What does clear title mean?

[amodoko]

Hi, I'm sorry if I may be asking a question that may have already been answered but I was just wondering what I need to get from a seller when I'm buying a used bike? I've never bought any vehicle or motorcycle yet so I have no idea. I know I need a title and a bill of sale right? Do I need both of these? And if they say it is a "clear title" does that mean no one owns it and payments are still being made on it for ownership? Is it good to buy a bike with a clear title? Any info on these topics will help me greatly (as well as any costs that I will need to incur with the DMV with getting the bike in my name). Thanks guys in advance, I always appreciate your guys' knowledge.

[Gummiente]

And if they say it is a "clear title" does that mean no one owns it and payments are still being made on it for ownership? Is it good to buy a bike with a clear title?

Clear title means that there are NO liens against the vehicle. In other words, it has been fully paid for and is owned by the seller. if it is a used vehicle, clear title also means that there are no outstanding liens or legal problems remaining from any previous owners. So, yes, it is VERY good to buy a bike with a clear title.

[MotoF150]

Mr. Gummiente explained it perfect, NEVER BUY A BIKE WITHOUT A CLEAR TITLE, make sure the guy has the title, hold the title in ur hands and check the VIN number on the bike and on the title and make sure its the same number. Many guys are selling their bikes and they still owe money on it, the bank holds the title untill it paid in full, some guys will tell you if you buy it and give them the money they will give you a bill of sale then they will use that money and pay it off, then he will transfer the title back to you, DON"T DO THAT !!! You can make a deal to take over the payments, call the bank and if approved the bank can do the legal paper work and when the bike is paid off it will be legally yours.

[moto_hanki]

I have taken "clear title" to also mean that it does not have a salvaged or totaled title. Which is also a good things when purchasing a used vehicle. THe bill of sale you will need to carry around with you while you are riding until you get to the dmv to transfer the title and they give you a temporary registration (that's what the deal is in Oregon anyway).

[amodoko]

Awesome, so I won't buy a bike unless it has a clear title. But can a bill of sale just be something that the seller writes up on a peice of paper saying I bought the bike from him for a certain price or does it need to be something more official? Thanks.

[camthepyro]

Yes, a bill of sale with a private seller is pretty informal, just write down costs and VIN number, year, mileage, etc., how much you bought it for, and both of you sign it.

A better way to do it is go to your state's DMV website, and they should have a bill of sale form you can print out, then use that and fill everything out, and make sure both of you sign it.

[amodoko]

Great, that tells me everything I really need to know. I appreciate your guys' help, now all I need is a bike, haha. Thanks again guys.

[Lion_Lady]

Look at the title... usually there is a place ON the original to transfer the title from one person to another. Don't forget to take care of that detail before you take possession.

In MD it is required that the signatures be notarized, and that the selling price be confirmed/notarized as well. Taxes are paid at purchase, so folks are tempted to way UNDER state the selling price to get out of paying the sales tax.

P

[niterider]

Also there is a title application form that the seller has to sign. You can get this form from the title transfer office. Some clerks will do the paper work without the sellers signature on it, but some will have you go back and get the form signed by the seller. In Tx. notorization is no longer requierd. Be sure the title is signed front and back. Good luck.