First, know your payoff—not just your balance.
Contact your lender for the current payoff amount, its validity date and any instructions for a dealership transaction. A payoff can differ from a statement balance because of interest and applicable charges. Share the lender and payoff information with the buying team; do not email account passwords or banking credentials.
Dealer transactions and private sales are different.
FLHSMV states that a Florida vehicle with an existing lien cannot be legally sold in a private sale until the lien is satisfied. It also explains that consumers can trade a vehicle with an existing lien at a dealership, and that a paper title does not need to be requested before trading with a licensed Florida dealer.
A purchase appraisal through this site is reviewed by the dealership team. Lender requirements and title handling must be confirmed for your specific transaction; submitting the form does not authorize a payoff or guarantee a purchase.
Understand positive and negative equity.
If the final agreed vehicle purchase price is more than the verified payoff, there may be an amount remaining for you after applicable transaction adjustments. If the payoff is higher, the shortfall must be addressed before the transaction can be completed. The buying team can explain the required arrangements. This site does not approve financing or promise to erase a balance.
Prepare for the conversation.
Have your VIN, mileage, condition, lender name, a current payoff quote and the names of the registered owners ready. Our appraisal form lets you indicate whether you have a loan. Provide only the information requested—never your Social Security number, bank login or full credit application.
Your next step.
Request an appraisal and tell us about the loan. A participating buying partner can contact you to discuss the vehicle and documentation. You are not required to buy another car.
Source: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: Selling a Vehicle in Florida. Reviewed October 27, 2026.