You want a solid, driveable wagon for little money - go west! Wait until the worst part of winter weather is over, then around February 1st, start looking in the greater Southern California Craig's Lists - LA, Orange County, Inland Empire, San Diego, etc. Plan to fly out if you need to, take a few extra days off and drive it home. By spares before you hit the road - belts, radiator hoses, maybe a water pump, and a few tools, Take your time and don't over-stress the new ride. $3,200 - Baldwin Park (LA suburb) http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/cto/5979351346.html If your budget is a bit larger, you might find something like this - (Orange County) http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/cto/5965662056.html
If there is a website he can give you to get a title, he should give it to himself and go get it before asking $3500!
I told him that exact same thing when I contacted him about the car before it was posted here. After I told him it would be in his best interest to get a title, I never heard from him again.