Posted a sale of 89 SI on craigslist. 135k, nearly one owner, all the receipts since 1989, expensive repair done (time belt, new radiator, front shocks, new tires). Good condition in/out. Asking $1300.

An interested buyer 700 miles away offered $1500 cash. I called him and chatted for 15 mins. He is willing to offer more ($1500) to 'book' the car. He will spend $300 to fly in; $100 to drive back. He said $1900 for this car is worthwhile. He likes 88 - 89 trim because 90 or after the body frame changed. He could not find a 88-89 civic car in Seattle that has the clean title. I asked this and that to see if he is genuine. He sounds so.

Worst goes worst. He takes the car with $1500. Does not transfer the title; use for criminal activity in Seattle. I will be on the hook; he can get away from the police by merely paying $1500.


Should I go ahead with this deal?

 

As long as you have a bill of sale proving you sold it... even if he doesn't transfer the title, you have some bit of evidence...

 

Legally you cover yourself by notifying your DMV that you have sold the car. This lets you cancel your insurance and turn in the license plates.

Also talk is cheap, whenever selling a car-- even for cheap-- lots of people say they want it but very few will actually arrive with the cash in hand.

 

Many Motor Vehicle Depts have "Bill of Sales" in paper you can fill out. His Name & Address etc. In Arizona you just go online & report it to the MVD they ask the name & address of buyer.
Now if he shows up & won't give you that info or let you see his drivers license then send him down the road kicking a can. If he is wanting it so badly tell him to send you half down as a deposit non refundable through PayPal, Cashiers Check, or Wire Transfer. In the case of the Wire Transfer have his bank call you for routing numbers etc. Don't give him that info.