Most of us trade-in our existing cars when we purchase a new car. This trade-in usually provides the down-payment for the new car. However, some of us will be too focused and excited about the new car that we forget to try to get a good deal out of the trade-in. This 'loss' can be quite substantial depending on circumstances and the condition of your existing car. The following are a few pointers that is helpful to maximize the trade-in deal for you.

Improve the looks of your car by giving it a good cleaning and polish. The exterior look of your car is important as it gives the buyer a reflection of the way you have treated and maintained your car over the years. A car that looks dirty and run-down would probably have engine and other body-part problems too. If you are too lazy to clean your car up yourself, simply send it for a wash and vacuum (a polish would be nice too). This may very well be the most important aspect in terms of getting the best price for your used car.

Since most used car buyers would want a test-drive before actually making the purchase, take the car to your mechanic and fix the obvious problems. A smooth test-drive with minimum distractions would give the buyer a comfortable feel as to the conditon of the car. The most obvious things to do would include:
1. Change the engine oil and spark plugs
2. Fix obvious dents and scratches
3. Oil the common body parts like the doors and the steering wheel

Make the important decisions before you actually go and meet the potential customer. Decide on the lowest price that you will go and any extras that you may be giving to give to your customer. It is important that you are realistic in demanding for a price. Most car owners have a 'bond' with their cars and have an inflated value in their minds. Asking for an unrealistic price will put off the buyer and he may not even want to proceed in negotiation. Remember that there is also a cost related to the time and effort spent in getting customers.

If you are buying your new car from a car-dealer, consider doing the trade-in with the car-dealer itself. This can be used as a bargaining tool when buying a new car as the car salesman would be anxious in closing the deal. Make sure you specify upfront that a good trade-in price is a condition in making a new car purchase. Also, the car-dealer has more leeway in terms of pricing as any 'loss' can be justified and subsidized by the profits in the sale of the new car.

The few things mentioned above may sound obvious and are simple and easy to follow, but they can go a long way in getting you a better price when you sell your used car. Good luck!