Automobile owners wishing to sell their vehicle with an existing lien (auto loan) may do so at any time during the time of the loan. Considerations for before sale are time left to full amortization of the loan, resale value to a private party or resale value to a public dealership, cost of readying the vehicle for sale, cost of selling the vehicle, time frame for sale, and cost and time for paying the remaining loan balance and transferring the title to the buyer.
Ascertain the value of the vehicle relative to sale to a private individual or to a public dealership. Private party value is normally higher than sale to a public auto dealer. Factors that determine a car's value are year, mileage, wear and tear and overall condition.
Request a payoff statement from the lender. Contact the lien holder (for example, the bank or financial institution that services the loan) and request a payoff statement. A payoff statement will include unpaid principle balance and interest; there may be a penalty for early payoff.
Draft a contract for sale, otherwise known as a bill of sale. Include a description of the vehicle, VIN and the purchase price and any "promises" that might be included (for example, repair of minor damage or replacement of parts). Also include estimated dates for loan payoff and receipt of title from the lien holder, along with an estimated date of title transfer. Review the bill of sale with the buyer and have it notarized.
Deposit the funds from the buyer with the lender and allow time for the funds to clear. Transfer the title to the buyer after the funds have been accepted by the lien holder and confirmation of same is given; cancel the insurance thereafter.
