Article
Five Key Questions to Ask Before You Sell Your Jet
When the time comes to sell your jet, the first instinct is often to ask, “What’s it worth?”
But focusing only on today’s value overlooks the bigger decisions that determine how much you’ll actually net from the sale. And, just as important, it affects how smoothly the process goes.
How to Know When It’s the Right Time to Sell Your Jet
Before you start the listing process, take time to answer these five critical questions: 1. Am I timing the market correctly? Market dynamics shift quickly, and in the case of the most popular jets, almost monthly. Listing during a buyer’s market may lead to longer days on market or price concessions, while sellers who act during high-demand windows often capture premiums. Before you sell your jet, understand where your model sits in the market cycle. This insight helps you decide whether to sell now or wait.2. How will this affect my next acquisition?
Selling isn’t just about the aircraft you’re leaving, it’s also about the one you’re stepping into. Coordinating timing and availability on both sides of the transaction ensures you don’t get stuck without an aircraft, or worse, forced into a rushed decision on your next jet.3. What are the tax and depreciation implications?
From bonus depreciation to Section 179, the timing of your sale can create either significant tax advantages or unintended liabilities. A clear strategy on when and how to sell can preserve capital you’d otherwise leave on the table.4. Am I maximizing my resale value through preparation?
Presentation matters. Complete and organized logbooks build trust. Fresh cosmetic details show care. And positioning your jet well against similar aircraft can dramatically influence how buyers perceive value. Small, upfront investments often pay off in a stronger sale price and faster close. Professional presentation through vivid photography and engaging video almost always results in shorter days on market.5. Do I have the right representation to protect my interests?
Selling a jet involves more than a handshake. Without the right guidance, hidden middlemen, poorly structured agreements, or weak negotiation can cost hundreds of thousands and quietly chip away at your return. Equally important is having an experienced seller who knows your aircraft model inside and out — someone who can highlight its best characteristics and turn even the most casual tire-kicker into a committed buyer, often willing to pay a premium. Working with a trusted representative not only protects your interests but also maximizes your aircraft’s appeal and ensures the deal works in your favor.The Takeaway
Answering these five questions before you sell your jet will set you up for success. You’ll be in a position to capture more value, reduce risk and make the transition into your next aircraft far smoother. Thinking of selling? A complimentary valuation and strategy session with The Jet Agent can help you get started on the right path.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Denise Wilson, CAM, is the founder and President of The Jet Agent. Wilson has more than 25 years of experience in all facets of the aviation industry. This includes 20+ years of flying Citations and other jets in both business aviation and commercial operations, and 18 years assisting clients in the acquisition and sales of jet aircraft.
She previously served as founder & CEO of Desert Jet, collectively consisting of an aircraft acquisitions and sales division, a jet charter and management company, a jet maintenance business, and a popular FBO featuring a newly built private terminal, Desert Jet Center. Under her leadership, the company grew exponentially, ranking on the Inc. 500 list of the nation’s fastest growing, privately-owned companies five consecutive years.
As a jet aircraft broker and acquisition consultant, Wilson provides concierge-level acquisition representation, aircraft sales, and coaching to clients. She authored the Amazon #1 Bestseller “The Insider’s Guide to Buying and Selling Jets.”
