Do you need a title for a mobile home on land?

Question

I am dealing with a seller in Florida, the mobile home is 40 years old and on land. There is proof of deed with county and tax assessor, however the title company is asking for title or VIN number. From my understanding the title is surrendered when the mobile home becomes real property. Do we need title or VIN number to transfer deed to new owner?

Steve Morris · Answer

Can only talk to OR.  As long as there is the slightest chance you can move it off the lot, it is not real property.  So you don't really get a deed like with perm improvements that go with the land.

However, you do owe taxes on.  That's why they should have a unique VIN or license plate like a car.

Marelyn Valdes · Answer

Normally, the VIN number is listed on the tax assessor's site.  You can call the office and ask if it's been retired and if not, you would need the title(s) to transfer ownership.  The seller should be able to apply for a duplicate title from the tag agency and transfer it to you at closing.  Personally, I would pay to have the title retired at closing so you won't have any problems in the future.  BTW, the tax collector may include the mobile on the taxes, but that only means it was listed in the deed transferring the property to the owner - not that the title was retired.  I am selling a DW MH and just ran into the same problem and had to pay for duplicate titles for each side.

Rachel H. · Answer

@Kenesha Lewis Most mobile homes do have a VIN number. It's usually referred to as the HUD label number or serial number (both different numbers). If you cannot see it on the home, check all documents relating to it including the taxes and any other records the state or county has on file for it. Hope that helps!

Peter Walther · Answer

Is the property being assessed with the mobile home as real property?  If it is, I believe it should have an RP sticker and title to it should home run with the land.  If it's not, then it may be considered personal property and title to it would need to be transferred just like with a car.  If it's not and you want it to be, check with the county assessor for their requirements to obtain an RP sticker.