Buying out of state from a private seller
 

Hey guys,

What is the preferred method of buying a car out of state? I'm thinking eBay/PayPal but they'll take a chunk from the buyer. If I send over any money without having the car and title, I'm worried they just sell it to someone else local! Or if I say I'll come and give you a cashiers check, whats to stop them from selling it local and then I'm stuck in a state without anything.

Buyer/Sellers, what have you done in the past where both parties felt secure with the transaction?

Nothing, you're screwed, leave a deposit, fly over

Make sure you buy a round trip ticket. I bought my car from a dealer out of state, and I bought a one way ticket. If I had a return flight home, I'd have told them to refund my deposit and keep the car since they were idiots. Don't paint yourself into a corner by not having a flight home.

Well the seller should cover their end with the proper amount to cover any fees. If they dont leave themselves room shame on them.

I have sold 3 motorcycles on ebay, 1 car, and currently have my Z listed. I have also purchased 1 car on eBay, and 1 car out of state. It is very easy if both parties have decent to good communication. You have many options the best IMO would be to get a loan for some amount so your bank goes after the title. It also helps if they still have a balance owed.

I do not know if you have a relationship with you bank manager, or a loan officer, but I usually take her the info on the car or motorcycle, the contacts she needs, then she does all the leg work.

If you have any questions shoot me a PM I will help out anyway I can.

So it seems buying a round trip ticket and hoping the seller doesn't screw me over is the best method. Unless they agree to eBay. Can banks act as escrow?