For the last few months, I have been moonlighting as an auction specialist for one of the top three digital auction sites. The experience has been enlightening, especially as it relates to how sellers view their cars.
Some view them as investments, but the majority don't seem to perceive their oftentimes limited-production specialty vehicle as an item worth presenting to the best of their abilities. While I realize there are many daily drivers that now fall under the heading of limited-production and/or enthusiast-grade, many sellers seem to treat them like any other commuter car.
Because so many manufacturers are building enthusiast-friendly vehicles, there's an accompanying upkeep need that goes along with that. High performance components like brakes, tires, adjustable suspension, light-weight body panels and so on demand that sellers have records that back up a lifetime (however short that may be) of ongoing, proactive maintenance.
One of the stranger habits involves Porsche 996 owners. We all know by now the IMS bearing is a source of concern and value-killing detail if not verified in the car's history. A seller of a 911 was fairly unaffected by the fact he didn't get a record of some kind from the selling dealer that swore up and down the IMS was replaced. Sorry - if I'm buying a 911 and paying dealership prices, you better believe I'm not leaving until I have documentation in hand that the IMS was done. On the car in question, there was a loan, and it blew my mind that the seller didn't pursue the dealer like a hungry dog on a bone to get access to those records, or otherwise bring the car back in and demand proof of the work being done.
Sellers, do yourself a favor and don't underscore the need for strong records. If you have them, use them (or better yet, scan and store them with TheCommonGear.com) and don't think for a second that one invoice or parts receipt can't swing a sale price $10,000 in your favor.