Most people know choosing a car is a big decision, full of boring considerations like mileage, insurance and repair costs. That's why it is easy to get swept up in the fun stuff like styles, stereos and sunroofs. But remember, this is much more complicated than choosing your favorite color. For many, money is an issue (if it wasn't would you honestly be reading this?). So, the key word to buying is "compromise." You have to decide what you must have and what you are willing to give up. If you want a truck or SUV, you give up gas mileage. If you pick a small hybrid, don't expect great safety ratings.

There is a whole list of personal decisions you have to consider. Big vs. small; new vs. used; if used, what year and how many miles; which manufacturer; how much is the insurance; how safe is the car; what is the repair record; and – oh yes, the color.

So here is the inside scoop on things to think about to make an informed decision.

• Miles: One of the top 2 determinants of value. The average number of miles traveled per year is 10,000.
• Year: The other top determinant of value. The older a car, the more wear and tear has been put on it. Check cars that are similar in age and miles to get an idea for what a fair price is.
• Gas mileage: You won't see the difference in the up-front cost, but if you're getting 10 miles to the gallon, you'll be hurting when you get to the gas station.
• MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price): Gives you a ballpark figure of a fair asking price. If the car is new and in high demand, expect the number to be higher.
• Manual or automatic: You can get better gas mileage and a cheaper initial cost with a manual transmission. Because it's cheaper, a manual transmission lowers the resale value of your car. Of course, the people who come up with that number have probably never won any street races with that automatic transmission.
• Amenities: This is where the 15" subs, chrome wheels or hydraulics increase the asking price. These are usually value-adds. A $2,000 stereo system in a $2,000 vehicle that won't start the next day doesn't do you a bit of good.

• Make sure paint on the outside of the doors matches the inside.
• Double check that different parts of the car line up with each other.
• Have a mechanic look over the car, the brakes, signs of welding, etc.
• Check to see if the car has an in-state title. Cars with out-of-states titles are red flags.

• Know in advance what you can afford and how much the car is worth.
• Check the blue book value, and check similar cars on the market for comparable prices.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions.
• Put everything you agree to in writing.
• Always be prepared to walk away at any time. The person who can walk away holds the upper hand.

There is no one right way to go about buying a car. Many of the steps are personal and need to be decided on an individual basis. Just remember to do your research. Once that is done, make your offer and stand your ground. If you have done your homework, the seller will see that and be forced to deal with you fairly.