Mobile Home Sales: Realtors' Role?

Whether mobile home sales offices work with realtors depends on the status of the mobile home as either real property or personal property. Real estate agents and realtors can sell mobile homes when the land attached to the property is also owned by the homeowner/seller. In this case, the sale would be considered real property. However, if the mobile home is on a leased lot, it is treated as personal property, similar to selling a car or other personal items, and may require a separate license to sell.

Realtors can sell mobile homes, but only if they are real property, not personal property

If you're selling a mobile home, you might be wondering if you need to hire a realtor or if you can sell it yourself. Well, it depends—not all mobile homes are created equal. One key distinction is whether your home is considered real property or personal property. So, can realtors sell mobile homes? The short answer is: it depends.

Mobile Homes as Real Property

If your mobile home is affixed to the land it's on, then it's typically considered real property. In this case, selling your mobile home won't be too different from selling a traditional home, and you may benefit from hiring a realtor. Reach out to realtors in your area and ask if they have anyone on their team who specializes in selling mobile homes. Keep in mind that the realtor's experience and relevant certifications are essential factors to consider.

Mobile Homes as Personal Property

On the other hand, if your mobile home is not affixed to the land and is sitting on a leased lot, it's usually treated as personal property, similar to selling a car or other personal items. In this case, selling the home yourself is certainly an option. You could also consider checking with the administration of your mobile home park, as they may be able to sell the home for you or refer you to someone who can facilitate the sale. Additionally, you can contact a mobile home buying company, which has experience in buying and selling mobile homes.

Other Considerations

Regardless of whether your mobile home is real or personal property, it's important to do your due diligence and determine if a realtor can sell your mobile home in your specific situation. Buying and selling are serious matters, so be sure to understand the applicable laws before proceeding. Keep in mind that the management of your mobile home park may have veto power over the sale, so their involvement is crucial. Additionally, if your mobile home is not affixed to the land, buyers will need to be informed about the lot lease details, including the amount and frequency of payments.

Mobile homes affixed to the land are real property

Mobile homes affixed to the land are considered real property. This means that they are taxed and assessed annually like a traditional "stick-built" home.

For a mobile home to be considered real property, it must be permanently affixed to land that the homeowner owns. This involves several steps:

• Constructing a permanent foundation, such as laying a cement slab or concrete block, and steel beams.
• Connecting all utilities (water, sewer, and electricity) and ensuring they comply with county code.
• Permanently attaching the mobile home to the foundation by removing the wheels, axles, and towing hitch. This step should be completed by a professional to ensure safety and compliance with relevant codes and zoning requirements.
• Obtaining a land survey and certificate of location, which confirms that the mobile home is tied to a land parcel.
• Ensuring that the deed to the land and the title of the mobile home are identical. This is a crucial step, as the application for the mobile home title will be rejected if they do not match.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for converting a mobile home into real property may vary by state and local jurisdictions. Therefore, it is essential to check the local and state regulations to ensure compliance.

Once a mobile home is considered real property, it can be sold with the help of a realtor. Realtors can assist in marketing the property, handling the necessary paperwork, and guiding buyers through the financing process. However, it is recommended to find a realtor with expertise in selling manufactured homes, as it is a specialized market with unique requirements.

Mobile homes on leased land are personal property

Mobile homes on leased land are considered personal property. This means that if you own the mobile home but lease the land it is on, it is classed as personal property, like a car or jewellery.

The classification of a mobile home as real or personal property is important when it comes to selling. Real property can be sold through a realtor, whereas personal property is more similar to selling a car.

If you want to sell a mobile home that is on leased land, you could try contacting the administration of your park. The manager may be able to sell the home for you or refer you to someone who can. You could also try a mobile home buying company, which are experienced in buying and selling mobile homes.

If you would prefer to use a realtor, you can call a local realtor and explain your situation. Ask if they have experience selling mobile homes and any necessary certifications.

It is important to do your due diligence and determine what laws apply before selling any property.

Realtors can help with the legwork of showing the property and marketing it effectively

Firstly, they can help with the research and planning. Realtors should research the properties the day before taking clients out to ensure they have the latest listings. They should also be familiar with the route to the properties and the area characteristics, such as school districts, proximity to shops, traffic, and access to highways. This knowledge will help them develop expertise beneficial to their buyer-clients. Realtors should also be aware of the property features, such as the age of the home, the number of rooms, and the asking price, to answer any questions buyers may have.

Secondly, realtors can help with the preparation of marketing materials and showing the property. They can create promotional materials, host open houses, and optimise listing copy and photos. They can also stage the home to improve the home buyer's experience and make the home appear open, inviting, and engaging. Additionally, they can ensure the home is clean and presentable, with fresh litter boxes, no dirty laundry, and no dirty dishes in the sink. They can also ensure the home is well-lit and at a comfortable temperature for prospective buyers.

Thirdly, realtors can help with the actual showing of the property. They can give buyers a tour of the property, allowing them to experience the home first-hand and form their own impressions. Realtors can also answer any questions buyers may have and provide additional information about the property and the surrounding area. They can also facilitate the process by bringing the right equipment, such as lockboxes to access the property.

Finally, realtors can help with the follow-up after the showing. They can review the day's showings and ask buyers for their opinions and feedback. They can also follow up on any potential buyers who may be interested in making an offer.

Realtors can also help with the paperwork, financing, and other aspects of the sales process

A realtor can help with the legal and financial aspects of the sales process. They can assist with the mortgage process, including helping buyers to get preapproved for a loan. Realtors can also help sellers ensure that potential buyers are preapproved for a mortgage.

Realtors can also help with the necessary paperwork, guiding buyers and sellers through the process to ensure that everything is completed on time and correctly. They can also help with closing the deal.

Realtors can also help with financial guidance, such as pricing the home or telling buyers if a property is more expensive than average. They can also help buyers understand their financing options.

Realtors can also refer buyers and sellers to other professionals, such as lenders, lawyers, appraisers, and inspectors.

Frequently asked questions