HOW TO BUY A CAR FROM A PRIVATE SELLER

Buying a car from a private seller can save you money because you could have a better chance of negotiating than you do with a dealer. Once you've found a car and negotiated your price, call 800.462.8328, ext. 8250 to find out the best way to complete your purchase.


What you'll need*

  • Title
  • Copy of current registration (can’t expire within the next 90 days)
  • Smog certificate (dated within the last 90 days)
  • To pay for sales tax and DMV-related fees (can be financed into the loan)
  • DMV Forms**
    • Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (Reg 262) signed by seller and buyer
    • Statement of Facts (Reg 256) for family transfers
  • For cars with a loan or a lease, additional documents will be needed.
    • 10-day payoff quote
    • Authorization for Payoff form signed by the seller
    • Lease buyout packet (if applicable)

    *Required documents vary based on the car you're buying. Call 800.462.8328, ext. 8250 so we can confirm what you'll need.
    **Forms available at a branch or DMV office.


    How it works

    Over the phone:

    • Apply for an auto loan with us.1
    • Test-drive the car you’re interested in buying and, if possible, have a mechanic look it over.
    • Call us at 800.462.8328, ext. 8250, or email copies of the documents needed to myloan@schoolsfirstfcu.org.
    • We’ll be in contact with you within 2-3 business days after all documents are received to work on the loan.
    • Loan documents will be emailed to you to sign. Please be sure your email address is updated.
    • Receive the check in the mail to give to the seller.

    At a branch:

    • Apply for an auto loan with us.1
    • Test-drive the car you’re interested in buying and, if possible, have a mechanic look it over.
    • Bring the seller into the branch with you, or be sure you bring in all the properly signed DMV forms. Please plan for a longer visit to complete your loan.
    • Sit down with a representative to review and sign your loan documents.
    • Receive the cashier’s check, which will be made out to the seller.


    Things you should know

    • Some purchases may have DMV restrictions that prevent us from helping with the transfer of title.

    If you have questions about buying a car from a private seller or the purchase process, contact us at 800.462.8328, ext. 8250. 

    1. All loans subject to approval.