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Buying and Selling Manufactured Homes - The Complexities

If you're planning to buy or sell your mobile home in California, you might be in for a bit of a ride! The process can be quite complex, with the state's Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) overseeing the titling and registration. But don't worry – there is a way to make things easier. By enlisting the help of an escrow company, you can simplify the process and navigate any challenges that may arise during the transfer. So take a deep breath and let's get started!

What intricacies are involved?

Transferring ownership of a mobile home can be a complicated process, especially in California. The Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) oversees the titling and registration, which can add to the complexity of the transaction. However, we can help simplify the process and address any issues or challenges that may arise during the transfer.

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Common Issues in Mobile Home Transactions That Involve HCD

Title Transfer

The transfer of title with HCD can take several months, which is longer than typical real estate transactions.

Park Approval Requirements

Buyers of mobile homes often need to obtain approval from the mobile home park, which can involve credit checks and meeting other park-specific requirements.

Documentation and Forms

Mobile home transactions require specific HCD documents to be prepared and signed by both buyer and seller. The escrow company needs a copy of the seller’s existing title or registration, or at least their DECAL number, and contact information for the Mobile Home Park Manager.

No Title Insurance

Unlike traditional real estate transactions, mobile home transactions don't typically involve title insurance.

Tax Clearance Certificate

In many cases, escrow must obtain a tax clearance certificate from the County Tax Collector before the escrow can close, which can be time-consuming.

Sales Tax vs. Property Tax

Depending on whether the mobile home is taxed by the local county or not, different tax implications may apply.

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How We Address These Challenges

1.

Managing the necessary paperwork and ensuring that all the specific requirements for HCD are met.

2.

Coordinating with the mobile home park for buyer approval.

3.

Handling the financial aspects, including holding the buyer’s funds securely and managing the disbursement once all conditions are met.

4.

Guiding both parties through the process, which can differ significantly from standard real estate transactions, and ensuring compliance with state regulations.

5.

Obtaining necessary tax clearance certificates and managing tax-related aspects of the transaction.

6.

Facilitating communication between all parties involved to ensure a smooth transfer.

By taking care of these aspects, an we can significantly streamline the mobile home purchase process, making it more efficient and less stressful for both buyers and sellers.


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