Sell My Mobile Home
When it comes to mobile homes in Florida, one of the most common questions that arise is whether they have a deed or a title, and what the difference is between the two. This is an important distinction to make, as it can have significant implications for the ownership, sale, and taxation of your mobile home.
Mobile Homes: Deeds vs. Titles
A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real property, such as land and any permanent structures attached to it. In the context of mobile homes, a deed is typically used when the home is considered real property, meaning it is permanently affixed to the land it sits on.
On the other hand, a title is a legal document that proves ownership of personal property, such as vehicles, boats, and, in some cases, mobile homes. When a mobile home is not permanently affixed to the land, it is considered personal property, and a title is required to establish ownership.
Non-Deeded Mobile Homes
A non-deeded mobile home, also known as a titled mobile home, is a mobile home that is not permanently affixed to the land it sits on. This means that the home is considered personal property, and ownership is established through a title rather than a deed.
Non-deeded mobile homes are typically found in mobile home parks, where the homeowner owns the mobile home itself but leases the land it sits on from the park owner. In this scenario, the mobile home is treated as a vehicle, and the title must be transferred to the new owner during a sale, much like you would transfer the title of a car.
Deeded Mobile Homes
A deeded mobile home, also known as a real property mobile home, is a mobile home that is permanently affixed to the land it sits on. In this case, the mobile home is considered part of the real property, and ownership is established through a deed, just like a traditional site-built home.
Deeded mobile homes are typically found on privately-owned land, where the homeowner owns both the mobile home and the land it sits on. When a deeded mobile home is sold, the deed must be transferred to the new owner, following the same process as a traditional real estate transaction.
Implications of Deeds and Titles
The distinction between deeds and titles for mobile homes has several important implications:
Title and Registration: For mobile homes on leased land, you need a title, registration, and decal from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). For mobile homes on owned land treated as personal property, the same title and registration process applies. However, if treated as real property, you need to obtain a certificate of title from the DHSMV, which replaces the title and registration, and transfer the home through a deed and closing process like traditional real estate.
Taxation: If your mobile home is considered personal property (non-deeded) and located on leased land, you need to pay sales tax (6% plus local surtaxes) on the sale price and an annual registration renewal fee based on the home’s size. The buyer typically pays these taxes and fees at sale time. However, if your mobile home is on owned land treated as real property (deeded), you may be exempt from sales tax if valued under $5,000, but must pay sales tax on amounts over $5,000 as well as annual property taxes based on the assessed value.
Financing: Obtaining financing for a non-deeded mobile home can be more challenging than for a deeded mobile home, as lenders may treat it like a vehicle loan rather than a traditional mortgage.
Resale value: Deeded mobile homes tend to have a higher resale value than non-deeded mobile homes, as they are considered part of the real property and can appreciate in value along with the land.
Navigating the complexities of mobile home deeds and titles in Florida can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. It is essential to consult with professionals, such as experienced mobile home dealers, to ensure that you understand your rights and obligations as a mobile homeowner.
Sell Mobile Home for Cash
Are you looking to sell your mobile home with land in Polk County, Florida? Lincoln Madison Investments makes the process hassle-free. We specialize in buying mobile homes with land across Lakeland, Winter Haven, Davenport, Poinciana, Haines City, and throughout Polk County, regardless of the condition or situation. We offer fair cash offers, handle all paperwork, and close quickly, saving you time and money. Call us today at 863-521-0549 or contact us online for a no-obligation quote and experience a seamless home sale!
Please note: Laws regarding mobile home ownership vary by state. Seek legal guidance for clarification on specific regulations in your area.
