Best Sedans to Flip for Profit in 2025: Complete Guide

Why Sedans Make Sense for Flippers

Everyone chases SUVs and trucks, leaving sedans undervalued. The sedan market has quieter competition, lower entry costs, and surprisingly strong demand. Commuters, new drivers, and budget-conscious buyers actively seek reliable sedans. Your competition is chasing $20,000 trucks while you're making consistent $1,500 profits on Accords.

The math works: a $7,000 Accord flipped for $9,000 generates similar ROI to a $15,000 truck flipped for $18,500—with half the capital at risk. For new flippers, sedans offer a safer learning curve.

Top Sedans to Flip

Honda Accord (2012-2017)

The Accord is the sedan flipping workhorse. The 2.4L four-cylinder is bulletproof. The V6 commands slight premium but has timing belt maintenance. Target EX and EX-L trims—leather sells faster. Avoid Sport trims with worn suspensions from aggressive drivers.

Buy target: $6,500-$9,500 for 80K-120K miles. Sell target: $8,500-$12,000. Look for single-owner examples with service records. The 2013-2015 models are sweetest—post-redesign but strong depreciation.

Toyota Camry (2012-2017)

The Camry sells fastest due to reputation. Everyone trusts a Camry. Margins are slightly thinner than Accord because Camry pricing is more efficient. Compensate with volume—you can turn Camrys in 10-14 days consistently.

Buy target: $6,000-$9,000 for 80K-120K miles. Sell target: $7,800-$11,500. SE and XLE trims move fastest. The 2015-2017 facelift models have better resale appeal.

Lexus ES 350 (2013-2018)

The premium play. Higher buy-in but exceptional margins for experienced flippers. The ES is a luxury Camry with Lexus premium pricing power. Buyers expect perfection—reconditioning must be thorough. Detail interior, fix all cosmetics, address any worn switchgear.

Buy target: $12,000-$17,000 for 60K-100K miles. Sell target: $15,000-$21,000. The 2016-2018 models with updated infotainment command top dollar.

Nissan Altima (2013-2018)

The budget entry point. Altimas are everywhere, cheap, and move quickly. Margins are thinner but so is competition—many flippers avoid Nissans. The CVT concerns keep prices low, but properly maintained examples are reliable through 150K miles.

Buy target: $4,500-$7,000 for 70K-100K miles. Sell target: $6,000-$9,000. Verify CVT service history. The 2.5L four-cylinder is preferred over 3.5L V6.

Mazda 6 (2014-2017)

The enthusiast's choice. The Mazda 6 drives better than competitors and attracts buyers who appreciate that. Smaller market means longer hold times but strong margins. Target Grand Touring trim with leather and sunroof.

Buy target: $7,000-$10,000 for 70K-100K miles. Sell target: $9,000-$12,500. The SKYACTIV engine is reliable with no CVT concerns. Expect 21-28 day average hold time.

Sourcing Strategy

Facebook Marketplace

Best margins come from Facebook. Motivated sellers, less competition from dealers, and room to negotiate. Search daily for new listings. Set up alerts for target models. Respond within minutes to fresh listings—speed wins deals.

Craigslist

Still viable for experienced buyers. More scams require vigilance. Sellers often list on both platforms—cross-reference to avoid duplicates. Better for older/cheaper sedans where Facebook sellers prefer quick sales.

Estate Sales

Underutilized source. Executors want quick, hassle-free sales. Low-mileage sedans from elderly owners often appear. Build relationships with estate attorneys for first-look opportunities.

Reconditioning Checklist

• Deep clean interior: Shampoo carpets, condition leather, clean all crevices. Budget $50-$150 DIY or $150-$300 professional.
• Paint correction: Clay bar, polish minor scratches, apply sealant. Adds $300-$500 perceived value for $50-$100 cost.
• Address cosmetic damage: PDR for dents ($50-$100 each), touch-up paint for chips ($20-$50).
• Replace worn items: Floor mats ($50-$100), wiper blades ($20-$40), burnt-out bulbs ($10-$30).
• Fresh oil change: Proves maintenance, gives buyer confidence. $40-$60 with filter.

Pricing for Quick Sale

Research is non-negotiable. Check KBB private party value, examine current Facebook Marketplace listings, and analyze recent sold comparables if available. Price 5-8% below the lowest similar listing. The first week matters most—interest drops significantly after 7 days.

Build negotiation room into your asking price. List at $500-$800 above your minimum acceptable price. Buyers expect to negotiate—give them a win while protecting your margin.