Hi All,

if the deal smells funny it is funny.  My bank gave ME the cash/loan to buy
a used car.  It was in the form of a certified (cashiers?) cheque made out
to the seller. No problem for either of us, I drove away after I paid for
the car. I've never heard of a bank doing otherwise until now.  No way
would I ask or expect a seller to provide title without the cash being in
my hand/bank first. I once took a personal cheque for a loaf, $4800.  Very
reluctantly, and only because the sellers bank was 2 minutes from me and I
was able to pay $6 and have the $4800 cheque 'certified' right on the spot,
so I could then get it to my bank and put up with the usual banking delays
with confidence that the money would still be there. Don't know if many
banks do this, I was lucky.

I also remove the plates and let DMV know IN WRITING immediately that I am
no longer responsible for the vehicle. In this area you are responsible for
any damage the car does as long as it is in your name, with or without
plates. Letting someone drive home on your insurance is also potential for
nightmare troubles, so don't be kind.

bye, Tim