Overhaulin'

Do you get a car title notarized when you sell to a friend?

Im selling my 2002 honda civic to a mechanic friend for $500. The car is not drivable it needs a new transmission and needs to be towed when picked up. Ive never sold a car before so ive just gone by what he is telling me. Well today we were going to sell and him pick up he has been telling me all i have to do is sign over the title. My friends aunt who is a Notary is saying not to sell until the tittle is notarized freeing me from the car. He got so angry and starting yelling i told him i was not selling the car unless its notarized and he starting saying i will have to pay for it or deduct the amount from the price since its something he doesnt want to do. Im totally over this whole situation. I just dont understand why its that big of a problem why is he so angry..friend or no friend should i go through with this sale..do i really pay for the notary. I kinda feel bullied in a way.. HELP!

Public Comments

1. You can, but I usually don't. The notary seal is generally to protect the buyer, not the seller. If you get the $500 and a signed bill of sale (with 'as is' on it), you shouldn't be too concerned about being 'freed' from the car. You can usually have the bank you keep an account at notarize a title for free.
2. Go to the DMV and fill out a release of liability form. Some states don't even charge you. Your aunt is full of it. That way if he fixes it and gets in a wreck before he transfers the title your not responsible.
3. Your question cannot be answered because you did not tell us what state you are in. Figuring out the answer will be harder unless the state the car is registered in, your state of residence, and the mechanic's state of residence and place of business are all the same state.