How to Sell Your Car

Thinking about selling your car for quick cash? Whether you’re planning to buy a new vehicle or just need emergency money, there are a few ways to turn your car into cash. You can either sell it outright or explore a car title loan if you want to keep your vehicle.

This guide explains how to sell your car or use its value through a Texas title loan from Texas Car Title and Payday Loan Services, Inc.

texas title loans documentation folder and car key onto top of it on desk

Option 1: Trade It In at a Dealership

Trading in your car, truck or SUV at the dealership may be the easiest way to sell or cash in on your currently owned vehicle, but will it get you more cash then selling it privately? Probably not. Let’s face it, dealerships are in business to make a profit. It may seem like you are getting the most for your vehicle, but most likely it’s the dealership that is coming out on top. Understanding the ins and outs of selling a car, is the best way to make the most profit.

There are a couple of options when deciding where to sell your vehicle. A dealership may be the most common and convenient way to speed up the process, but you can also sell it privately.

Option 2: Sell to a Private Buyer

While selling your owned vehicle to a private buyer may be more rewarding financially, it can also be more time consuming than more common methods. Aside from advertising your vehicle and waiting for a serious response, you should also be prepared to answer calls and schedule test drives for interested buyers.

Selling your car privately may not be the easiest way to make extra cash, but it can certainly provide more cash than a trade-in. A private buyer is looking to invest in buying a vehicle to drive, unlike a dealership that is looking to make money on the resale of your car, so a private buyer is typically willing to pay more for a reliable vehicle.

Tip: Always meet in safe public places and confirm payment before signing over the title. 

woman sign Texas car title loan agreement after man inspected car

Option 3: Keep the Car and Get a Title Loan Instead

If you need money fast but still want to keep your car, a title loan may be the right option. With a car title loan, you use your vehicle’s title as collateral and get a cash loan—without giving up your car.

At Texas Car Title and Payday Loan Services, Inc., you can:

  • Apply online or in-store
  • Get up to $15,000 (based on your vehicle)
  • Keep driving your car while repaying the loan

Learn how title loans work here

What You Need to Sell or Trade a Car

Whether selling privately or to a dealer, make sure you have these documents ready:

  • Your vehicle title (must be in your name)
  • Maintenance records
  • Proof of ownership
  • Valid ID

Before transferring the title, make sure you've received full payment and signed the necessary documents to protect yourself legally.

Apply for a Title Loan in Texas Today

Selling a car isn’t your only option for getting quick cash. With a Texas title loan, you can borrow money based on your vehicle's value and still keep driving it.

Ready to get started?

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.

Emma Frost

Emma Frost is a lifestyle and finance blogger with a talent for communication and a passion for financial literacy. She uses her writing talents to explore topics that help her readers gain financial stability and growth.