so he financed it privately with the last owner?

so that means the title is in his name but the previous owner is holding it? or is a bank holding the title?

just make sure that the title is signed by whoever's name is on it, and make sure that the lien has signed off too, theres a section that he can sign. as long as it's signed, it doesnt matter if there is a lien or not. thats between the seller and the previous owner.