Yes because in the end it would cost me more to return it to stock than to just leave it how it is. I do not have the original exhaust. The reason I took it off was because the DPF cracked so it was shot and I scrapped it. Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I'm under the impression that I do not have to get the emissions fixed if I don't want to.
I can tell you, with a NORMAL car in California, someone who removes emission equipment has to replace it before they can sell it. And there is no limit to what it costs, the SELLER must replace it and prove the car meets emission requirements BEFORE the car can be sold.
Any California buyer would be nuts to touch your car. Other states may be different. But why would anyone want to take the chance with a DieselGate car? They are going to get a VERY hard look at for emissions, even after they are fixed.
Your best bet is to sell the car to VW and hope for the best. You likely will be OK, IMHO.