Buying a car long distance (remotely)

[Kent McLean]

Gentlepeople,

I'm thinking of buying a car that's 1000 miles away. 
Does anyone have any experience doing this?  
(I'm sure this topic has been covered, but a check of 
the archives turns up too many unrelated topics, like 
"remote control" and "looks good from a distance").

Aside from checking the car for problems, I'm also 
concerned about transporting it home. My plan is to
fly/drive to the location and drive it home. But what
about licensing and plates? I don't want to have to
make two trips (one to inspect/buy, and a second
after registering and licensing it).

I've heard of using a (remote) dealer to help out.
They can do the inspection and possibly issue
temporary plates.

Any and all suggestions welcome.

Regards,
Kent McLean