It's all about finding the right buyer for the right car. Years ago I had a perfect 1995 Audi Sport Quattro. After 7 years and 70,000 miles, it was time to sell (got married and a baby on the way). Trade in value was a dismal $5000 because this type of car people wanted automatics, althought I disagree.

Anyway, I held on to the car and put it on Autotrader in mid summer. Not too much activity during the summer months, but as soon as the weather turned, I was getting 2-3 calls per week.

I ended up selling the car for $10,000 to a kid from pennsylvania who had this exact car, but was totaled by some idiot who ran him off the road. When he drove it, and the ported throttle body kicked in, I knew the car was sold.

When I went back to the dealership (family friend) to pick up my new car, I ran into the used car estimator, and told him I sold the car he offered $5000 in trade in (Book value) for $10,000 he politely asked me if I had ever given thought to selling used cars?

So it's all about finding that special buyer for that special car.

My opinion on tire kickers, is that most people want something for nothing, holding out for the miracle barn find, that doesn't exist.