Paying for a car in instalments?

[drivinganglia]

Hello,

My brother has found a car that he really wants, but it is over his budget. The seller has offered to accept half of the total payment now, and to take the remaining balance over the next few months when he can afford to pay it. The seller is local to us but I am concerned about how a sale like this would work and whether we would be protected or have any legal claim to the car having paid for half initially. Does anyone have any experience of similar or advice? As much as he wants the car we really don’t know if this is a safe way to get it.

Thanks in advance!

[anonymous-user]

There will always be another car. If there’s no way of getting the money together to buy it, wait until there is.

[edc]

Get a loan if he really wants it.

[mike74]

I'd imagine any private seller willing to accept instalments from a stranger is either a completely gullible mug or else someone who you really don't want to mess with.