Projected value of well maintained MBP by next cycle

[phylumook]

Hello I've recently purchased the maxed out store model of the 2011 MBP 15 inch (basically high res and 2.3GHz). I'm interested in keeping it in the best condition as possible so I may sell it near the end of the cycle to purchase the next refresh while paying as small difference as possible (hopefully no more then $400) however I really cannot imagine the real numbers.

I believe there is a population out there who does this, any insight or ideas on the matter? Specifically what you believe is possible to get back from a $2750 investment
(also note I plan to get a SSD when prices come down, as well as an additional 4gigs of RAM)

speculate.

and thank you as always!

 

[HBOC]

it really depends on how fast the processor speeds and GPU advances. Let's say next year the increases are only mild (like Quad 2.5 GHZ and same GPU or slightly higher) and perhaps makes the machine 5% faster, it would be safe to say the resale would be pretty good.

Now if the updates are radical (from 2010 to 2011 machine radical), resale will take a hit, as many people will cry and return their machines 2 months later and thus flooding the refurb store..

So in closing, no one really knows. I would say probably good resale for 18-24 months.

 

[2Turbo]

I'm very interested in this as well. I want to sell my mbp before every refresh.

 

[NikFinn]

There's a new refresh about what? Once a year? It's about the same cost to sell the MBP that's on the way out and buy the new one as it is to buy applecare for the old one.

 

[alphaod]

60-70% if you're looking to sell quickly; 65-75% if you are patient.

It's a loss if you're wondering.

 

[jenzjen]

There are a few threads about this, but to summarize, if you're flipping every refresh, you should always buy the least expensive SKU in your desired screen size and as close to base stock as possible. Your goal in the sale is not to maximize proceeds but to minimize losses.