The next time you're in the market for a new car, it's worth considering one that's only "new" to you. More drivers are picking a used car for their new ride, with sales in the third quarter of 2016 up 3.3 percent year over year, according to Edmunds.com. The average used car value is up, too, to $19,232 — thanks to more almost-new cars on the market. "Used is always, financially, the best thing to do," said Ron Montoya, senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com. "You're avoiding that steep depreciation that takes place on a new car." What's a fair price? Don't expect an easy apples-to-apples price comparison.

"At any one point, a used car is an individual animal, versus a new car, which is more of a commodity," said Jack Nerad, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book. More from Your Money Your Future:

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Even on the same make and model year, used-car values vary based on the features, mileage, condition and local demand. Look to pricing sites and apps like Edmunds.com, Kelley Blue Book and others to get an estimate. Asking prices are usually lower when you buy from an individual than through a dealership. Sellers may be more open to negotiating, too. "Dealerships have to make some money on the car, so they're going to mark it up a good percentage," Montoya said.