Selling your car in Virginia might seem like a big task, but with the right information, the process is simple and straightforward. Whether you’re in Richmond, Virginia Beach, or the Blue Ridge Mountains, this step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know, from title transfers to getting the best offer.
Sell My Car in Virginia: 5 Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before listing your vehicle or getting an offer, make sure you have the following ready:
- Virginia Certificate of Title: This proves ownership. If there’s a lien, you’ll need a lien release from your lender.
- Valid Government-Issued ID: A Virginia driver’s license or state ID is typically used during the title transfer process.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old, recorded on the title or a separate federal form.
- Bill of Sale (Optional): The Virginia DMV does not require this, but it is highly recommended for both parties.
- Vehicle History Report (Optional): Though not mandatory, having a report may help you justify your asking price if selling privately.
Virginia DMV Forms You May Need
When selling your vehicle in Virginia, most of the paperwork is handled using the title itself. However, in certain cases, you may need to fill out additional DMV forms:
- Form VSA 17A – Application for Title and Registration (used by the buyer to retitle the vehicle)
- Form VSA 66 – Power of Attorney (used if someone else is handling the sale on your behalf)
- Form VSA 70 – Affidavit of Vehicle Purchase Price (helps determine sales tax if sold below market value)
You can find all forms and resources on the Virginia DMV website.
Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle for Sale
If your car is clean and well-maintained, you may get a higher offer. But if you don’t have time to clean or repair it, don’t worry, we buy vehicles in any condition.
At Ken Ganley Buying Center, we make the process simple. Whether your vehicle is spotless or hasn’t been driven in months, we’ll still give you a real offer with no pressure and no need for prep work.
Step 3: Determine Your Car’s Value
Knowing what your car is worth gives you a better shot at a fair deal. Try these tools:
- Free Online Appraisal Tool: Get an instant offer in less than 2 minutes. No obligation.
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB): A go-to resource for resale values based on condition and mileage.
- Edmunds: Great for comparing prices and depreciation based on market trends.
You’ll want to consider what cars like yours are going for in Virginia Beach, Arlington, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Roanoke; values can vary based on demand in each region.
Step 4: Pick the Best Way to Sell
Each method of selling has pros and cons. Here’s how they stack up:
- Sell to a Car Buying Center (Fast & Hassle-Free): We handle all the DMV paperwork and offer same-day payment. No listings, no strangers, and no risk.
- Trade-In at a Dealership: It may be convenient if you’re buying a new car, but dealerships often offer less unless you’re trading up.
- Private Sale: Involves more time and responsibility. You’ll have to list the car, meet buyers, and complete DMV paperwork yourself. It also carries more risk with payment methods and potential fraud.
If time, safety, and simplicity matter, selling directly to us is your best option.
Step 5: Get Paid
At Ken Ganley Buying Center, we offer secure and fast payment options. You won’t have to worry about personal checks, sketchy apps, or bounced payments.
Professionals handle everything, from the title transfer to final payout, so you get peace of mind and cash in hand the same day.
What Affects Car Values in Virginia? Local Market Insights to Know
Car demand in Virginia can vary by city and season. In urban areas like Arlington or Alexandria, hybrid and electric vehicles tend to hold more value, especially with commuters looking for fuel-efficient options. In contrast, trucks and SUVs are more popular in rural or mountainous areas like Lynchburg or Winchester.
Virginia’s diverse geography, from coastal cities to farmland and hills, means preferences shift, and so does pricing. Listing location, mileage, weather, and even time of year (convertibles in summer, AWD vehicles in winter) can all play a role.
Ready to Sell Your Car in Virginia?
You can skip the stress and uncertainty of private sales. Ken Ganley Buying Center gives you an honest, instant offer with no obligations, no games, and no waiting around.
Get your free online appraisal now or call us at 330-427-3656 to get started.
We make selling your car easy, fast, and transparent — anywhere in Virginia.
Need help selling your car in Virginia? Here are some quick answers
Do I need to notarize my car title in Virginia?
No, notarization is not required. You simply need to sign the title and give it to the buyer. However, all signatures must be accurate and match the names on the title.
Do I keep the license plates when I sell a car in Virginia?
Yes. In Virginia, the plates stay with the seller. You can return them to the DMV, transfer them to another vehicle, or cancel them online.
Can I sell my car without a title in Virginia?
No. You’ll need to request a duplicate title from the Virginia DMV before you can legally sell the vehicle.
Do I need a bill of sale in Virginia?
It’s not legally required for private sales, but it’s highly recommended to protect both buyer and seller.
Who pays the sales tax when a car is sold?
The buyer is responsible for paying any applicable taxes and registration fees when they title the car in their name.