Newbie also need advice

[Getaways]

I've been given a lead on an AS that is listed at less than 10% of what similar size and age units are going for.

I am a novice at this. Been looking for several years now.

How do you find out this is really titled without possibly offending the seller?

It just seems too good to be true.

[Getaways]

It has all the earmarks of a scam. Contacted the seller, "...I'm in the army and being transferred to Alaska for 3 years...."

What kind of questions should I ask to figure this out?

[Rich W]

Sounds to me like you've already figured this out as a scam.
1. See the AS in person
2. Look it over very well, ask to see the title
3. Cash up front, take delivery with the cash
4. Don't worry about offending anyone. If the deal is legit, no one will be offended. If you were selling, would you be offended if someone asked detailed questions?
5. Get the title (his name and address should be on it) and bill of sale. Take delivery on the spot.

Usually, you can tell if you are there in person, about the seller. If there is any doubt in your mind, walk away. There are other AS out there for sale. Be cautious. The guy I bought mine from was very open, I asked him every question I could think of. I left him a check as a deposit. He said that was more than he had left with the first owner. Turns out, he was 2 years behind me in the same high school, looked him up when I got home.