What to do when buying a mobile home in Florida?

Ask for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the mobile home and call the Florida DHSMV to check that the person or company that owns the mobile home actually does own it and that title is “clear.” Ask to see the “rules and regulations,” “park prospectus” and mobile homeowners’ association “bylaws,” if any.

What’s the most frequently asked question about mobile homes?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions about mobile homes of all. Manufactured home can and do appreciate. Of course, there’s a lot of variables that play into that appreciation. In October 2018 Market Watch published an article titled Mobile-home values might rise as fast as regular homes—here’s why that matters.

Do you have to pay sales tax on a manufactured home in Florida?

If your Florida manufactured home is assessed as personal property, you’ll owe a six percent state sales tax, plus any applicable local taxes. When buying from a Florida manufactured home dealer, this will be figured into the sales price. If you buy from a private seller, you’ll need to remit sales tax to the state on your own.

How does a mobile home title work in Florida?

A sworn statement by the owner of the real property stating that he/she is the owner of the mobile home and the home is permanently affixed to the real property per state law. The following infographic from Old Republic National Title Insurance Company will help to clarify if you should retire your mobile home title:

What do you need to know about buying a manufactured home in Florida?

When buying from a Florida manufactured home dealer, this will be figured into the sales price. If you buy from a private seller, you’ll need to remit sales tax to the state on your own. If you don’t own the land under your manufactured home, you must also register your home with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

What should you ask before buying a mobile home?

With all the facts at hand, you can make an informed decision on buying a mobile home, it’s value, and what potential maintenance and repair issues you’ll be responsible for in the future. For anyone considering buying a new or previously-owned mobile home, make sure that these are the questions that you ask before you buy.

Do you have to register a mobile home in Florida?

Florida laws does state that the dealer who you purchase your new mobile home from is responsible for the initial title application. Every mobile home in the state of Florida must be registered with a fee and a decal attached to a window that is visible from the exterior of the home.

Do you have to pay taxes on a mobile home in Florida?

Florida has a reputation as a low-tax state thanks to its lack of an income tax, but mobile home owners will want to ensure they’re paying all applicable mobile home taxes. First, you’ll need to know if your manufactured home will be assessed as personal property (if it’s not on a permanent foundation) or as real estate (if it is).