Buying a car from someone who still owes on money on...

[regis v]

...their loan? I may be buying a car from a private owner soon. However, the person i am buying the car from still owes money on their loan. He will be using the money i am giving him to pay off most of his loan, and then he will be paying the rest out of his pocket. My issue is, i do not know this guy, and do not feel comfortable giving him a cashiers check for such a large amount, and not getting a title in return. He could technically go back and report the vehicle stolen after he gets the money. Other than going directly through his bank (probally wont be possible as he is in the military and is out of state) how can i protect myself in this case?

[trappperg]

If you don't feel comfortable with it, then don't do it. Trust your gut.

[Kyle M]

You are correct in thinking that you can not take the title without all leans being paid off first.I would recommend you make him take care of the leans FIRST. This is of course the safest course of action.The other option is you go to the financial institution that holds the lean with him and pay off the lean yourself giving him any remaining moneys to complete the purchase. That way you have a clean title in your hands when you leave the building.Edit: (read the out of state part)Use your or his bank as a mediary to verify and transfer funds accordingly.