Confirm the lienholder and request a payoff quote
Ask the lender for the exact payoff amount, its valid-through date, accepted payment method, and title-release process. A payoff quote can include daily interest or fees that are not shown in the principal balance on a monthly statement.
Compare the dealer offer with the payoff
Subtract the payoff from the verified purchase offer. If the result is positive, ask when and how the remaining equity will be paid to you. If the result is negative, the shortfall must be resolved before the lender can release its interest in the vehicle.
Plan for negative equity before accepting
If you owe more than the vehicle offer, ask the lender and dealer which payment arrangements they accept. You may need to pay the difference. If another vehicle purchase is involved, evaluate any proposal to add the shortfall to new financing separately because it increases the new balance and borrowing cost.
Get the payment and handoff sequence in writing
Confirm who sends the payoff, where the final inspection occurs, when the dealer takes possession, how any seller equity is paid, and what happens if the verified vehicle differs from the listing. Procedures vary by lender and dealership.
Confirm title release and Washington seller reporting
Ask whether the title record is electronic or paper and who will receive the released title. Remove your license plates at handoff and confirm the Washington Vehicle Report of Sale was filed, even if the purchasing dealer submits it for you.
Keep a complete transaction file
Retain the payoff quote, purchase agreement, lender-payment confirmation, proof of any shortfall or equity payment, odometer record, title-release information, and Report of Sale confirmation. Do not rely on an informal promise that the lien was paid.