First Time Mobile Home Seller?

Selling a trailer or mobile home involves several important considerations to ensure a successful transaction. If you are a first time mobile home seller, you should pay attention to the following factors:

Property Type Clarification

Determine whether your mobile home is considered personal property or real property. This distinction impacts the documentation and selling process. If it’s on land you own, converting it to real property can have advantages, like combined tax bills and higher resale value.

Documentation

Gather the necessary paperwork, including the Transfer of Title, Bill of Sale, Notarized Transfer of Title, and proof of tax payment for personal property. For real property, you may need documents like the original HCD registration card, HCD certificate of title, decal number, and VIN documentation.

Appraisal and Inspection

Consider getting a pre-listing appraisal to identify any installation or inspection issues early. This helps ensure compliance with standards and address maintenance and termite concerns.

Enhancing Appeal

To sell quickly, enhance the digital appeal of your trailer home. Staging and landscaping tips, such as raised flower beds, skirting repairs, and driveway maintenance, can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. Depersonalize the space but consider listing it as furnished for seasonal buyers.

Marketing

Whether you choose to sell by owner (FSBO) or through an agent, effective marketing is essential. Create an optimized listing with appealing photos, as listings with more than two photos tend to receive more views and leads.

Paperwork in Arizona

If you’re selling in Arizona, be aware of state-specific requirements. This includes having the manufactured home title, a tax clearance letter, and a notarized bill of sale. The title transfer process may follow real estate methods if the home is affixed to a permanent foundation.

Buyer Financing

Understand the various financing options available to potential buyers. FHA loans, chattel loans (similar to auto loans), owner financing, and cash purchases are all possibilities. The choice depends on the buyer’s financial situation.

Pricing

Determine an appropriate selling price by evaluating both the value of your mobile home and the land it sits on. Mobile homes typically depreciate while land appreciates. A professional appraisal or using the National Appraisal Guide can help you set the right price.

Agent or No Agent

Decide whether to use a real estate agent specialized in mobile homes or sell without one. If selling without an agent, be prepared to handle thorough advertising, specifying financing options, price, location, and home details.

Closing

Understand the closing process, which involves transferring the title when the transaction is complete. The specifics can vary depending on whether the land is included in the sale. For owner financing, ensure your name is added as a lien holder until the loan is paid off.

As a First Time Mobile Home Seller, You’re Not Alone!

By addressing these key points and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can navigate the trailer home selling process more effectively. However, if you wish to sidestep all of the work, you can contact Highest Cash Offer and allow us to make an offer on your mobile home in “as is” condition. We can take care of all the legalities and make any labor or improvements unnecessary. If that interests you, call today!