The Embraer Phenom 300 series has been the best-selling light jet for over a decade, and for good reason. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and comfort makes it a highly sought-after aircraft in the pre-owned market. However, with increased inventory levels and more competition, sellers need to be strategic to maximize value and attract serious buyers quickly.
Understanding the Current Phenom 300 Market
Before diving into specific selling strategies, it's important to understand the market dynamics for the Phenom 300:
Market Position
- High Demand: Consistently one of the most sought-after light jets
- Strong Residual Values: Maintains value better than many competitors
- Active Market: Regular transaction activity across all variants
- Model Evolution: Phenom 300E commands premium over original 300
Competitive Landscape
Your Phenom 300 competes with:
- Other Phenom 300s (particularly the newer 300E)
- Citation CJ4
- Learjet 75
- Honda HondaJet Elite
- Pilatus PC-24
Understanding this competition helps position your aircraft effectively.
Pre-Sale Preparation
The work you do before listing your aircraft can significantly impact both the sale price and time on market.
1. Maintenance and Records
Complete Outstanding Items
- Address all deferred maintenance
- Complete any open ADs (Airworthiness Directives)
- Ensure all systems are operational
- Consider completing upcoming scheduled maintenance
Organize Documentation
- Create a comprehensive logbook summary
- Compile all STCs and modifications
- Document all upgrades and improvements
- Prepare a detailed maintenance history
Pre-Purchase Inspection Readiness
- Conduct a pre-listing inspection to identify issues
- Address any findings before listing
- Have recent records readily available
- Prepare a detailed status report
2. Avionics and Interior Assessment
Avionics Evaluation
- Ensure all systems are current with software updates
- Consider strategic upgrades that add value
- Document all installed equipment and capabilities
- Verify ADS-B and other mandate compliance
Interior Condition
- Professional detailing is essential
- Address any wear or damage
- Consider refurbishment if condition is poor
- Ensure all passenger amenities function properly
Exterior Presentation
- Professional exterior detailing
- Address any paint issues or corrosion
- Ensure all lighting functions properly
- Clean and polish all visible components
3. Professional Documentation
Photography
- Hire a professional aviation photographer
- Capture exterior from multiple angles
- Document interior comprehensively
- Include avionics and cockpit details
- Showcase any unique features or upgrades
Specifications Sheet
- Create a detailed specifications document
- Include all installed equipment
- Document performance capabilities
- Highlight any unique features or upgrades
Pricing Strategy
Setting the right price is critical to attracting serious buyers while maximizing value.
Research Comparable Sales
- Review recent Phenom 300 transactions
- Analyze asking vs. sold prices
- Consider year, total time, and equipment differences
- Account for market trends and seasonal factors
Competitive Positioning
Price to Sell, Not to Test the Market
- Overpricing extends time on market
- Extended listings can stigmatize an aircraft
- Price reductions signal desperation
- Initial pricing should be aggressive but fair
Consider Your Timeline
- Need to sell quickly? Price more aggressively
- Willing to wait? Can price at market high end
- Factor in carrying costs during listing period
Highlight Value Propositions
Justify your asking price by emphasizing:
- Low total time or cycles
- Recent major maintenance events
- Upgraded avionics or systems
- Premium interior condition
- Comprehensive equipment package
Marketing Your Phenom 300
Effective marketing reaches qualified buyers and presents your aircraft in the best light.
Professional Listing
Choose the Right Platforms
- Controller.com
- Trade-A-Plane
- JetNet
- Aviation Week Marketplace
- Broker networks and email lists
Create Compelling Descriptions
- Lead with key selling points
- Use specific numbers and details
- Avoid generic descriptions
- Highlight what makes your aircraft unique
- Be honest about condition and history
Leverage Broker Expertise
Why Use a Broker
- Access to qualified buyer network
- Professional marketing materials
- Negotiation expertise
- Transaction management experience
- Legal and regulatory knowledge
Selecting the Right Broker
- Experience with Phenom 300 transactions
- Strong market presence
- Responsive communication
- Proven track record
- Appropriate fee structure
Direct Marketing
Complement broker efforts with:
- Social media presence
- Industry network outreach
- Direct contact with potential buyers
- Aviation event attendance
During the Sale Process
How you manage the sale process impacts both timeline and final price.
Responding to Inquiries
- Respond promptly to all serious inquiries
- Provide requested information quickly
- Be transparent about aircraft history
- Facilitate inspection scheduling
Managing Showings
Preparation
- Ensure aircraft is clean and presentable
- Have all documentation organized
- Make aircraft available for inspection
- Provide detailed status and history
During Showings
- Be professional and accommodating
- Allow thorough inspection
- Provide honest answers to questions
- Don't oversell or exaggerate capabilities
Negotiation
Be Reasonable
- Consider all serious offers
- Understand market realities
- Don't be insulted by lower offers
- Focus on net proceeds, not asking price
Transaction Structure
- Consider creative deal structures
- Be flexible on closing timelines
- Accommodate reasonable buyer requests
- Work toward win-win outcomes
Pre-Purchase Inspection Phase
This is where deals can fall apart or solidify.
Facilitating the Inspection
- Choose an inspection facility that knows the Phenom
- Provide all requested records promptly
- Be present or available during inspection
- Don't hide problems - address them proactively
Managing Findings
Expected Items
- Every aircraft has some discrepancies
- Differentiate between significant and minor issues
- Be prepared to address legitimate concerns
- Negotiate fairly on repair costs or price adjustments
Dispute Resolution
- Work collaboratively with buyer
- Engage technical experts when needed
- Consider third-party opinions
- Focus on maintaining transaction momentum
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overpricing
The most common mistake. An overpriced aircraft:
- Attracts fewer inquiries
- Sits on market longer
- Becomes "stale" in buyer eyes
- Often sells for less after price reductions
2. Poor Presentation
- Incomplete or low-quality photos
- Unorganized documentation
- Deferred maintenance items
- Poor cleanliness or cosmetic condition
3. Inflexibility
- Unwilling to negotiate
- Rigid on terms or timeline
- Defensive about aircraft condition
- Unrealistic expectations
4. Inadequate Marketing
- Limited exposure to market
- Poor description or specifications
- Failure to highlight key features
- Insufficient outreach to potential buyers
5. Transaction Management Issues
- Slow response to inquiries
- Disorganized documentation
- Failure to address buyer concerns
- Poor communication during process
Why Choose Jecobra Aviation?
When you work with Jecobra Aviation to sell your Phenom 300, you benefit from:
Market Expertise
- Deep knowledge of Phenom 300 market dynamics
- Access to comprehensive transaction data
- Understanding of buyer preferences and priorities
- Strategic pricing guidance
Professional Marketing
- High-quality photography and videography
- Compelling listing descriptions
- Multi-platform marketing exposure
- Targeted outreach to qualified buyers
Qualified Buyer Network
- Established relationships with serious buyers
- Pre-qualified prospects
- International reach
- Active buyer search requests
Transaction Management
- Complete transaction coordination
- Negotiation expertise
- Inspection facilitation
- Closing coordination
Proven Track Record
- Successful Phenom 300 transactions
- Competitive time on market
- Strong sale prices achieved
- Satisfied seller clients
Timeline Expectations
Understanding typical timelines helps set realistic expectations:
Well-Prepared Aircraft
- Listing to Initial Interest: 1-2 weeks
- First Showing: 2-4 weeks
- Accepted Offer: 3-8 weeks
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: 1-2 weeks after offer
- Closing: 2-4 weeks after successful inspection
- Total Timeline: 8-16 weeks typically
Factors Affecting Timeline
- Aircraft condition and equipment
- Pricing competitiveness
- Market conditions
- Seasonal factors
- Seller flexibility
Conclusion
Selling your Phenom 300 successfully requires careful preparation, strategic pricing, professional marketing, and skilled transaction management. While the Phenom 300's strong market position provides a good foundation, maximizing value requires attention to detail and expert guidance.
At Jecobra Aviation, we specialize in representing Phenom 300 sellers through every step of the process. Our expertise, market knowledge, and buyer network ensure your aircraft is positioned properly and sold efficiently at the best possible price.
Ready to discuss selling your Phenom 300? Contact our team today for a complimentary market analysis and consultation.
Contact Jecobra Aviation
- Phone: (830) 362-1150
- Email: info@jecobra.com
- Web: https://jecobra.com
About the Author

Brandon Sapp
Managing Partner
Founder and Managing partner of Jecobra Aviation with 10,000+ hours of flight time and 25 years experience in aircraft sales, acquisitions, management and operations. Brandon brings unparalleled expertise in helping clients navigate complex aircraft transactions.

