Enter the VIN here to see if it's been reported stolen or salvaged.

https://www.nicb.org/vincheck

Depending on the state you're in, tow companies usually have a process to tow it, put a lien on it, then sell it at auction. The paperwork you get from the auction can then be used to get a title. The tow company might not actually "tow" or "auction" it either.

Best is if the seller can get a title. Otherwise it had better be cheap.

edit: The Vermont loophole has now been closed, so that won't work.