A lot of state DMVs have vin check on line for free. I check vin's from other states sometimes. Just google "vin check" or "vin lien check" followed by your state of interest. You can usually check for a clear title that was & also make sure the title isn't branded (a very bad thing). Down here in FL we have gone almost 100% to electronic titles, so when you sell/buy a car you don't get a piece of paper in hand. The way to be 100% sure you are ok is go with the buyer to the DMV & have them take care of the paperwork to change ownership right there. If there is something shady going on they aren't going to head to a government building with you to be outed!