LookyLeasy · Process & safety
Avoid Scams When Selling a Car Privately
Private sellers are targets for overpayment check fraud, fake escrow sites, and too-good-to-be-true out-of-state buyers. Legitimate purchasers meet in person, verify the car, and pay with traceable funds. Learn the red flags before you publish on LookyLeasy or any marketplace—speed should never trump verification.
Red flags to reject immediately
Buyers who cannot meet in person but offer to send a shipper with a check. Overpayment checks with requests to wire the difference back. Pressure to 'hold' the car with a refundable deposit through an unknown app.
Anyone asking for your online banking login to 'verify identity' is stealing credentials—not buying a car.
Safe payment practices
Face-to-face cash or a cashier's check verified at the issuing bank before title transfer. For wires, confirm account details by calling your bank using a number you look up—not one the buyer texts.
Do not sign the title until funds clear. For leases, follow lessor instructions—never skip credit approval.
Using LookyLeasy messaging
Keep early conversations on-platform until you verify identity. Report suspicious messages to support.
Pair marketplace diligence with our lease fraud prevention guides if you are transferring a lease instead of selling.
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FAQ
Is Zelle safe for car sales?
Zelle is for trusted parties. Chargebacks and fraud disputes are limited compared to bank wires with verified recipients.
Should I give out my VIN?
Yes to serious buyers running history checks. No to strangers asking for VIN before basic questions.
Are escrow services safe?
Only well-known, independently verified escrow providers. Fake escrow URLs are a common scam pattern.
Where can I read about lease transfer scams?
See our lease transfer scams and fraud prevention pages for takeover-specific risks.
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Car lease transfer guide
Overview of how lease transfers work.
Buyer guide
Know what to ask before assuming a lease.
Seller guide
Prepare a clear listing and verify transfer details.
Fraud prevention
Review red flags before sending money or documents.
Transfer fees
Common fees and questions for buyers and sellers.
Take over a car lease
Buyer-focused steps for assuming a lease.
Ready to list your lease?
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