When it comes to selling your car, there are some sure-fire ways to ensure you get the best price possible, whether trading it in on a new car or selling it privately. The best way to approach it is to think like a buyer – would you purchase something that was scratched, dirty and had jiggly little problems that will cost money to fix? Looking after your car in the long term is going to be the biggest benefit. If you do get bangs or scrapes, it pays to get it fixed straight away with most car insurance policies covering such events. Maintaining your car is also a key. Make sure your car is serviced regularly and get the mechanic, whether it is during a car service or to fill in the vehicle’s service log book. Proving the vehicle has been cared for will result in a better price.

Fix up small problems

Anything faulty will be pounced on by an eagle-eyed buyer, so don’t give people obvious reasons to try and talk down the price. If you know that a globe is gone on a brake light, replace it. If the tyres are past their use-by date, replace them with some cheapie that are full of tread. Get any oil leaks fixed and make sure the engine is topped up with water, oil and other fluids where appropriate. Don’t ignore the interior either. Fix up windows that don’t wind up properly and if you have a speaker that isn’t working, consider replacing it or have an expert repair it. All these little things can result in buyers legitimately offering a lower price.

Make it sparkle

It goes without saying – a car that’s looks clean and cared for will fetch a better price than one that hasn’t been washed in years. Make the most of all that shopping around for car insurance quotes when you were hunting for the right policy – get any dents, paint scrapes and damage repaired. Consider a professional detail, or clean the car yourself like you’ve never cleaned it before. Wash, wax, use tyre blackener, vacuum every nook and cranny – leave nothing to chance. Make sure you get under the front seats where all kinds of mysterious objects have laid forgotten, and clean out storage bins and the boot. Give the windows and windscreen a good wash too.

Check what it’s really worth

Once you have got the car looking its best, do some research to find out what it is really worth. If trading it in on a new car, a car dealer is going to offer you less than if you sell it privately. There are plenty of guides on the internet to help you make an informed decision about settling on an asking price for both scenarios. Factors that will affect the price you set will include mileage, any modifications or extras, and the general condition of the vehicle.

Be prepared to negotiate

Don’t set a price and steadfastly refuse to budge from that – chances are you will never end up selling. So don’t be scared to do a little deal-making. Both yourself and the buyer will have a figure in mind and the negotiation process is all about finding that middle ground. Stick to your limits though – get it clear in your mind the absolute least you can take for the vehicle and don’t give in.

There are a lot of used autos for sell in today’s market. High unemployment rates have forced owners to sell their cars. But, be careful not to pick a lemon. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on maintenance and repair.

Here are 10 tips to help you make the right decision:

1. Determine how much money you can spend, either in cash or in monthly loan payments. Don’t forget to figure in the costs for owning a car such as insurance and maintenance.

2. Research the models that you are considering to buy. Car information websites will provide you information on the long-term reliability and performance of the various autos.

3. To find a used vehicle that you may be interested in, check out used car lots, classified ads, auto dealerships that sell pre-owned vehicles, and used motor vehicle publications and websites.

4. Ask the seller about the general condition of the vehicle, including mileage, if there are extra feature, and if a service record has been maintained. If you are considering to buy from an individual, ask if they are the original owner and why they are selling.

5. Inspect and test drive it. You want to make sure that it performs well, runs smoothly, and feels right to you. Don’t let the seller rush you through the test drive.

6. Find out if a warranty is included, what type it is, and how long it will last. If a warranty is not included, let a mechanic do a thorough inspection. Let the seller know that the sale is contingent upon that inspection.

7. If buying online, get a vehicle history report from the company selling it online. Try to find out if the vehicle has been damaged before and if the odometer’s mileage may have been rolled back.

8. Find out how much the car is worth by checking online used auto guides or visiting the library. These guides usually give you a minimum and maximum value.

9. Negotiate the price. Using the estimated values that you obtained in step 8, start on the low end. Don’t be afraid to walk away. If you are trading in your car or having a dealership arrange financing, negotiate the price first. This assures you that you are getting the best deal.

10. Close the deal. If your buying from an individual, make sure you get the title. Register your vehicle with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. Most dealerships will handle most of this paperwork for you – just make sure that you read all contracts and paperwork carefully.

Now, just drive home in your new sharp auto.