Is my loan payoff amount the same as my remaining balance?

Not always. Your remaining balance is the principal you owe as of your last statement, while the payoff amount includes interest that has built up since then and sometimes fees, calculated to a specific date. That's why a payoff quote is usually a little higher than your balance and expires after several days. When trading in or selling, always use the official payoff amount from your lender so your equity estimate and the dealer's paperwork match.