Whether you are buying or selling a car, there are several tips that will help the process go a lot smoother. Buyers and sellers have one big thing in common - neither wants to be taken for a ride. In order to make sure the sale of an automobile is an honest one, both the buyer and seller are responsible for various activities to help close the deal.

Car Buy/Sell Tip # 1

Know the value. The actual worth of an automobile is one of the most important deciding factors in either buying or selling a vehicle. If you are the seller, you want to receive a fair price for your car. If you are the buyer, you want to pay a fair price. Kelley Blue Book, found online at kbb.com, is a popular website used to help determine a fair value for an automobile based on it's condition, make, model, age, mileage and other features.

Car Buy/Sell Tip # 2

Understand the condition and performance of the automobile. If you are the seller, you must disclose any problems or defects to the potential buyer. As a buyer, you need to have some understanding of how the automobile is supposed to run and other mechanical performances. If you aren't certain, as either a buyer or seller, take the car to a qualified mechanic who can determine an accurate condition for the automobile.

Car Buy/Sell Tip # 3

Whether buying or selling a car, search the classifieds. This is a terrific place to find a car to purchase or to find someone who may be interested in purchasing the car that you have. The classified ad section of a local newspaper is also a terrific way to find a local prospect rather than dealing with someone miles away.

Car Buy/Sell Tip # 4

Be upfront about the deal. If you are selling an automobile, be sure to inform the buyer of your preferred payment method. Many sellers prefer not to accept personal checks or, at the very least, will not transfer the title until the check clears. Most sellers prefer to deal in cash or a money order if dealing directly with the buyer. Buyers should be equally upfront with the seller by informing them of whether or not they intend to purchase, how and when they will be paying for the automobile, etc.

Car Buy/Sell Tip # 5

Make sure the automobile has a clear title. In addition, the buyer should order a CarFax report, which can be found at carfax.com. For a small fee, anyone can learn about the history of an automobile, such as whether or not the vehicle has ever been involved in an accident, a flood or other incident that may affect it's performance. This is one of the best ways for buyers to make sure they are getting an automobile with no hidden background.