They are so widespread, they’re even starting to show up on television. We’re talking those “cash for gold” operations, asking you to send old no-longer-wanted pieces of jewelry or anything else with gold in it, in exchange for a quick payment.

It has permeated the mainstream media, including a story by the Associated Press on Oct. 21, 2008 titled “At pawn shops, the cash-strapped trade in memories.” It goes beyond pawn shops, explaining how more people are trading in their gold to deal with the challenging economic times.

Why just settle for gold? You might have a goldmine sitting right under you – a used car. Businesses offering cash for used cars have been around for years, and many have become sophisticated with websites and services such as quick appraisals and cash on the spot.

Worried that if you sell a used car that you would just have to spend the money on another, because you need a vehicle for work or school? Well, many people are downsizing, such as to a smaller more fuel efficient car. You might just be able to swap cars and end up with some cash in your pocket. Cash for used cars doesn’t always mean parting with owning a vehicle in its entirety.

Economic Demands and Cash for Used Cars

Rising prices for gold have allowed services such as Cash for Gold USA, an Internet site offering customers a check if they mail in pieces of gold, to grow and thrive. People can send in anything, from class rings to dental fillings.

Add to that the recessionary economy, and people are turning to such services to meet their personal cash demands.

Same can go with cars. During the economic boom a few years ago, many households purchased an extra car, maybe for commuting, maybe for a growing child.

With today’s sluggish new-car market, you might be amazed at deals car dealerships or car-sales organizations will offer. Cash for a used car might be easier than you think.

Numerous media articles in October 2008 indicated used car sales are up as new car sales have slid the entire year. People are just going for better prices, even if it means buying a used car.

“We’re doing very well with used car sales,” one dealership general manager told the Houston Chronicle on Oct. 19.

 Expanding Market Bolsters Cash for Used Cars Market

What’s this mean for someone who needs cash for used cars, and fast? It means there is a demand. Demand means more potential buyers for your used vehicle. The more demand, the better the price you can set.

This is especially true if you have a newer model, or a car that’s highly desirable, such as any Toyota used car, or a Ford Mustang. People want reliable or even sexy cars, even if it means used.

And the thing about cash for used cars compared with cash for gold is you’re probably going to get more overall for a used vehicle. Unless, of course, you’ve stashed a ton of jewelry at your house over the years.

Plus, a spouse may balk at parting with family heirlooms, or even old earrings. Not so much if it’s dealing with an old jalopy parked out front.