Metallic 6-speed 10,702 miles $42,500 OBO FL
Executive Package, Black Kidney & Side Grilles, GTECHNIQ Ceramic Coating, Tinted Windows and SunTek PPF Full Front Clear Bra. Balance Factory Warranty to 6/2022 or 50k Miles. Original Owner, Like New, Never Tracked. All Paperwork and Records.

[JCZ5]

Originally Posted by RAM_F30_F87

Here are two listings from https://www.bmwcca.org/. If you're a member, you can place a free ad.

2018 M2 Long Beach Blue DCT 12,200 miles $42,500 OH
Well taken care of, dealer maintained, never tracked, Executive package, carbon fiber rear diffuser, mirror caps, spoiler and front winglets. Additional pics available.

2018 M2 Mineral Gray Metallic 6-speed 10,702 miles $42,500 OBO FL
Executive Package, Black Kidney & Side Grilles, GTECHNIQ Ceramic Coating, Tinted Windows and SunTek PPF Full Front Clear Bra. Balance Factory Warranty to 6/2022 or 50k Miles. Original Owner, Like New, Never Tracked. All Paperwork and Records.

Great data points!

These options are very compelling at the price points listed and unfortunately they have not been moving.

No matter how great OP's car has been maintained and pampered. So are these two vehicles. So this presents two interesting points.

1. It signifies as many already know that you rarely get back the additional "upgrades" you add onto your car. It is tough news to hear for the owners who add them, but the market speaks.

2. To be competitive, OP "needs" to list around these rates or even high 30s to drive attention.

Just looking at the options, these seem like much more compelling options if you're not tied to color or type of gearbox.

The unfortunate case is everyone has a an attachment to their cars and think it's worth more due to XYZ. But we typically over-valuate our cars. That is why it is always a shock when we receive dealer trade in values.

[VisualEcho]

Originally Posted by JCZ5

1. It signifies as many already know that you rarely get back the additional "upgrades" you add onto your car.

1. Always buy the highest quality parts, as you'll get a better percentage on resale. People overwhelmingly buy the part used that they weren't willing to spring for new (BBS FI-R, for example).

2. Always keep your OEM parts, and install before resale. Once the car is sold, then you can sell all the parts separately.

Selling all your parts on your car is just for rich people that just don't care. Or idiots. Take your pick.

[jkoral]

Originally Posted by JCZ5

But do we really think there is a market for the M2 right now?

Not sure, which is why listing prices only tell you one side of the story.

As I PM'd OP -- a family member just bought (April 2020) a 2018 M2, 6MT, Executive, sunroof with 26K for $39.5K from a non-BMW dealer.

I spoke to another Bimmerpost user from the car dealer area who told me he was a day late in buying the same car. So that's 2 buyers looking for a similar spec car (2018 + 6MT) in April 2020.

There haven't been a lot of M2s on BaT, but this 2018 6MT with 5K miles was bid to 40,250 in February 2020 (technically before US pandemic) but the reserve was not met. https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2018-bmw-m2-14/

I think a fair listing price would be 41K, but in all likely hood a final selling price might be around 40K. If I was selling and in the OP's shoes, I would put it out there for 40K firm and hope for a quick sale.

[BigKutta]

Originally Posted by JCZ5

Hi SeniorDriver,

Sorry to hear the news, I'm sure it was a difficult decision to sell something you love, that hopefully brought you many miles of joy. But you're a great father for supporting your daughter in this difficult time.

Now onto the valuation...

Here are some metrics for thought from AutoTrader:
1. Currently 21 M2 nationwide that are manual and with executive package
2. Cheapest listed: $39K w/ ~37K miles
3. Most expensive listed: $55.5K w/ ~1.3K miles

The main question is, when would you like this vehicle to be sold (1 month, 6 months, 1 year)?

I don't have to tell you that auto sales are not very strong at the moment. In addition, the M2 is a very niche vehicle and even more so with a manual. So buyers are limited to highly discernible BMW enthusiasts, who also will be looking for a "deal". Not to mention there is a high inventory of preowned M2C's that are pretty hard to move at this point too. The M2C preowned values will drop and bring along the M2s.

Personally, based on what you have mentioned, I would list it at ~$40K, with obviously some room for negotiations. Here is why...
1. There are already a few M2's with less than 10K miles listed at low $40Ks, with negotiation, the actual sell price may be at $40K or a bit lower.
2. $40K is a reasonable number to bring to my attention based on the mileage and condition. If you want even more of a statement, list it at $38-39K. That would be by far the lowest and would stir up some interest if someone is in the market for one.

In the end, it also goes back to my timeline question. If you want it sold by the summer, you will need to offer it at a price that will grab people's attention. If you list it amongst all the other offering, people may be persuaded to go for either a low mileage option compared to yours or a much cheaper option (if someone is looking to strip it out and build a track car).

In terms of platform to sell, I would list on all the main sites you have listed (AutoTrader, Cars.com, Cargurus, etc). I am always a little sketched out by posting on Craigslist for car sales, but thats just me.

SeniorDriver,

I hope all works out well for you and your family. My approach to negotiations is a bit different. Dont put your cards out all at once, so no, dont be the lowest price listing for the nicest car. Also, dont panic sell. Your low mileage car has value over these listings. Based on the numbers above (thanks JCZ5) I would list at between $42-44k. I think this makes your car very attractive in that range and poised for a quick sale. Now the market is all screwed up, so there is only a particular buyer coming for your car, and thanks to COVID, he will negotiate you down, so this price gives some negotiating room.

I'd say, start at $44k, and you can always drop pricing if negotiated, or gradually as things get closer to the Fall when your daughter needs to go to school. A serious buyer will not run away from the price, he may negotiate, but he/she wont run away without trying.

Good luck!