How do I apply for a lost title for a jet ski?

Question

I am about to buy a jet ski from someone who has now moved to another state. Can she send me a notarized bill of sale so that I can then apply for the lost title myself?

Answer 1

Yes.  If she can send you a bill of sale then you can apply for a lost title.  If the DMV runs the VIN they will discover the last owner and ask for a bill of sale from her to you.  Should be easy.

www.jamminjetskis.com

Answer 2

DO NOT PURCHASE THE JET SKI.  Let me say that again.  DO NOT PURCHASE THE JET SKI!!!!!!!  Only the current owner can apply for a lost title.  Only the current owner can reassign the title to the buyer by singing it on the front and the back.    A lost title replace an existing document without any changes to it.  You have no way of  knowing if there is a lien holder (bank) holding this title.  You have no way of knowing that this is not stolen property without a title in hand.  When you purchase titled property, money goes into the hands of the seller or lien holder and you receive the title.  That is the only way to do it and there is absolutely no wiggle room on this issue.  If you do purchase this without a title from the owner, you will need to apply for a bonded title.  Just as the name implies, you will need to secure a bond in addition to any transfer fees or taxes.

You can have all the documentation in the world to prove you bought this jet ski but without the title, the current owner simply needs to apply for a lost title and report that you stole the jet ski.  Possession is 9/10 of ownership.  Having the title in hand gives the current owner 9/10 of possession without physically having the jet ski.  The burden of proof that you did not steal the jet ski will be yours.