This post makes me nervous. I just bought a project with no title and bill of sale.It was cheapish. I spoke with my BMV here about getting a title and they explained the process. Hopefully, I can get one somewhat easy otherwise may just cut my losses. I already ran the VIN and it didn't show stolen or salvaged. For your friend he could see what the process is on the car. Every state is going to be different with the process from what I understand.
You did the right thing. You talked to the state. Being overly cautious myself I would wait until I had title in hand before I put lots of time/money into it.
I bought a 66 Charger that didn't run from a business. I bought the car on Friday and the guy said come back Monday he would have the title ready. I figured he is a business so it's legit. I swapped the transmission and radiator and got it running real sweet over the weekend. I went to get the title on Monday and he said he couldn't find it but would give me my money back after I fixed it.
Needless to say his business went under in a couple years, I wonder why.
I ended up getting a registration & bill of sale from New York Title Co, ironically out of Alabama. My state at the time gave me a title without problems.
I found out that title companies usually just do what ordinary people can do with a little time and a conversation with the state.
Always start at the state and follow the laws they have in place.
