What are the assumptions for this comparison?

Trade-in tax credit varies by state; set your tax rate accordingly and verify local rules. Private-sale fees include listing, inspection, and basic prep costs (adjust as needed). Payoff used for both scenarios to compute equity; timing can affect per-diem interest.

When does a trade-in make more sense than private sale?

Trade-ins typically make more sense when you have a high tax rate (maximizing the tax credit), when private sale prices are low in your area, or when you want the convenience of a one-stop transaction. Private sales often yield more money but require more effort and time.

Trade-In vs Private Sale Calculator

Compare trade-in vs private sale

New Vehicle Price ($)

Down Payment ($)

APR (%)

Loan Term (Years)

Sales Tax Rate (%)

Doc/DMV Fees ($)

Trade-In Value ($)

Trade-In Payoff ($)

Private Sale Price ($)

Private Sale Fees ($)

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Trade-In vs Private-Party Net

Model tax credit from trade-in vs private-sale proceeds after fees and payoff.

What this compares

We model the trade-in path with a tax credit (in regions where applicable) versus selling the car privately and applying the net cash to your down payment. We compare monthly payment and total of payments, and flag any extra cash you might need if private-sale proceeds wonâ€™t fully cover the payoff after fees.

Assumptions

Trade-in tax credit varies by state; set your tax rate accordingly and verify local rules.
Private-sale fees include listing, inspection, and basic prep costs (adjust as needed).
Payoff used for both scenarios to compute equity; timing can affect per-diem interest.

Trade-In vs Private Sale Calculator

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Trade-In vs Private-Party Net

What this compares

Assumptions

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