i looking at my friends van for purchase

A 2008 model is worth around $9000 for a private party sale. What exactly is wrong with the vehicle? I would be wary of why he is offering it to you so cheap.

ok thanks ill ask him that.. but is the miles on this van high for the year !!!???

No, the mileage is not too high. Figure between 10,000 to 15,000 per year for the age of the vehicle. So it should be between 70,000 and 105,000. It's high/average. But as Fordnut said sounds too cheap! Does he have the title? Is he having financial problems and just want what's owed on it to get out from under it? How long has he owned it? If he doesn't have the title in hand get him to sign a paper stating that you're buying the vehicle and he is to turn over the signed title to you as soon as he gets it from the bank. Since he's a friend, pay by check and put the full VIN on the check. HTH. -Jim