Do you realize the percentage of scammers on Craigslist? You may not be dealing the the person you think. If you can look up an owner on assessors' lists, so can he.
How many people do you think already gave him money and he didn't change the deed?
Even if he has the same name how do you know it is him? Did you check his ID or anything or just beleive he was John Smith? Even if he is John Smith it could be a different person wtih same name.
Was he called Prince Umpa Umpa Stickitupyourjumper?
There is no way in hell I would do this without a title company or a very good real estate attorney. I want a complete title search to find out about any liens or encumbrances. I want insurance so if a utility company comes knocking on my door in 6 months, I am not liable.
Craigslist, $5000, land? Really? Youd better get some professional help on this or this reeks of burn.
This is where you get real estate lawyers involved, if not a realtor. You want to ensure everything is on the up and up, even with a small lot.
you must insist on a title company of YOUR choice. most likely he'll agree but you'll never see him again.
I'm buying a small comerical lot valued at $5000 from a guy on Craigslist. His name matches with whats on the tax assessors websit as the owner. I've never bought anything without a title company and he wants to use a deed of trust transfering the deed over to me. Is there anything I should do before I pay him $5000? How do I protect myself? Is there a general contract I should use that I can find online?
