10 Last-Minute (and thoughtful) Mother’s Day Gifts You Can Actually Pull Off

10 Last-Minute (and thoughtful) Mother’s Day Gifts You Can Actually Pull Off

Show her you care, even if you forgot. Here are 10 last-minute Mother’s Day gift ideas (she'll actually like) that you can pull off this weekend.

Show her you care, even if you forgot

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect gift for your mom (or you forgot), don’t worry – we’re here to make it easy for you. 

Here are 10 great last minute Mother’s Day gifts and gift ideas that are sure to make your mom feel special:

  1. A Spa Gift Certificate: This is a classic for a reason. Treat your mom to a day of relaxation with a gift certificate to a local spa. She can indulge in a massage, facial, or any other pampering treatment she desires. 
  2. A Personalized Photo Book or Frame: Compile your favorite family photos and create a personalized photo book for your mom. You can snag most of them from social media and take them to a quick-print shop or drugstore to have them printed in a booklet. Or you can pick up a digital frame from most big box stores. 
  3. A Subscription Box: Sign your mom up for a monthly subscription box tailored to her interests. Whether she loves books, fitness, gardening, or beauty products, there’s a subscription box out there for her. And there are some fun ones like Boxy Momma for moms who are still momming. 
  4. A Charitable Donation: Make a donation in your mom’s name to a charity she cares about. It’s a thoughtful way to give back and show your appreciation for her. There is even a charitable subscription box that ships really cool handmade goods. 
  5. A Personalized Piece of Jewelry: Get your mom a piece of jewelry that’s engraved with her initials or a special message. You’ll probably have to do it at a brick and mortar store, but most of them can handle this job last minute. It’s a gift she’ll cherish forever.
  6. A Gift Card to Her Favorite Store: If you’re not sure what to get your mom, a gift card to her favorite store is always a safe bet. She can pick out something she truly loves. Some people say this is a cop-out, but if you get the store right, and get a sizeable gift card, she’ll like it more than another candle from TJ Max.
  7. A DIY Gift Basket: Create a personalized gift basket filled with your mom’s favorite things. It could include things like candles (from TJ Max), chocolates, local goods and crafts, a gift card or two, and a cozy blanket.
  8. A Cooking Class: Sign your mom up for a cooking class where she can learn new recipes and techniques. It’s a fun way to spend time together and try something new. But make sure it’s a fancy cooking class. Getting your mom a “cooking 101” gift card might send the wrong message. 
  9. A Nice Day: You don’t have to rush out and get a last minute gift. You can just give the mom in your life a nice day. That could mean brunch with the family (or without the family). Take the mom in your life for a hike, or to a museum. Spending time in nature or learning together is fun and healthy. Or for current moms, just give them the day off. 
  10. A Handwritten Letter: Sometimes the simplest gifts are the most meaningful. Write your mom a heartfelt letter expressing your honest love and gratitude for all she does. Write down a memory of them you come back to, and why it’s special. They’ll cry for sure. 

No matter which gift you choose, remember that the most important thing is to show your mom how much you care. So say something nice, give her a hug, and most of all, cut her some slack. Happy Mother’s Day!

3 Easiest Ways to Sell a Car

3 Easiest Ways to Sell a Car

Table of Contents

The easiest way to sell a car should include minimal effort, time, and can still get you a good deal. At some point, we all have to sell our car, but how do you find the time in the day? Not everyone has the time or skill-set to sell their car on their own. So, What is the easiest way for you to sell your car? Don’t worry, we can help you figure it out. 

Use a Classified Site

One of the easiest ways to sell a car is to use a classified site such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Autotrader. These sites allow you to create an ad for your car and reach a wide audience of potential buyers. They are also typically free or low cost to use. The process of listing your car on a classified site is relatively straightforward. You will need to create an appealing ad, take quality photos of your car, and respond promptly to inquiries from interested buyers. Once you get offers, you also need to arrange to meet up with them for a test drive, and if all goes well, you need any important paperwork on hand. Given that everything goes according to plan, it’s not a bad strategy, but selling privately can be scary. You’ve got to make sure you keep yourself and your car safe. 

  1. Large audience: Classified websites often have large audiences of potential buyers, which increases your chances of finding a buyer quickly.
  2. Free or Low-Cost Listings: Many classified websites offer free or low-cost listings, which can save you money.
  3. Control over the sales process: When selling on a classified website, you have control over the sales process, including setting the price and negotiating with potential buyers.
  1. Competition: With a large audience of sellers, there can be a lot of competition, making it harder to stand out and attract buyers.
  2. Scammers: Classified websites can attract scammers who may try to steal your personal information or scam you out of your money.
  3. Time-Consuming: Selling your car on a classified website can be a time-consuming process, including taking photos, creating a listing, and responding to inquiries from potential buyers.
Steps

Research

Before you start creating your listing, do some research on similar cars in your area to get an idea of what they are selling for. This will help you price your car competitively and increase your chances of selling it quickly.

Create a Listing

Once you've done your research, create a listing for your car on the classified website. Be sure to include all the important details, such as the year, make, model, mileage, and condition of the car, as well as any additional features or upgrades. Take clear photos of your car from multiple angles to help potential buyers get a good sense of its condition.

Be Responsive

When potential buyers contact you, respond quickly and professionally. Answer their questions and provide any additional information they may need to make a decision about whether or not to buy your car.

Negotiate

Be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. They may make an offer lower than your asking price, and you should be willing to consider their offers and counter with a fair price.

Set Up a Test Drive

Once you've found a potential buyer who is interested in your car, set up a test drive. Meet in a public place and bring a friend or family member with you for safety.

Finalize the Sale

If the potential buyer decides to purchase your car, finalize the sale. Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork, such as the title and registration, and transfer ownership of the vehicle to the buyer.

Easy Meter Score:

Lineup of Cars at Dealership parking lot
Cars lined up in a parking lot at a dealership

Trade It In

Another easy option for selling your car is to trade it in at a dealership. This option is convenient because you can do it all in one place and avoid the hassle of selling the car on your own. The dealership will appraise your car and offer you a trade-in value towards the purchase of a new car. However, keep in mind that the trade-in value may be less than what you could get if you sold the car privately. We recommend researching a little bit about the value of your car or just hopping over to Kelley Blue Book first. Make sure you gather all the paperwork you need, like a title, registration, a driver’s license, and more. You could even call ahead and see if there are any additional documents needed, like proof of insurance, tax forms, pay stubs, and such. The dealership will be able to guide you through their process.

  1. Convenience: Trading in a car can be a convenient option, as you can sell your car and purchase a new one in one transaction at the dealership.
  2. Saves Time: Trading in a car can save you time compared to selling it privately, as you don’t have to advertise the car, deal with potential buyers, or complete the paperwork on your own.
  3. Potential Tax Savings: In some states, you may be able to save money on sales tax when trading in a car. This is because you only pay sales tax on the difference between the trade-in value and the price of the new car.
  4. Easy Financing: Trading in a car can also make financing your new car easier, as the dealership can apply the trade-in value to the down payment or purchase price of the new car
  1. Lower Trade-In Value: When trading in a car, you may receive a lower value than if you were to sell it privately. Dealerships need to make a profit on the sale, so they may offer you a lower value than you could get elsewhere.
  2. Limited Options: When trading in a car, you are limited to the options available at the dealership. If you’re looking for a specific make and model, you may not find it at the dealership where you plan to trade in your car.
  3. Less Control: When trading in a car, you have less control over the sales process. You may not be able to negotiate as much as you could in a private sale, and you may not have as much say in the financing or other aspects of the transaction.
  4. No Comparison Shopping: When trading in a car, you don’t have the option to shop around and compare offers from multiple dealerships, as you would when selling the car privately
Steps

Research Car's Value

Before heading to the dealership, research your car's value to get an idea of how much it's worth. You can use online tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an estimate of your car's value based on its make, model, and condition.

Clean & Prepare Your Car

To get the best possible value for your car, it's important to clean and prepare it before heading to the dealership. Wash the exterior, clean the interior, and remove any personal items from the car.

Gather Necessary Documents

When trading in your car, you'll need to bring certain documents with you, including your car's title, registration, and any service records.

Visit the Dealership

Once you're ready to trade in your car, visit the dealership. The dealer will inspect your car and make you an offer based on its condition and market value.

Negotiate the Trade-in Value

If the dealership offers you a trade-in value that's lower than you were expecting, don't be afraid to negotiate. Use your research on the car's value to justify your asking price.

Apply the Trade-in Value

If you accept the trade-in value, the dealership will apply it to the purchase of your new car. This means that you'll pay less for your new car, but you'll also have a lower trade-in value for your old car.

Complete the Paperwork

Once the trade-in value has been applied to the purchase of your new car, you'll need to complete the paperwork for the trade-in. This includes signing over the title and registration to the dealership.

Easy Meter Score:

Using the Carmigo app to sell a car on a mobile phone
Sell your car from your phone

Use Carmigo

Selling your car can be a time-consuming and stressful process, but Carmigo has streamlined the experience to make it as easy and stress-free as possible. In just a few minutes, you can list your car on Carmigo, and they handle all the details from start to finish. Using just a smartphone, you take a few photos for the virtual inspection. Then, Carmigo takes those photos along with additional information you provide and lists your vehicle on their marketplace.

Once your car is listed on Carmigo, potential buyers will start submitting offers. You can set an askingprice, which is the minimum amount you’re willing to accept for your car, and then sit back and watch the offers roll in. Finally, they also cover the transportation from your driveway to the buyers lot. One of the biggest advantages of selling on Carmigo is the ease and convenience of the process.

With just a few clicks on your smartphone, you can list your car and start receiving offers. You don’t have to deal with the hassle of negotiating with potential buyers or figuring out the paperwork on your own. Set the price you want and watch the offers roll in. Once your car sells for top-dollar, you simply wait for them to pick it up and then get paid. So easy.

  1. Easy Listing Process: The listing process on Carmigo is quick and straightforward. 
  2. Wide Audience: Carmigo has a wide audience of potential buyers, which can increase your chances of selling your car quickly.
  3. No Haggling: Carmigo’s pricing is transparent and fair, so there is no need to negotiate with potential buyers.
  4. Fast Payment: Carmigo pays quickly, so you don’t have to wait for a check to clear or deal with the hassle of processing payment.
  5. Free Transportation: Carmigo offers free transportation for your car, which means you don’t have to worry about transporting it to the buyer.
  1. Flat service fee of $350, but only if your car sells. This amount is taken out of the final amount you receive, so you don’t have to pay anything up-front. 
  2. Not ideal for older/classic car or vehicles with a lot of after-market customizations
Steps

Enter Details

Navigate to the Carmigo website and enter your VIN and additional vehicle information to begin.

Snaps Some Pics

After entering all the basic information, snap some pictures of your car on your phone. This whole process takes about 15 minutes.

Set Asking Price

Set your asking price and relax while Carmigo takes care of the rest. Offers will start coming in within the day, and there isn’t a fee unless it sells.

Get Multiple Offers

Receive a top-dollar offer on your used vehicle.

Relax

Wait for your car to be picked up and then get paid!

Easy Meter Score:

The easiest and quickest way to sell a car while still getting a great deal. It requires minimal time, effort, paperwork, and social interactions. If you have a used car that dealerships are looking for, Carmigo can get you offers from multiple buyers so you get the best price for the least amount of work. Everything can be done from your phone and Carmigo representatives are available to help you at any point in the process.

The 4 Best Ways To Sell Your Car in 2023

The 4 Best Ways To Sell Your Car in 2023

Table of Contents

Selling a car can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but it doesn’t have to be. There are several options available for selling your car, including trading it in, selling it privately, selling it to someone in your circle, and using a service like Carmigo. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right option for your circumstances ensures you’ve got the best way to sell your car.

1. Trade In

One of the most convenient ways to sell a used car is to trade it in at a dealership. This is a great option for those who are looking for a hassle-free experience and want to avoid the complexities of selling a car on their own. The dealership will assess the value of your car and give you a trade-in offer that you can either accept or decline. If you accept, you can use the value of your car as a down payment on a new car.

  1. Convenience: Trading in your car is a convenient option because you can do it all in one place. You don’t have to worry about selling your car privately or dealing with potential buyers.
  2. Time-Saving: Trading in your car can save you a lot of time. You won’t have to spend time advertising your car or meeting with potential buyers.
  3. Tax Savings: When you trade in your car, you may be able to save on taxes. In most states, you only pay sales tax on the difference between the trade-in value and the purchase price of the new car.
  4. Guaranteed Sale: When you trade in your car, the dealership will take care of the sale. This means you don’t have to worry about finding a buyer or negotiating the sale price.
  1. Lower Value: When you trade in your car, you may not get the full value for your vehicle. Dealerships need to make a profit on the sale of your car, so they may offer you a lower trade-in value than what you could get if you sold the car privately.
  2. Limited Negotiation: When you trade in your car, you have limited negotiation power. The dealership will offer you a trade-in value, and you can either accept or decline the offer.
  3. Limited Selection: When you trade in your car at a dealership, you’ll be limited to purchasing a car from that dealership’s inventory. This means you may not find the exact car you’re looking for or may have to settle for a car that doesn’t meet all of your needs.
Tips for Trading In

Research

Before you trade in your car, do some research to determine the value of your vehicle. Use resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an estimate of your car's value.

Clean Your Car

Make sure your car is clean and in good condition before taking it to the dealership. A clean car will make a better impression and may result in a higher trade-in value.

Timing

Timing can be important when trading in your car. Consider trading in your car towards the end of the month when dealerships are more likely to be looking to meet sales quotas.

car with for sale sign

2. Sell Privately

Selling a car privately can often be the best way to get the most money for your vehicle. By selling it yourself, you have more control over the selling process and can negotiate the price with potential buyers. However, selling privately can also be time-consuming and require more effort. You will need to create an ad, take pictures, and schedule appointments with potential buyers. Additionally, there is always the risk of dealing with unreliable buyers or scammers. If you have a unique or customized car, this method may be the best way to find a buyer who appreciates its value.

  1. Higher Sale Price: When you sell your car privately, you can set your own price and negotiate with potential buyers to get the best possible price for your vehicle. This means that you’re more likely to get a higher sale price than if you trade it in or sell it to a dealer.
  2. Control Over the Sale: When you sell your car privately, you have more control over the sale. You can choose who you sell your car to, negotiate the price, and set your own terms for the sale.
  3. No Commission or Fees: When you sell your car privately, you don’t have to pay any commissions or fees to a dealer or third-party service.
  4. More Flexibility: When you sell your car privately, you’re not restricted by any deadlines or restrictions. You can take as much time as you need to find the right buyer and close the sale.
  1. Time-Consuming: Selling your car privately can be a time-consuming process. You’ll need to advertise your car, deal with potential buyers, and handle all the paperwork and legal requirements associated with the sale.
  2. Safety Concerns: When you sell your car privately, you’ll be dealing with strangers who may not have the best intentions. This can create safety concerns, especially if you’re meeting with potential buyers in person.
  3. Negotiations: When you sell your car privately, you’ll need to be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. This can be a challenging and uncomfortable process for some people.
  4. Legal Requirements: Selling a car privately comes with a range of legal requirements that you’ll need to be aware of. This includes ensuring that you have a clear title to the car, transferring ownership, and following any relevant state or federal regulations.
Tips for Selling Privately

Research Car's Value

Before you set a price for your car, do some research to find out what other cars of the same make and model are selling for in your area. This will give you a good idea of what price to set for your car.

Clean or Detail Your Car

A clean and well-maintained car is more likely to sell for a higher price than one that is dirty or has visible wear and tear. Take the time to clean and detail your car before you put it up for sale.

Take Good Pics

Good photos are essential when selling a car privately. Make sure to take high-quality photos of your car from multiple angles, both inside and out.

Advertise Effectively

There are several ways to advertise your car when selling privately, including online classifieds, social media, and even putting up flyers in your neighborhood. Make sure to write an appealing description of your car and include all the important details such as its make, model, year, mileage, and any special features.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

When selling privately, potential buyers will likely try to negotiate the price of your car. Be prepared to negotiate, but also know your bottom line and be willing to walk away if the offer is too low.

friends surrounding car

3. Sell to Someone in Your Circle

Selling a car privately can often be the best way to get the most money for your vehicle. By selling it yourself, you have more control over the selling process and can negotiate the price with potential buyers. However, selling privately can also be time-consuming and require more effort. You will need to create an ad, take pictures, and schedule appointments with potential buyers. Additionally, there is always the risk of dealing with unreliable buyers or scammers. If you have a unique or customized car, this method may be the best way to find a buyer who appreciates its value.

  1. Trust: Selling a car to someone in your circle can give you peace of mind knowing that you are dealing with someone you know and trust. This can eliminate the stress and uncertainty that can come with selling a car to a stranger.
  2. Convenience: Selling a car to someone in your circle can be more convenient than other selling methods. You can arrange the sale at a time and place that works for both parties, and you may not have to worry about advertising or negotiating the price.
  3. Easy Transaction: When you sell your car to someone in your circle, the transaction can be more straightforward. You may not need to go through the process of getting your car inspected, filling out paperwork, and transferring the title as the buyer may already know the car’s history.
  4. Lower Risk of Scams: Selling to someone you know can reduce the risk of scams or fraud that can occur when dealing with strangers.
  1. Awkwardness: Selling a car to someone in your circle can be awkward if the sale doesn’t go smoothly or if there are disagreements over the price. This can strain relationships and create uncomfortable situations.
  2. Emotional Attachment: If you are selling a car to a friend or family member, you may have an emotional attachment to the vehicle, which can make it difficult to negotiate or let go.
  3. Potential for Misunderstandings: Selling a car to someone in your circle can create potential misunderstandings if the buyer expects more from the car than what you are willing to offer, or if the buyer is not satisfied with the car’s condition after purchase.
  4. Lower Selling Price: When you sell your car to someone in your circle, you may not get the best possible price for the vehicle. The buyer may be expecting a discount, or you may feel obligated to offer one.
Tips for Selling to Someone in Your Circle

Be Honest

When selling a car to someone you know, it's important to be upfront and honest about the car's condition, history, and any potential issues. This can help build trust and prevent any misunderstandings or disputes down the road.

Set a Fair Price

It's important to set a fair price for the car that reflects its condition and market value. You may want to do some research on similar cars in your area to get an idea of the going rate. However, be prepared for the buyer to ask for a discount, as they may expect one when dealing with someone they know.

Get the Paperwork in Order

Even though you are selling to someone you know, it's important to have all the necessary paperwork in order. This includes the car's title, registration, and any other relevant documents. Be sure to transfer ownership of the car to the buyer properly, and make sure they understand their responsibilities as the new owner.

Make Repairs and Clean the Car

Before selling the car, make any necessary repairs and give it a thorough cleaning. This can help increase its value and make a good impression on the buyer.

Be Professional

Even though you are selling to someone in your circle, it's important to be professional throughout the process. This includes communicating clearly, being prompt and reliable, and following through on any commitments you make.

Consider Payment Options

You and the buyer will need to decide on a payment method that works for both parties. This can include cash, check, or electronic transfer. Be sure to agree on the payment method and terms ahead of time.

Don't Get Emotional

Selling a car to someone in your circle can be emotionally charged, especially if you have an attachment to the car or the buyer. Try to keep emotions in check and focus on the business aspects of the transaction.

carmigo app screen

4. Sell on Carmigo

There are several online marketplaces that can help you sell a car. Some options include carvana, carmax, etc. While these are popular options, there is another service ripe with buyers that want your vehicle. Carmigo offers a marketplace of dealerships that compete via auction for your car. Rather than a singular offer given by other used car marketplaces, Carmigo gets you offers from multiple buyers. You only need to take a few minutes to fill in any necessary info and the rest is handled by the Carmigo team. Within one-business day your car can sell for more than asking and they’ll even pick it up. If your vehicle doesn’t get an offer equal or greater to your reserve price, you have no obligation to sell or pay any service fees. Plus you don’t have to interact with anyone if you don’t want to, but Carmigo is always there if you need them. 

  1. Quick and Easy: One of the biggest benefits of selling your car on Carmigo is that it’s quick and easy. You can create a listing for your car in minutes and start receiving offers from potential buyers right away.
  2. Wide Audience: Carmigo has a wide audience of potential buyers, which means that your car has a better chance of selling quickly and for a fair price.
  3. No Hassle: Selling a car can be a hassle, but when you sell on Carmigo, the platform takes care of all the paperwork and payment process. This means that you don’t have to worry about any of the post-sale details.
  4. Don’t Sell, Don’t Pay: Carmigo lets you list your car for free and you only need to pay the flat service fee if your car meets reserve and sells. If you vehicle doesn’t sell, you don’t pay a dime.
  1. Older or Customized Cars: Carmigo sells your car to a network of dealerships, so the most successful cars on the marketplace are usually cars built within the last ten years or so. While the marketplace sees a variety of vehicles, not many dealerships are looking for classic cars or vehicles with a ton of after-market customizations.
Tips for Selling on Carmigo

Be Honest about Condition

When creating your listing on Carmigo, be honest about your car's condition. This will help ensure that potential buyers are not disappointed when they come to see your car, and it will also help you get the best possible price.

Take Good Photos

Good photos are essential when selling your car on Carmigo. Take clear, well-lit photos of your car from multiple angles, both inside and out. This will help potential buyers get a good sense of your car's condition.

Set a Reasonable Asking Price

Do some research on the market value of your car, consider the condition and mileage and adjust your asking price accordingly. If you set it too high, it might not sell because potential buyers might not be in agreement regarding the worth. If you set it too low, you might not get as much as you could have.

Ask the Carmigo Team for Help

While Carmigo is straightforward and you don’t have to talk to anyone if you don’t want to, they are there to help you if you need it. If you have questions throughout the process, connecting with a Carmigo representative can do the trick.

Sean Peoples Elevated to Carmigo Chief Technology Officer

Sean Peoples Elevated to Carmigo Chief Technology Officer

Sean Peoples has been promoted to the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Tupelo-based technology start-up, Carmigo.

Peoples has been essential in building Carmgio’s cutting-edge technology.

Head Carmigo Website Developer - Sean People's HeadshotTUPELO, Miss. — Sean Peoples has been promoted to the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Tupelo-based technology start-up, Carmigo. 

Peoples, one of the company’s co-founders, served as Carmigo’s head developer and head of product.

“Sean has been at the center of Carmigo since the day I first pitched him the idea,” said Carmigo Founder and CEO Andrew Warmath. “This new title is a reflection of his ongoing role as a leader in shaping our company’s technology offerings.”

Carmigo’s marketplace technology was recently recognized by Auto Fin Journal as an Emerging 8 company, an award given to companies that improve a specific aspect of the automotive industry through technology. 

“Carmigo was recently named one of eight emerging auto-technology companies by industry leaders,” said Carmigo Co-founder and COO Daniel Kim. “That’s thanks in large part to Sean’s contributions and a reflection of his commitment to Carmigo’s mission.”

Peoples will continue to be responsible for the development and maintenance of the Carmigo inspection tool and Carmigo Marketplace. In his new role, he is also exploring new ways to leverage Carmigo’s technology to meet the needs of dealerships across the country.

“I’m honored to accept this new role, but my dedication to Carmigo’s products is the same as it’s always been,” Peoples said. “My goal, and the goal of my team, is to continue to use technology to make selling a car easier for consumers and inventory management easier for dealers.” 

Carmigo Hires Industry Veteran as New Head of Sales, Susan O’Rourke

Carmigo Hires Industry Veteran as New Head of Sales, Susan O’Rourke

Carmigo is bringing Susan O’Rourke on board as the Head of Sales and Development to help continue developing its dealer-facing operations.

O’Rourke to enhance dealer-facing resources

Carmigo is bringing Susan O’Rourke on board as the Head of Sales and Development to help Carmigo continue developing its dealer-facing operations. 

O’Rourke will help Carmigo expand its nationwide network of dealership and wholesale partners and allow them to sell inventory on Carmigo’s marketplace alongside consumer cars.

“I am looking forward to getting back on the auction side of the automotive industry, especially with Carmigo, who is bringing innovative ways to buy and sell inventory from both dealerships and consumers,” O’Rourke said. “After working with ACV in the early years opening 50+ markets, I am excited to help Carmigo build out its dealer-to-dealer program and make acquiring inventory simple and easy.”

With her previous experience at ACV and A2Z Sync, Susan O’Rourke will be working to further build the sales and support organization for current and new dealership and wholesale partners at Carmigo.  She will also work to expand Carmigo’s marketplace coverage through key partnerships.

“The used car market has changed rapidly since Carmigo was founded in early 2021, and we’ve adapted with it,” Andrew Warmath, CEO of Carmigo, said. “Susan’s vast experience in online vehicle marketplaces, along with the strong foundation we’ve built, gives Carmigo a unique ability to continue to evolve with the market while serving our dealership partners.”

O’Rourke is new at Carmigo but no stranger to tech-enabled automotive remarketing and auction platforms. Drawing on her previous experience working closely with dealerships and wholesale partners at ACV, a disruptive dealer-to-dealer auction platform, she will work closely with Carmigo’s product, operations, and marketing team to further develop technology and processes that will serve our commercial partners.

What To Pack In Your Car For Spring Break (Or Any Other Road Trip)

What To Pack In Your Car For Spring Break (Or Any Other Road Trip)

Before Spring Break, whether you’re headed to the beach, the slopes, or the city, here's what to pack for a road trip.
Grab your keys, a surfboard, and some sunscreen. Or maybe you’re more the snowboarding type?

What To Pack For A Road Trip

It’s road trip season!

Grab your keys, a surfboard and some sunscreen. 

Or maybe you’re more the snowboarding type? 

Maybe even the new Super Nintendo World.

Whether you’re headed to the beach or the slopes–or even just taking a few days off to explore your city, you need to make sure you have everything you need.

Table of Contents

Essentials

These are items you should keep in your car at all times. A flat tire or running out of gas can be easily resolved if you’re prepared. Before you embark on a road-trip or even a day-trip, make sure all your essential items are packed up. Fill up your extra gas container if it isn’t already and make sure your car-snacks aren’t expired.

  • Gas container (with extra fuel)
  • Water
  • Snacks
  • First-Aid kit
  • Tire Kit
  • Jumper Cables
  • Window breaker/seatbelt cutter

Comfort

For the sanity and hygiene of all the passengers in the car, start your road trip off on the right wheel by stocking up on napkins, wet wipes, and such. A small space full of trash doesn’t make for a great adventure, so pack stuff to keep things clean. Also, a good road trip host should always pack blankets, pillows, and a brand new cucumber-melon scented air freshener.

  • Napkins
  • Wet Wipes
  • Sanitizer
  • Trash Bags 
  • An air freshener! (a cucumber melon scented one)
  • Pillows & blankets

Entertainment

A road-trip isn’t just about the destination, it’s also about the journey. You want to make the commute enjoyable. A good playlist or podcast does the trick, but if you’ve got tiny humans, you might want to consider some books or movies. It might be extra screen time, but sometimes peace between multiple people in an enclosed space going 60+ MPH is worth it.

  • Books
  • Movies
  • Video Games
  • A road-trip playlist or podcast
  • Electronics & Chargers

Travel Documents

Have you ever traveled several hours for an event only to get there and realize you left your tickets? Or what if your friend ropes you into an international caper, but you forgot to pack your passport so now you ruined the vibe. This can all be avoided by simply double checking that any important travel documents, IDs, cards, etc. are packed. Bonus tip, put it all in a manilla folder and keep it in your car.

  • Credit cards
  • IDs
  • Passport
  • Event Tickets
  • Maps

Daily Essentials/Toiletries

Anything you need on a daily basis, you will need on a road-trip. This is not a good time to skip your medication or use the same contact solution for the entire trip. You and your passengers will all benefit from packing all their daily essentials.

  • Medication
  • Retainers, contact solution, etc
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Deodorant

Warm Weather Essentials

It’s spring break, so most of us will be enjoying the warm weather. With clear blue skies and sunshine comes harmful UV rays, dehydration, and much more. To keep the good memories going, protect your skin and eyes. Stay hydrated and cool. Also take advantage of all the fun things you can do in the sun.

  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Beach Towel
  • Liquid IV (Hydration enhancers)
  • Portable fan
  • Ice cooler
  • Swimming clothes
  • Floats/boats/boards
  • Sand castle supplies
  • Aloe Vera (to treat any sunburn)
  • A tent 
  • Bug spray

Cold Weather Essentials

Not really a warm weather person? That’s okay, we have you covered. For colder vacations, prioritize staying warm and dry. Also remember that driving in wintry conditions comes with many challenges, like potentially swerving off the road or getting stuck. That said, prepare for the worst but hope for the best. Once you have all the safety stuff covered, make room for any excursion equipment like sleds or skis.

  • Snow Tires
  • Gloves
  • Warm Clothes
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Heated blankets
  • Snow shovels
  • Ice scrapers
  • Flashlights
  • Cat litter/rock salt
  • Hot packs
  • Thermos w/ coffee or soup!
  • Fire starter
  • Sleds
  • Skis

Drift Air Freshener Review | From Carmigo Fresh

Drift Air Freshener Review | From Carmigo Fresh

We test out the Drift Air Freshener for you, and we've got to say, it's worth buying.
We love Drift’s classy take on car air fresheners.

Table of Contents

Drift Air Freshener Review in one sentence: This could be the best air freshener we’ve ever tried on Carmigo Fresh.

We’ll start with the only downside. One cannot simply purchase a single drift air freshener. The only way to get these air fresheners is to sign up for a subscription (of course). 

We’ve got a clear stance on subscriptions, they should be upfront, easy to manage, and easy to stop. 

We thought we canceled my subscription after ordering the first one. Alas, another shipment is coming to my door this week.

That said, we’re not that mad. We’ll probably swap out the old ones with the new ones and maybe even do a new review. 

Which Drift Air Freshener Review Do We Do?

You can order single air fresheners or a 3-pack, 6-pack, or 12-pack. We did three because there’s nothing worse than having 12 stinky air fresheners, but we also wanted to have enough to get a good idea of the company overall.

The Drift Sample Pack

The Drift Air Freshener sample pack showed up at our door in a small black box, neatly packed with each scent individually wrapped to keep all the scents safe. 

It also came with a metal visor clip that air fresheners stick to using magnets. 

Finally, it came with three extra bags so you could test each scent, pick one, and save the others for later. They really thought of everything. 

The individual air fresheners are wooden, which helps class up your car and hold scent well. Each scent also feels much more natural than most air fresheners — plenty of scent without being overpowering. 

Amber Drift Air Freshener Review

Amber was the first scent we tried, and we were happy with it from the start. There are hints of sage and lavender, which combine with the amber to create a walk-through-the-forest-after-a-light-rain kind of vibe. 

Rating: 5/5 Freshies

Teak Drift Air Freshener Review

We weren’t as familiar with Teak as a scent (though we have confirmed it’s a type of tree). The folks at Drift say the scent mixes must, amber, pepper, teak, and cedar. Those are all great smells and combined, they’re still great.

The Drift Teak Air Freshener is earthy and subtle and stayed in my car for upwards of two months. It’s easily among my all-time top-5 air fresheners.

Rating: 5/5 Freshies

Cabana Drift Air Freshener Review

Cabana started off on the wrong foot because we prefer a scent with a straightforward name, but Cabana is evocative enough that we could assume beach vibes. 

If you like Piña Coladas and getting caught in the rain, this air freshener is for you. Drift says the Cabana scent combines toasted coconut, fancy (?) cedarwood, bergamot, and sea salt. 

Rating: 5/5 Freshies

Overall Drift Air Freshener Review

The products themselves are five freshies all around. But because of the forced subscription model, we’re going to have to dock a point. 

The Drift Air Freshener Review consensus: 

Rating: 4/5 Freshies

Super Nintendo World Is Here and It’s Like Stepping Into A Super Mario Bros Game

Super Nintendo World Is Here and It’s Like Stepping Into A Super Mario Bros Game

Mario fans in the US can now step into their favorite video games at Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Hollywood.

It's A-Mario, At Universal Studios Hollywood

It’s A-Mario, at Universal Studios Hollywood. On February 17th, the amusement park opened a new themed area centered around the Mario universe. Gaming fans old and young will be excited to experience attractions like a VR Mario kart ride, a toadstool cafe, and plenty of other attractions.

Welcome To Super Nintendo World

If we were taking a Carmigo roadtrip this spring, the new Super Nintendo World is at the top of the list. By the way, most of these pictures are from the park in Japan, but the overall aesthetic is the same. 

Enter through an iconic green pipe and then take in the highly immersive and interactive mushroom kingdom. It feels like you’ve entered a video game. You might notice Peach’s Castle, a charming structure with pink roofing and a stained glass window fit for a princess. There are plenty of fun things you can interact with here like paintings that change artwork. 

Flex Your Gaming Skills

Once you’re feeling bold, you can head over to Bowser’s Castle and get on the signature super Nintendo world ride, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. Like the game, park guests can experience an augmented reality Mario kart race and attempt to beat Bowser. The line to the actual ride is a very well-decorated castle that you wouldn’t expect from a mean turtle.

There is also the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown which is an interactive game you can play against other people at the park. If you lose and have to rage quit, you can also try the twomp game or the piranha plant game. All of them include jumping and running around, so be prepared. 

The many moving parts in the vibrant Super Nintendo World, like the swaying piranha plant, pacing koopas (the yellow turtles) and goombas (those little brown mushroom dudes), and rotating coins, make the experience feel like you’re in the actual games. 

It might take everything in your power to not collect the coins, but the in-theme power-bands offered to guests allow you to interact with them and rack up some change. These coins/points you collect are tracked on the universal studios app as well. Through the app you can discover several activities to do in the area that give you achievements and coins. 

Photo Opportunities, Souvenirs, & Food

Of course, you can also find your favorite characters like Mario and Luigi wandering around. Princess Peach even makes her royal entrance from her castle. The characters are just as interactive as the surroundings. The eyes and mouth on the characters actually move and the voices are straight from the games.

After you meet your favorite characters, you can check out gift shops, which are stocked with plenty of super mario bros themed merchandise, including the hats. You know you want a mario hat. 

This part of universal studios has a unique dining option as well, the Toadstool Cafe, hosted by Chef Toad. Some delicious bites you can find here include cheesy garlic knots, super mushroom soup, and a princess peach cupcake. 

You could easily spend an entire day in the Super Nintendo World. There is plenty to do for the entire family and endless photo opportunities. This new addition to Universal Studios has everything a Nintendo fan could imagine but also stands alone as a great theme park for your average person.

Need Help Packing For A Super Road Trip?

Before you set off on that family vacation to Super Nintendo World, check out our guide on what to pack for a road trip.

5 Easy Soups To Make This Month

5 Easy Soups To Make This Month

Depending on where you live– it's either pretty chilly or you're right in the middle of faux spring. Either way, a souper easy recipe is always a good call. We rounded up our five fave soups to try.
These soups are not only tasty, they also can be done in about 30 mins. We love an easy process 'round here.

Table of Contents

Photo & Full Recipe: twosleevers.com
instructions:
  • Put in all ingredients except peanut butter into your Instant Pot and set your cooker to High Pressure for 10 minutes. I used a frozen block of chicken thighs which took about 15 minutes, so just adjust cooking time based on what cut of meat you’re using.
  • Allow it to release pressure naturally and open the lid carefully.
  • Mix in the peanut butter a little at a time. Taste with each addition as your reward for cooking. Taste the peanut butter too, make sure it’s good stuff.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

African Peanut Soup

“There is absolutely nothing better than this African Peanut Soup when you need an easy dinner idea! It’s nutty, delicious, and is the perfect comfort food!”

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
6 Servings
Ingredients:

1 cup Onionchopped

2 tbsp Garlicminced

1 tbsp Minced Gingerminced

1 tsp Kosher Salt

1/2 tsp Ground Cumin

1/2 tsp Ground Coriander

1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper

1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon

1/8 tsp Ground Cloves

1 tbsp Tomato Paste

1 pound boneless skinless chicken ( breasts or thighs) cut into large chunks

3-4 cups Swiss chardchopped (or other leafy greens of your choice)

1 cup Frozen Mixed Vegetables

1/2-1 cup Water

For Finishing:

1/3-1/2 cup Crunchy Peanut Butter

Photo & Full Recipe: mommymusings.com
instructions:
  • Mix 3 1/2 cups chicken stock, ginger, garlic salt and pepper in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir cornstarch into the remaining 1/2 cup chicken stock and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk 2 eggs. Set aside.
  • When seasoned chicken stock comes to a boil, add in cornstarch mixture. Stir. Add sliced green onions.
  • Bring broth to a rolling boil. Once achieved, stir broth with a non-slotted spoon in one direction. While stirring, slowly pour in eggs. Eggs will cook as soon as they hit the broth. Top with extra green onions, if desired.

Homemade Egg Drop Soup

“This Homemade Egg Drop Soup Recipe is just like your favorite Chinese takeout soup. With just a few simple ingredients and about 10 minutes, you can have warm and comforting egg drop soup at home.”
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
4 Servings
Ingredients:

2 Eggs

4 cups chicken stock

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tsp ground ginger

¼ tsp garlic salt

⅛ tsp Black Pepper

3 scallions, sliced

For Garnishing:

Extra scallions

Photo & Full Recipe: littlefiggy.com
instructions:
  • Turn on the saute function on your Instant Pot and add olive oil. Add in the onion and garlic. Cook until the onions are soft, about 5 minutes. Turn off the saute setting.
  • Add in the chicken broth, water, potatoes, corn, guascas or oregano, cilantro, spring onions, salt and pepper, chicken breast (placed on top).
  • Close the lid and turn the valve to sealing. Turn on the the soup setting and cook (30 minutes). Once finished cooking allow to depressurize. Switch the valve to venting to allow it to finish depressurizing, carefully open the Instant Pot.
  • Remove the chicken breast, shred with a couple of forks, then return to the stew and gently mix in.
  • Serve this Instant Pot Colombian Chicken Potato and Corn stew, garnish with your choice of avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, capers and sour cream if desired.

Colombian Chicken Corn and Potato Stew

“Serve this with a bowl of rice on the side, avocado slices, capers if you’d like, cilantro, plus a squeeze of lime, and a few warmed tortillas to seriously enjoy this stew.”

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
4-6 Servings
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large yellow onion, diced

4 – 5 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp coarse salt

1 tbsp freshly ground pepper

4 cups chicken stock

1 1/2 cups water

2 pounds mixed Idaho Potatoes (such as baby Dutch yellow potatoes & baby reds), cut into bite-size chunks or left whole if small enough

2 to 3 ears fresh corn, cut into quarters, or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels

1 bunch cilantro, with stems, finely chopped

1 bunch spring onions, diced

2 tbsp dried guascas or oregano

2 – 3 pounds boneless, skinless, chicken breasts (left whole)

For Garnishing:

Avocado slices

Mexican crema or sour cream

Capers

Lime wedges

Cilantro

Photo & Full Recipe: tasteofhome.com
instructions:
  1. In a 6-qt. stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add carrots, onion and garlic; saute until carrots are tender, 4-5 minutes.
  2. Stir in orzo, chicken and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes. Stir in peas, spinach and dill; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until orzo is tender, 3-4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice. If desired, top each serving with coarsely ground pepper.

Dill Chicken Soup

“I could eat soup for every meal of the day, all year long. I particularly like dill and spinach—they add a brightness to this light and healthy soup.” —Robin Haas, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
6 Servings
Ingredients:

1 tbsp canola oil

2 medium carrots, chopped

1 small onion, coarsely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta

1-1/2 cups coarsely shredded rotisserie chicken

6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

1-1/2 cups frozen peas (about 6 ounces)

8 ounces fresh baby spinach (about 10 cups)

2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or 1 tablespoon dill weed

2 tsp lemon juice

For Garnishing:

Coarsely ground pepper, optional

Photo & Full Recipe: tasteofhome.com
instructions:
  1. In a 6-qt. stockpot, bring broth to a boil. Carefully drop sausage by heaping teaspoonfuls into boiling broth. Add tortellini, tomatoes and Italian seasoning; return to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 8-10 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and pasta is tender. Stir in spinach until wilted

Spicy Sausage Soup with Tortellini

“This soup is such a family treasure, both my daughters asked for the recipe when they moved out on their own. I cook the tortellini separately, but you can let it plump up in the soup broth, too.” —Cynthia Krakowiak, Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
8 Servings
Ingredients:

2 cartons (32 ounces each) chicken broth

1 pound bulk hot or mild Italian sausage

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) fire-roasted or Italian diced tomatoes

1 tsp Italian seasoning

3 cups fresh spinach, thinly sliced

Leave a comment below and let us know if you try any of these delicious recipes and how they turn out! Oh, and now that you have all this time on your hands, we've got oooone more easy recipe you can try:

instructions:
  1. Fill out a few details about your car
  2. Take pics using our virtual inspection tool
  3. Set your asking price. You’ll only pay a $350 fee if we meet or beat this price. 
  4. List your car to our nationwide network of dealers and receive multiple offers in one day.
  5. Sit back and relax. Once your car is sold, we handle the rest.

Easy 10-Min Car Selling Recipe

“Sold my vehicle for asking price within three hours of being posted!” –Trenton W.

Listing Time: 10 mins
Sell Time: 1 day
Offers: Multiple
Ingredients:

Your Smart Phone

Your Car

Seriously, that’s it. We do all the paperwork & money stuff

 

Sell Your Car in 3 Easy Steps!

Sell Your Car in 3 Easy Steps!

Carmigo’s virtual inspection technology allows you to sell your car from anywhere and get offers from our network of dealerships in a day.

What’s the Easiest Way to Sell Your Car? We’ll Show You

Table of Contents

You’re on the Carmigo website. Did you think we were going to say someone else? No. It’s Carmigo. 

But seriously, Carmigo’s virtual inspection technology allows you to list your car from anywhere and get trade-in offers from our network of dealerships in a day.

Stick around, and we’ll tell you why.

Taking good photos of premium upgrades is how to start a bidding war for your car.1. Snap Some Pics 

Thanks to our virtual inspection technology, you can inspect and sell your car from anywhere by taking a few pictures. It truly takes less than 10 minutes. 

Our virtual inspection tool will guide you through the process of taking pictures of your car from 12 different angles using your phone’s camera. Then our software will scan those photos to create a detailed report for our buyers. 

Then you’ll answer a short questionnaire about your vehicle’s features, history, and condition. 

Finally, set your minimum price. If you get an offer on the Carmigo marketplace that meets or beats the price, it sells automatically — no negotiating or haggling required. 

KBB ICO (Instance Cash Offer) requires sellers to drive to the participating dealerships for inspections.2. Answer Some Questions 

Carmigo’s marketplace brings you multiple offers for your car, so you don’t have to drive from dealership to dealership comparing trade-in offers or, worse, get scammed in a private sale. 

The buyers love it because they don’t have to spend their whole day inspecting cars they don’t want. They can search for the specific cars they need for their lot and make an offer. 

Buyers from all over our network make offers on our marketplace daily, giving you competitive industry prices instead of one or two local trade-in offers. 

Unlike with KBB ICO (KBB Instant Cash Offer) Carmigo let's you do the whole sale from your phone. We even pick it up after it sells.3. Set Your Price 

The final step is pretty self-explanatory. We’ll help you generate a fair-market estimate for your vehicle, but you set your asking price. If the highest offer comes in at or above that price, your car automatically sells. 

Carmigo Will Handle the Rest

You can sit back and wait for the offers to roll in. Once your listing goes live, buyers will have about one business day to make an offer on your car. Each new offer must be higher than the last, and we’ll send you a message each time a new offer comes in. 

This is where the Carmigo Marketplace shines. Because our marketplace listings expire after a day, there is daily activity. Buyers don’t want to miss out on a listing, so they check back regularly. 

And because the buyers can see their competitors’ offers, a sense of competition over a car can drive more offers. 

At the end of the day, if the highest offer meets or beats your price, the car sells. 

As soon as the sale goes through, we’ll begin paying off your car loan (if you have one) and transfer the remaining balance to your account. 

Our title clerk will ensure the legal transfer of ownership from you (or the bank) to the new buyers. 

We’ll handle any additional paperwork, and we’ll even pick it up.

What Our $350 Fee Includes

For our part, Carmigo charged a $350 flat sell fee. We’ll take the $350 out of the sale proceeds if your car sells before transferring the rest to your bank account. And if your car doesn’t sell, you don’t pay.