Buying car from executor

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Sun 13 Mar 2005 11:27
Buying car from executor - dodo
I want to buy my friend's mother's Micra. Unfortunately her mother died some time ago and the Micra is being sold by her executor. What do I do re the car registration document? The section to fill in the previous owners name is to be left balnk? Do I need a copy of the death cert? A letter from a solicitor? I know this was covered recently. Thanks
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Sun 13 Mar 2005 11:51
Buying car from executor - Hugo {P}
Hi Dodo

I was in the same situation last May. We decided to keep my mother's car.

Firstly, the seller would normally fill in the top part of the V5 and send the details to the DVAL. This is NOT your job, though this would not stop you offering to do it. However it is the Seller's responsibility to make sure this is done.

OK if the current keeper is deceased, the process for the seller is very similar. The executor should sign the top part on belhalf of the keeper, enclose a copy of the death certificate and a letter explaining the situation. A grant of probate office copy would be the icing on the cake. The whole lot should be sent off to DVLA, thought they may ask the seller to send it to a different address - phone them and ask.

As I said, provided the executor trusts you and you are diligent, it may be expedient to ask him to sign the document, write the letter and supply you with copies of the death cert etc and do it yourself.

Aside from the above, all you need to do is pay the seller/executor the agreed price and ask for the bottom part of the V5, which you enter your details onto. You can use this to tax the car if needed within the first 2 months of ownership.

If you hear nothing within the first 2 months I would advise you to contact the DVLA to confirm the vehicle is in your name or that of the deceased. If it is in the former keeper's name then you'll need to approach the executor again - delicately. Or you can apply for a V5 in your name, which is straightforward.

H
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Sun 13 Mar 2005 21:10
Buying car from executor - dodo
Hi Hugo

Thanks. I'll have a word with the executor in the morning.
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