In today's market, the dealers will give you low BB, completely ignoring your upgrades. There are alot of CPO X5's sitting in the BMW lots here in L.A. - they have not been moving since gas prices climbed over $3.00. But if you trade it in, you might be able to make it up on whatever vehicle you purchase.

You could get a better deal selling private party, but it could take a long time to find a buyer. It is also a hassle to advertise and show the car.

If you go the dealer/trade-in route, part out everything, even the AE's and RB's if you have the OEM parts. You'll get nothing for these from the dealer. I went through this same exercise when I traded in my 540i which had Dinan Stage 2 + M5 body kit and ACS wheels (which I kept and sold).

Post some pics Eric. Let's check it out.