Buying from a remote seller

[jeagles]

I am buying a boat from a seller in California. Boat is here in Seattle area. I have inspected boat (at a marina here). How do I get payment to seller and ensure that he has title to the boat and that he signs the title over to me? Do we need a lawyer or broker to act as a middle man?
Any suggestions?
Jim

 

[JoeWhite]

Just as when you buy a house - there are title insurance companies that will provide this service for about $ 250.00. They will make sure that the seller has the clear title and will have the owner sign the registration papers over to you and they will take your money and sent it to them and complete the transaction. They are a neutral party acting like a judge. To find these companies - just fo to a boat broker and find out who they use.

 

[Kordie]

Good advice.

I am buying some second hand gear from the east coast.

Is there some service where I can pay for the goods (several grand) and be assured the ad was real and the goods exist and are sent to my agent on the west coast?

Cheers

Simon

 

[Ross]

Go to a bank that has offices in both states and ask about their escrow services. In some states all real estate transactions are done in escrow with the buyer and seller are represented by a third party whose only interest is to make sure both parties are getting what has been promiced.

 

[Alex Dare]

Just Google Yacht Documentation Companies. They're basically the boat equivalent of title companies in real estate. If you find one that works in the state were you're buying and going to use the boat, they may also be able to file the state registration paperwork for you as well.

 

[Dantodd]

You can use Escrow.com they are a legit company and they'll hold the money until you confirm receipt of goods. I've us them on relatively large transactions in the past.

 

[jeagles]

Thanks Joe, Dan et all...great help