Man Trying to Make Memories Loses Money in Camper Deal
A frail senior in British Columbia who hoped to buy a used camper for a final trip with his grandson ended up out $1,500 when a private sale went wrong, according to his account. The 74-year-old man, who is battling terminal cancer, said he was excited by the possibility of hitting the road for one last adventure, but the transaction unraveled and left him disappointed and financially out of pocket.
Impulse Purchase Turns Sour
The man spotted an older camper van parked at a house and, drawn by its nostalgic look, approached the owner about buying it. After inspecting the vehicle and agreeing on a price, he handed over $500 as an initial payment with a promise to pay the rest later. He said the seller also wrote a note acknowledging the partial payment, which gave him confidence the deal was legitimate.
Payment Sent But Van Never Delivered
When the senior later tried to complete the purchase, the seller insisted on a money order instead of cash. After the buyer sent nearly $1,000 by registered mail to fulfill the supposed balance, he returned to collect the camper only to be told he could no longer have it. The man says the seller then demanded thousands more and refused to return the money already paid, leaving the senior without the van and out a significant sum.
Police See Civil Case, Warn of Risks
Police were informed of the situation, but officers described it as a civil dispute, meaning it doesn’t necessarily rise to criminal fraud under current legal interpretations. As such, law enforcement encouraged the man to pursue the matter through small claims court if he chooses, though he said he doubts the process will finish before his health declines.
Experts Say Caution Is Key in Private Sales
Consumer safety advocates and police often warn that private vehicle sales can be risky without safeguards. Deals that require advance payments by mail, money order, or electronic transfer before seeing a title or vehicle can be red flags. Officials recommend meeting sellers in person, verifying ownership documents, and completing transactions in secure, public settings whenever possible to avoid loss.
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