Buying a car from an individual

[Paa Langfart]

I haven't bought a car from an individual person ever - always at a dealership.  How do I safely go about making the money for title transfer without getting ripped off ?

[KSpan]

Do they have the title in-hand? 

[Anybodyhome]

If they have the title in hand, simply have them sign it over once the price is agreed upon. The hand them the money.

Realistically, a simple bill of sale stating the make model, agreed price and odometer reading will also be helpful- both parties need to sign.

[cookinbrak]

There has to be a notary present.

[pstall]

Yep. Get it notarized or it will get really choppy.

[Zaximus]

Yeah most banks will have one in the office, give them a call first though.   

[cookinbrak]

No, there has to be a notary present or it's not a legal document.

[Kevin Greene]

LOL, nobody uses a Notary when buying a used car private party.

[Kevin Greene]

Buyer has the cash, seller has the title they hand over. There is generally a notice of sell or transfer the seller will send to the DMV to cover their ass should you get a parking ticket or whatever once you take possession. A bill of sale is sometimes helpful. Or just meet up at your local AAA if either is a member and they'll handle the whole transaction for you.

[cookinbrak]

7 hours ago, Kevin Greene said:

LOL, nobody uses a Notary when buying a used car private party.

LOL, then nobody has the title transferred. Or gets insurance.

[KSpan]

7 minutes ago, cookinbrak said:

LOL, then nobody has the title transferred. Or gets insurance.

Suggest you specify the state you're referring to (I assume NC), as notary is not required for lein-free private sales where I live.

[cookinbrak]

In NC, if you want to legally transfer the title of a car, it has to be notarized or the DMV will reject it. I just assume people buy cars to drive, not use as lawn ornaments.

[Kevin Greene]

9 minutes ago, cookinbrak said:

In NC, if you want to legally transfer the title of a car, it has to be notarized or the DMV will reject it. I just assume people buy cars to drive, not use as lawn ornaments.

My bad, no such peculiar law in Cali. What a PITA

[Paa Langfart]

Thanks for confusing me guys.