I am selling my 2.5 yr old Golf GTi as I am getting a company car. I have advertised it on Pistonheads and have had some early interest from a private dealer based in Coventry (I am in Glasgow). I have read various guidance on how to be protected – basically get a non refundable deposit and don't hand over the keys and V5 until the money is verified as legit and cleared in my account. The safest thing seems to be electronic funds transfer. I am okay with all of that.
This guy, if he is for real, which I am yet to be convinced, is suggesting that he will give me the deposit, and then fly up to Glasgow one day next week, meet me at station/airport, and if he is happy with car, pay me and take car away. I pointed out that I would need the funds cleared etc as above, he says he is fine with that and is suggesting an electronic transfer. He sounds legit, but who knows.
So what I am planning, is to ask him to meet me outside a bank, near to station. I will be with a pal, just incase.. he can look at the car and if we agree a price we go into the bank and he pays money into my account. I am thinking this is best if cash, so that the teller counts it there and then, verifies not forged etc, and once teller confirms all ok I sign off the V5, give him the keys and job done.
Does this sound the safest plan ?
Would he be able to transfer the funds instantly in a branch as opposed to electronic banking in internet, which I am assuming he won't be able to do if standing on the street or in a bank branch ?
I realise this buyer may fade away, but I still need the answers for when I do sell it in the next few weeks
many thanks