How to get the Title to Your Manufactured Home

Handling the title of your manufactured home can sometimes be confusing, especially since the process can vary depending on your specific circumstances.

Below, we outline how to secure the title in five common scenarios:

Purchasing a New Manufactured Home

When you buy a new manufactured home, the dealer typically handles the paperwork associated with titling. After the purchase, you should receive a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), which you will then take to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or appropriate state agency to convert into a title. This process registers the home in your name, similar to receiving a title for a new car.

Buying a Used Manufactured Home

If you’re purchasing a used manufactured home, the process is similar to buying a used car. The current owner should provide you with the home’s title, signed over to you. Take this title to the DMV to transfer it into your name.

Important Tip: Make sure there are no liens against the home, as these need to be cleared before the transfer can be completed.

Inheriting a Manufactured Home

Inheriting a manufactured home involves transferring the title from the deceased’s name into yours. You’ll likely need a copy of the death certificate and legal documents proving your right to inherit (like a will), and you may need to go through your state’s probate process. Once you have the necessary documents, you can proceed with transferring the title at your local titling office.

Removing a Lien from a Manufactured Home Title

If you’ve paid off a loan or mortgage associated with your manufactured home, you’ll need to remove the lienholder from the title. The lienholder should send you a lien release document once the loan is paid off. Take this document, along with your title, to the DMV to get a clean title issued in your name.

Converting a Manufactured Home to Real Property

If your manufactured home is permanently affixed to land that you own and you want to classify it as real property (which can have tax and financing benefits), the process involves a few more steps. You’ll need to file a certificate of location with your local county recording office and provide proof that the home is permanently affixed to the land. This typically converts the manufactured home’s title into a deed, which is recorded along with land deeds.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the titling process for a manufactured home doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the requirements for your specific situation, you can ensure that the title to your home is properly secured, protecting your ownership and simplifying any future transactions.

For specific details on the status of your manufactured home, please check with your local manufactured housing division or contact your local title company. Always consult with your local titling or recording office for the most accurate and detailed guidance tailored to your location and circumstances.

For more insights and tips on managing your manufactured home, visit our blog page regularly, and feel free to reach out with any questions or topics you’d like us to cover next!