I found a used car I like on craigslist that I think I want. My main concern is the actual purchase. What steps do I need to take to make sure its all done legally and that he doesnt take of with the money or anything like that. Ive only bought cars at dealerships.

 

You give him money and he gives you a title, along with keys.

 

All at the same time.

 

If the guy has a brain in his head he will also probably ask you to sign a waiver indicating you are buying the car "as is" with no express or implied warranty of any kind. Pretty routine stuff, unless the vehicle is still under some kind of factory coverage.

 

First thing to do is drive it and if you like it then you ask to see the title. Check the title for any leins,salvage title etc.. make sure it is a clear title. Then talk him/her down a bit more and seal the deal with money and you get the title in hand then the money goes to him/her.

If he/she is not being honest then now is the time to put a azz whippin and leave.

 

If you do a Google search for transferring a title in Texas, you'll find that the seller is suppose to take the license plates off of the vehicle and turn them in. This insures that the buyer actually transfers title. I'd suggest going to the closest tax office and trade money for title AT the teller window. That way you get new plates and have a receipt for title in yer hands when you leave. If there are any issues about the title of car, the tax office won't transfer the title and you won't be out any money. You'll also need an insurance binder from your insurance company to transfer title and get new plates. Make sure to call your insurance agent with the VIN and details of the car BEFORE going to the tax office. I just sold my girls car about 2 months ago and this is what I ran into.

 

I normally run some sort of carfax or something. Then I take at least three copies of whatever Bill of Sale forms my state likes to use (From DMV or a generic if they have no preference). Then when I get there I see if the VIN number he/she gave me to run the Carfax matches the Title and matches the Car. Then I see if the name on the title matches the he/she selling it to me. And the address matches the DL or the Seller and the Address on Title (can be legitimate reasons why it might not)... And see if it is clean and proper title.

Then I fill out all three of the BOS's and make sure he/she signs the right place on title. And I give him/her one copy and take two with me plus I take the signed away title.