Tips on Buying Cars: Out-of-state car purchase, ford motor credit, ford motor

Question
I am interested in purchasing a truck from a private seller in Ohio.  I live in South Carolina.  My son who lives in Ohio has already checked out the truck.  The seller has a loan that has to be paid off from Ford Motor Credit.  I have contacted the credit company and they have said that 1) he can inform them that he is selling the truck and 2) that I am going to be sending the credit company a check to pay off the balance owed.  It is my understanding that once the payoff is processed, the company will issue him the title that he will then sign over to me.  

My question has to do with protecting myself in this transaction.  I would like to take possession of the truck once the credit company has possession of my check.  I would then owe the seller the remainder of the purchase price based upon him sending me the title.  Does all of this make sense or is there another way to complete the transaction, protecting both of our interest?

Answer
Les,

Thanks for your question.  If your seller will agree to those terms, then yes, I would organize it that way.  Make sure that you have everything documented and signed by both parties in what is called a bill of sale, outlining all of the details.

Hope this helps.

Thanks - JB