Here's an outline of how this works in TX:
https://texaslawtoday.com/2013/05/20...osure-process/
Doesn't actually sound that bad for the buyer.
But I agree with 86Scotty, a newer van that hasn't been sitting can be had for $5-7k and will not be full of random stuff that needs attention at the worst possible moment. Swapping the conversion over is something just about anyone with an able body and a hand full of tools can manage.
Edit: I'd caution against vin-swapping, the penalties are harsh, since the assumption is that you're trafficking in stolen vehicles.