It is very difficult for the average person to have any idea how much their real life story is worth.

If you approach a newspaper or magazine direct they will be able to beat you down on the price, and will almost certainly undervalue your story.

Press agencies know how much your information is worth and can get you the highest prices in the hope you will return to them with more stories.

The agencies get paid separately by the publications for writing stories or putting you in contact with them and should not charge you for their service.

1. Make sure you are happy to sell your real life story.



2. Use a press agency rather than going direct to a publication - you will invariably end up with more money.



3. Ensure you get a contract outlining the exact fee for your real life story with a named publication.



4. Having photographs or film footage to back up your story will make it worth more money.



5. Don't be rushed into selling stories but do be aware that stories can drop in price as interest wanes.



6. Ensure that the publication using your story does not plan to syndicate it to other newspapers or magazines.



7. NEVER sign any contracts that offer you a fee with the terms 'up to' or 'a minimum of' written beside them.



8. If you have a 'big exclusive' or want newspaper, magazine, television and radio coverage use a publicity agent/ publicist.



9. You will get more money for your story if you agree to be named and photographed.



10. Can you prove your story is true?