Carnifex

Found an 88 FC vert for $1000 runs and everything
The guy who bought it bought it from someone in the military, and before he could get the title, the guy was booted from the military and he has no way of contacting him now. (his story)

He's now selling it with a Bill of sale, and even offered for us to run the vin through the police department and all.

So basically, what would it take to get this car titled?
I live in New Mexico, so i could probably look into the MVD's..
but anyone with experiences like this want to explain it a little better?
like costs, processes ect

Picture of the car..
fe570b6ed012a86ae7caa4333fb4510d.png

misterstyx69

iTrader: (142)

I wouldn't buy it personally,as you never know if the thing can turn out stolen.
But if you don't mind that scenario and can live with it,,even IF the car can't be registered,you could use it for track or part it out and double your money.(that is if you don't mind selling supposed stolen vehicle parts).
It's a situation though that requires some thinking and really it shouldn't be "difficult" to buy a car.
I'd be asking the "owner" to fix the problem,it should have nothing to do with you doing it,as it not really your problem,.It is his.He can't legally sell something that he rightfully does not own.

Tanj!

iTrader: (5)

Go to your local DMV and talk to them. Every state is different. But expect to jump through a bunch of hoops and fees in order to get a title in your name if your state requires titles for cars over 25 years old.

MountainSeven

A lien sale could get it into your name, but it would have to be on your property for 30 days. Or, the current "owner"(the guy who's currently selling it, but is not the registered owner) could go through with the lien, get it into his name, and then he could sell it to you with a title in hand, but then he might want more money for it. Or it could be stolen and he's just bluffing about the police verification, you'll definitely want to look into that if he doesn't want to do a lien sale. Either way, I'd look into this just so you know about it for future vehicles.:

Easy Title Transfer - New Mexico Motor Vehicle Department | MVD Express

Direct from New Mexico's Motor Vehicle Department website:
"If you have a car or other type of vehicle that’s been abandoned on your property for awhile, we understand your frustration. Not only is it an eye sore, but an abandoned vehicle can attract vandals or be used for drug drops, amongst other things. Abandoned vehicles are a serious issue…and we can help! Our customer service agents are ready to assist you with transferring the title into your name so you can sell or dispose of the vehicle.

What is an Abandoned Vehicle?

By New Mexico state law, an abandoned vehicle is any type of motorized transportation that has been left on private or public property for an extended amount of time. After 30 days, a private property owner is allowed to file for an abandoned vehicle lien with any MVD office.

How do I File a Lien to Transfer the Title?

To transfer the title on an abandoned vehicle, you will need to complete the following:
•Obtain an NCIC Clearance from the State Police affirming that the vehicle is not stolen.
•You must fill out a Notice of Lien (Form 10058) and send it to the vehicle’s owner(s), lien holder(s) and any other party involved by certified mail. You must maintain a copy of notices mailed and certified mail receipts. After receiving a Notice of Lien, the registered owner, lien holder or other involved party has 10 days to pay the accrued debt or recover the vehicle.
•If the vehicle is not recovered or the debt is not paid within 10 days of notification, you (the lien claimant) must advertise a public auction for the sale of the vehicle. The date for public auction of an abandoned vehicle varies depending on if the vehicle is registered in New Mexico, registered in another state, or unregistered. There are also specific advertising standards you must meet. Keep copies of all advertisements placed.
•After the public auction of the abandoned vehicle, you must complete an Affidavit of Resale (Form 10059) to summarize and provide documentation for the entire process. If you were able to sell the vehicle at auction, you must complete and submit this form with the purchaser’s name. If you were unable to sell the vehicle at auction, you must indicate this on the Affidavit of Resale. You are then eligible to apply for the title and may register the vehicle. You must have the vehicle titled in your name within 30 days of the public auction if you wish to sell the vehicle without penalty.

Transferring the title of an abandoned vehicle is a time-consuming process that must be followed to the letter. We understand that this can be a bit intimidating and are here to help. If you need to transfer the title of an abandoned vehicle, stop by one of our offices and we’ll gladly answer your questions, provide you with the necessary forms and give you the information you need to successfully re-title an abandoned vehicle. Stop in to any of our locations today or call 505-294-1732 to get the process started!"

Carnifex

yeah, thanks guys. might give it a look but i don't really think it's worth the effort, i mean its got around 140k-160k miles anyways

Evil Aviator

I paid $1,000 for my 1988 convertible that was in about the same shape but it had a valid title. I told the seller that I would give him his asking price if he took it to get a safety inspection sticker, which is a requirement in my area. He complied, I paid him the money for the car, and everything worked out just fine. You could do the same with this seller, and if the car is not stolen or otherwise shady, he should have no problem getting a title in order to sell it for the premium price that he is asking for an undocumented car.

By the way, I can see from the picture that the top is ripped in the usual spot, which will cost you about $1,000 in parts and labor.
Mazda RX-7 1989-92 Complete Convertible Top, With Rainguards

ilveritas

I would suggest not buying. From the sounds of your situation you're either: A) going to pay a service to do the legal gymnastics for you or B) spend more time filling out paperwork, sitting at a DMV than you'll ever want to. If you value your time, step away.

geoffuse

As others have said, really bad idea. No title, just walk away.

Carrie Berdine Wright

Dont buy without a title!! To much hassle.

RVOspeedworks

I bought a car without a title that the previous owner had lost. I called the local Police Dept, had them run the VIN numbver before the sale, then I had the previous owner write a detailed bill of sale and was able to have the BMV order a new title in my name for a nominal fee after a second police inspection stating the vehicle was road worthy/legal. Its worth the hassle if it's a good deal, but at the very least get the VIN number ran before you buy anything.
It's also worth mentioning that although you may be able to part the car out and make some money, no junkyard that I know of will scrap anything along the lines of the body/frame without a title. So once you strip all the goodies you are still stuck with a hunk of steel you can't get rid of.