If the seller has clear title, and it can be verified, it may not be necessary. But buying from out of town without actually being there, I don't know about that. Normally, a state issues a title and only releases the lien on said title when the asset is paid in full. That clear title is a state provided document. You want a bill of sale and a "real" title on the boat and the trailer (2 documents). MN will require them to reissue title in MN. If your talking to the seller, what will your lender want...if you have a lender? Without it, I might consider having a vehicle title search company check the boat and trailer VIN to be sure it is paid for and owned by the seller. You will also need his tax receipts more than likely. And, you will have to apply for the Yamaha YES warranty if it has it. But there are documents he needs to check with them on, and provide to you. Get ALL MANUALS, the DVD, RECORDS OF SERVICE...the records of required maintenance will be required by the Y.E.S. contract to transfer the warranty. I would also ask for all his equipment on that boat, fenders, ropes, dock lines, anchor, chain, everything you can get him to send with it.
How many miles? 2000? That sounds a little high on the Uship. I have heard quotes of around $2K for around 1800 miles. I did however sell my first Yamaha sight unseen from Texas to California and
@DawgDaze and
@Suchawittygal trusted me...so I may not have much reason to doubt. But I was a fixture on the previous and this forum, so many folks know me and my boat. The more you can find out about this boat and seller the better. Is he a member of either this forum or YJB?
Be aware, that this boat may have California emissions. Not a bad thing, but outside of CA, it may not be viewed with the same eye. Just something to know. However we can help, that is what we do!