Selling Your Phone: the Prep Work

Have you thought about selling your phone? Maybe you're looking to upgrade to that shiny iPhone X everyone is talking about, or maybe you're ready to downsize on the screen with a model like the iPhone 12 Mini. Or perhaps you're just ready for something different (Google Pixel 5, anyone?). No matter the reason why you’re selling your phone, you need to make sure you know how to sell it as well. In this blog, we’ll cover all the steps we recommend taking before your phone is ready to sell. You’re on your way to that new Samsung Galaxy S21, or whatever new phone your heart desires!

Step 1: Clean Your Phone

No one wants to buy a phone covered in fingerprints and smudges, even if it’s an iPhone 12 Pro! Cleaning your phone should come first and foremost, no matter how old or new the model is. Use disinfectant wipes or spray to clean your screen, the back of your phone, and your phone case if you have one.

Step 2: Backup Your Data

This step is mostly for you as the seller. You’re going to want to backup all of your important data before resetting your phone, erasing that data, and selling your phone. Most phones come with automatic backup; all you have to do is turn it on. But you can also use services like Google Drive or iCloud.

Step 3: Do a Factory Reset

Unless you want your phone’s next user to see all of your pictures, documents, and other data, make sure you perform a factory reset on your phone before attempting to sell it. Most phones, including iPhones and Samsungs, allow you to reset them through the Settings app. A factory reset will erase all of your data from your phone so its next user can have a fresh start.

Step 4: Use a Phone Case and Screen Protector 

Before you sell your phone, treat it as if it were brand new and protect it with a phone case and screen protector. Your phone will have more market value if it is in excellent condition, which means you’ll make more money off of it! Besides, even you would be hesitant to purchase a used iPhone 11 or Samsung Galaxy Note 20 with a cracked screen or missing/broken button. It pays off to treat your devices well.

Step 5: Consider Getting a Repair

This step might not be necessary for everyone, but if you have a minor issue with your phone like a cracked screen or broken front/rear camera, you might want to have those issues repaired before selling. That way, you have a higher chance of getting your asking price for the phone and therefore more money to put towards a new phone like an iPhone XR! Bottom line? If you decide to sell your phone, make sure you’re doing it the right way, both for yourself and your phone’s future user. And if you need any assistance cleaning your phone, performing a factory reset, getting a repair, or purchasing any accessories, just give FixIT Mobile a call!