Yes Hawk, sight unseen is a risk in any online purchase - but vehicles are a particular concern.
I once was interested in a vehicle, located quite nearby, so I organised to have a look at it.
WELL!
I couldn't say the description was wrong - but it's relationship to the vehicle was very much on the optimistic side.
What WAS troubling is that I have done some of my own mechanical work and am familiar with how a few things should look like under the bonnet and elsewhere. Not inspiring at all.
Further, it was an LPG converted vehicle and since I had done a little helping out with my mechanic (a licensed one) who does LPG as well, I have learned some of the rules and techniques of LPG installation. (FYI - from my observations, safety is the top consideration).
The LPG on this one was as dodgy as all hell. I walked away, glad they didn't try and start it.
So, yes Hawk. Inspecting a vehicle is absolutely necessary - but even more important is to have it done by someone you trust who knows what they are looking at!