What papers do you need when buying a pre owned car from an individual?

Question

im buying a pre owned car. the person selling shows the registration paper of the car. however it is not his name but his "aunt's" name. he said that we only need a pre signed deed of sale. is it true? or we need a special power of attorney from the registered owner to sell the car?

hope someone could help me.

Thanks.

Answer 1

If it is "presigned", make sure it is notarized. Anyone can sign someone elses name on a title. I would want to deal with the Aunt.

Answer 2

Posting the state you are in will help answer your question, but here goes. As they said above you will need the

1. Title......completed and signed in the correct spot by all owners listed on the front of the title. Exactly as listed, meaning use any middle name or initial shown on the front in the signature on the back.

2. Bill of Sale .....listing VIN, sale date, and purchase price signed by the owner/owners and you.

3. A Lein Release if the vehicle is financed..... if there is a lien shown on the front of the title. Some states will accept the lien being released by a banks signature on the front of title, others will want a seperate page.

In many states all must be notorized. If you don't know about your state call the tax office and ask or just do it. It will never be an issue if it has been done and not needed.

You will only need a power of attorney if the aunt and anyone else thats on the title can't sign it. Dealing with the aunt is best unless you know and trust the other person.

Answer 3

The seller must have

(1) title

(2) bill of sale

(3) power of attorney if the title is NOT in their name.

Accept no excuse.

===

The title = certificate of ownership.  

No title = no ownership.  

If the title is NOT in their name, it may not be their car to sell.

Good Luck...

Answer 4

his aunt will need to give you a bill of sale (notarized in many states) along with the title of the car showing that there are no liens or loans against it. you will need to take them to the motor vehicle office and pay the sales tax (most states) on it to get it registered in your name.