How to determine market value

Just prior to passing away in October my father asked me to help him sell his 2002 Tacoma. He was very proud of the truck and knew that it had value beyond your typical small pickup. At 77 years old he always loved driving the truck. I began researching the internet but he passed before I could get the job done. I made him a promise that I would sell the truck for a fair price and make sure my mother received the money.

In researching this site, NADA, KBB, Edmunds, etc. as well as numerous listings I believe the value of the truck between $15 and $13K. However, a few relatives have made low ball offers to my mother ($5K), others have said you won't get anything for a truck that is more than 10 years old with 146,000 miles on it.

So, I will list as much information as I can and hope that some of you can provide me with some wisdom as to where to start with price.

First, is there a website I can go to with the VIN that will provide me the complete spec. of the truck as he ordered it from Toyota?

Here are the specs as I know them.

2002 Toyota Tacoma DBL cab, V6 3.4L, SR5, TRD.
He is the original owner and had the dealer to all maintenance. Dealer also replaced the Transmission at 59,000.
Truck has no rust other than the rear bumper below the plate.
Newer tires and rims from Discount Tire.
Non-smoker
Never off-road
Always garaged
Reese hitch
No dings, dents, scratches
Original matts, drivers side is worn.


Thanks a ton and may DL Bowron RIP

 

Depending on the condition of the frame (these frames rust out to the point of failure) since you are in the rust belt and WHY the transmission needed to be replaced at 59k, you can EASILY get $13k. Maybe more if it's in great condition.

There's always a benefit for selling to family to avoid paying taxes on the sale (depending on the state, it could be a "gift").

 

If it does not have frame rust issues, $13k is not unreasonable, I would not sell either of the two trucks I have for $13k,

 

Thank you for the three responses. Is there a way to get more people to see this post and respond??? Thanks so much.

 

Depending on rust and the tranny issue, that truck would sell for $15k in California. But that's Cali where Tacomas get a premium, especially that model.

 

Unfortunatemy the VIN won't tell you the complete specs. It won't have all of the options like ABS or even the rear locker depending on the model.

But here's this link:
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/27469-vin-decoder.html

 

be careful about relatives.....

 

First, condolences to you and your family.

The rest of your family/relatives are obviously unfamiliar with the infamous 'Taco tax' (where they sell for more than is logical) or they are trying to take advantage of the situation.

The market value is what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller where neither has to buy or sell.

That said, if you can validate that frame rust is not an issue, you need to determine the normal selling prices in your area. Not California, Florida, etc. etc.

If that range is $13-$15k as you suggest, then price it on the high end and see what happens. On a paid for vehicle you have no pressure to sell in a hurry, so you can afford to wait for the right buyer.

Based on number of inquires and offers you may, or may not get, you'll know how to adjust your listing..........

 

sorry to hear about your loss. as long as frame rust is not an issue, you can get a lot of money for that truck, i would be willing to pay 15k for my truck if I knew how badass they were, def don't listen to your relatives, they have no idea, your dad loved the truck for a reason! older = wiser

 

Thanks so much to each of you who responded. The truck is "for sale" now and we have it listed for $15,000 or best offer. Feel free to pass this on to anyone that may have an interest. I understand shipping costs are pretty reasonable. The truck is 80 miles west of Chicago, IL right now. I have a car trailer and could transport for a fee.