realistic non geeky solutions for california smog chk

I've seen plenty of people sell cars that need work, usually noted on the sale ads with the words "as-is" or "mechanics special" and will note in the ad that car won't pass smog. That or drive it until registration is due, then register it non-operational (non-op) for the lower amount, and sell it noting it's on non-op. You'll still make some money from it, and people will know what they are getting/know that work needs to be done.

Selling it out of state, might get you the most money out of it though, since there are some states that don't have smog checks, and the rest they can put whatever cat they want on it.