How to buy a classic long distance

Great input! I'm sniffing around '63,64 Dart GT /6 Verts. A member has a mild hot rod one in CO. I have interest in what looks like original condition in NC, and MD. With C-19, and being in my 60's, I'm not getting on an airplane anytime soon. I used to say, "Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean they aren't out to get me." Now I'm thinking I know I'm paranoid but am I paranoid enough? Same thoughts are going to keep me out of motel rooms, on a road trip. The carrier quotes I'm being flooded with are open carrier. Thanks for the tips on inspection and bonding!

Sounds like a search for auto inspection agents is a place to start. Did you guys tie the car up with partial money while having the car inspected? I thought there would be some kind of escrow service for cars. Handing someone +/- $11K without looking at them doesn't leave me feeling warm and fuzzy.
I didn't give any money up front. I had to pay for the inspection up front. They called the owner that day and coordinated the inspection. They had the report and pictures to me in two days of the inspection. I paid for an enclosed trailer $1200 NY to KS. I figured it was cheaper than me driving out, getting it, and driving back.