Tag: how much is a single wide trailer home

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Mobile Home?
How much does it cost to build a mobile home? The price varies based on size, materials, and customization. Mobile homes offer an affordable housing option with modern features and efficient designs.

Factors That Affect the Cost to Build a Mobile Home

Several factors influence the overall cost of building a mobile home. Choosing the right features ensures a comfortable and cost-effective home.

Key Cost Factors:
- Size and Layout – Larger homes with multiple sections cost more.
- Construction Materials – Higher-quality materials increase durability and price.
- Customization Options – Upgraded interiors and add-ons affect the final cost.
- Delivery and Setup – Transportation and installation fees depend on location.
- Foundation Type – Permanent foundations require additional investment.
Average Cost to Build a Mobile Home

The cost of building a mobile home depends on size and design. Single-section homes cost less than multi-section models.

Estimated Costs:
- Single-Section Homes – $50,000 to $90,000.
- Double-Section Homes – $90,000 to $150,000.
- Triple-Section Homes – $150,000 to $250,000.
What Affects the Price of Mobile Home Construction?

The price of a mobile home depends on materials, labor, and design choices. Homeowners can adjust these factors to stay within budget.

Common Cost Factors:
- Interior Finishes – Flooring, cabinetry, and countertops impact expenses.
- Energy Efficiency – Insulation, windows, and HVAC systems improve savings.
- Exterior Features – Roofing, siding, and skirting add durability.
- Upgraded Appliances – Modern kitchens and bathrooms increase comfort.
Customization Options When You Build a Mobile Home

Many mobile home manufacturers offer customization choices. Selecting the right features helps create a personalized living space.

Popular Custom Features:
- Kitchen Upgrades – Granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
- Bathroom Enhancements – Walk-in showers and double vanities.
- Smart Home Features – Security systems and energy-efficient lighting.
- Outdoor Additions – Decks, porches, and carports.
Comparing Mobile Home Costs to Traditional Homes

Building a mobile home costs less than constructing a traditional house. The savings make mobile homes a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Key Differences:
- Construction Time – Mobile homes take weeks, not months, to build.
- Lower Material Costs – Factory-built homes reduce waste.
- Energy Efficiency – Modern designs lower utility bills.
- Affordable Maintenance – Repairs and upkeep cost less over time.
Financing Options for Building a Mobile Home

Several financing options help buyers afford mobile home construction. Lenders offer different loans based on home type and location.

Common Financing Choices:
- FHA Loans – Government-backed loans with flexible terms.
- VA Loans – Available to eligible veterans and military families.
- Chattel Loans – Used for homes on leased land.
- Personal Loans – An option for small construction projects.
Steps to Build a Mobile Home

Building a mobile home involves planning, design, and installation. Following the right steps ensures a smooth process.

Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Choose a Manufacturer – Research builders and compare models.
2. Select a Floor Plan – Pick a layout that suits your needs.
3. Decide on Custom Features – Upgrade interiors, exteriors, and appliances.
4. Secure Financing – Apply for a loan or set a budget.
5. Schedule Construction – Work with the builder on timelines.
6. Plan for Delivery and Setup – Arrange for transportation and installation.
7. Inspect and Move In – Ensure everything meets expectations before settling in.
Benefits of Building a Mobile Home

Mobile homes provide quality housing at an affordable price. Custom options and efficient construction make them a great investment.

Advantages of Mobile Homes:
- Lower Costs – More affordable than site-built homes.
- Faster Construction – Factory-built homes reduce delays.
- Modern Designs – Customizable interiors and layouts.
- Energy Efficiency – Lower utility bills with smart features.
Final Thoughts on the Cost to Build a Mobile Home

How much does it cost to build a mobile home? The price depends on size, materials, and features. With smart choices and proper planning, mobile homes offer an affordable and comfortable living option. Customization and financing options make homeownership accessible to many buyers.

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February 4, 2025
The Cost of Living in a Mobile Home vs. a Traditional House in Florida
The cost of living in a mobile home often differs significantly from that of a traditional house in Florida. While both options have advantages and challenges, understanding their financial differences can help you make an informed choice. Let’s compare the details from monthly expenses to maintenance costs to compare these two housing options.

Initial Purchase Costs

The initial cost of buying a mobile home is generally lower than that of a traditional house. In Florida, a new single-wide mobile home typically costs between $50,000 and $80,000, while a double-wide model may range from $80,000 to $150,000. These prices are significantly lower than the median price of a traditional house in Florida, which often exceeds $400,000 in many areas.

Mobile homes, however, require land if you plan to lease a lot. Buying land can increase the upfront costs, but leasing provides a more budget-friendly alternative. In contrast, purchasing a traditional house usually includes the land as part of the total price.

Monthly Housing Payments

Monthly expenses for mobile and traditional houses can vary based on financing, taxes, and fees. Due to the lower purchase price, mobile homeowners typically face lower monthly loan payments. However, if the home is in a park, lot rent adds to monthly expenses, ranging from $400 to $1,000 in Florida.

Traditional houseowners usually have higher mortgage payments but do not pay separate lot rent. Property taxes and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees are standard for conventional houses, though some mobile home parks also charge HOA fees. Comparing these expenses can help determine which option fits your budget.

Utility Costs

Mobile homes are often smaller, leading to lower utility bills than traditional houses. Smaller spaces require less energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. In Florida’s warm climate, mobile homeowners benefit from reduced air conditioning costs, which can represent a significant part of utility expenses.

Traditional houses usually have more extensive floor plans, generating higher electricity and water bills. However, newer homes often feature energy-efficient designs and appliances, which can offset some of these costs. Mobile homes with older construction may lack similar energy-saving features, potentially increasing long-term utility expenses.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Maintenance costs differ depending on the type of home and its construction. Mobile homes often require less maintenance initially but may need more frequent repairs over time. Roofs, siding, and plumbing systems in older mobile homes can wear out faster, leading to higher repair expenses.

While built with more durable materials, traditional houses can also require expensive maintenance. Roof replacements, HVAC repairs, and foundation issues are common concerns for homeowners. However, a well-maintained house may retain its value longer than a mobile home, balancing these costs over time.

Property Taxes

The property tax burden varies significantly between mobile homes and traditional houses. Mobile homes classified as personal property instead of real estate usually have lower taxes. This can save owners hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually in Florida.

Traditional houses are subject to higher property taxes because their value includes the land. This tax is often calculated as a percentage of the home’s total assessed value, typically much higher for traditional houses than mobile homes.

Insurance Costs

Insurance premiums for mobile and traditional houses differ due to construction and risk factors. Mobile homes often cost more to insure because they are more vulnerable to wind, flooding, and fire damage. In Florida, mobile homeowners may face higher premiums due to the state’s hurricane risk.

While traditional houses are usually less expensive to insure per square foot, their larger size and higher value can result in higher total premiums. Adding coverage for specific risks, like flood insurance, can further increase these costs for both types of housing.

Resale Value

Resale value is another important factor when comparing mobile homes to traditional houses. Traditional houses typically appreciate over time, making them a better long-term investment. The land included with a conventional house contributes significantly to its value.

In contrast, mobile homes often depreciate like vehicles, especially when not permanently affixed to owned land. However, well-maintained mobile homes on owned land can retain value better, especially in desirable locations.

Community Living and Amenities

Mobile home parks often provide pools, fitness centers, and organized events. Although these community perks are expensive, they can save money compared to using external facilities. These parks appeal to retirees or those seeking a close-knit environment.

Traditional houses only include such amenities within planned communities with HOA fees. While homeowners may enjoy more privacy, they might need to pay separately for gym memberships or pool access, which adds to living expenses.

Environmental Considerations

Due to their reduced size, mobile homes may have a smaller environmental footprint. Smaller homes require fewer materials during construction and consume less energy for daily us, which can lead to cost savings over time.

Traditional houses, particularly larger ones, require more resources and energy. However, energy-efficient designs in newer traditional houses can help reduce environmental impact. Choosing solar panels or energy-efficient appliances can lower energy bills for both housing types.

Key Differences in Florida’s Housing Market

Florida’s housing market presents unique challenges and opportunities for mobile home and traditional house buyers. Mobile homes remain popular with retirees and budget-conscious buyers. Many are attracted to them by their lower upfront costs, community living, and lower property taxes.

Traditional houses attract buyers looking for long-term investments and increased living space. While they cost more initially, they are often appreciated, creating equity for homeowners.

Choosing What’s Right for You

The cost of living in a mobile home versus a traditional house depends on your priorities and financial situation. Mobile homes offer lower upfront costs, reduced taxes, and smaller utility bills, making them a cost-effective choice for many. Traditional houses provide long-term investment potential, increased space, and more stability but come with higher costs.

Evaluate your budget, lifestyle, and plans before deciding. Whether you prefer the affordability of mobile homes or the investment opportunities of traditional houses, Florida offers diverse housing options to meet your needs.

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December 18, 2024
Understanding the Payments When Buying or Selling a Florida Mobile Home
Owning a mobile home in Florida offers a sunshine-soaked alternative to traditional housing. But beyond the excitement of finding your perfect mobile home lies the world of financial transactions. This article explores the various payments involved when buying or selling a mobile home in Florida so you can confidently navigate the process.

Payments for the Seller
- Closing Costs: While typically lower than those associated with traditional home sales, closing costs for sellers can include:
  - Title Transfer Fees: These fees vary by county and cover transferring the mobile home title to the buyer.
  - Pro-rated Property Taxes: You’ll be responsible for a portion of the year’s property taxes up to the closing date.
  - Park Fees: Depending on the mobile home park agreement, you might be responsible for prorated monthly lot rent or early termination fees.
  - Real Estate Agent Commission (Optional): If you choose to work with a realtor, you’ll typically pay a commission upon successful sale.
Payments for the Buyer
- Down Payment: Similar to traditional home purchases, a down payment towards the purchase price of the mobile home is often required.
- Closing Costs: Buyers also incur closing costs, which can include:
  - Title Search Fees: These fees ensure the mobile home title is clear and transferable.
  - Origination Fees (if financing): If you finance the purchase, you’ll likely pay the lender origination fees.
  - Escrow Fees: A neutral third-party service might hold funds in escrow until the closing is complete.
  - Prorated Property Taxes: From the closing date onwards, you’ll be responsible for the remaining property taxes for the year.
  - Lot Rent: Be sure to factor in the monthly lot rent charged by the mobile home park, which you’ll be responsible for upon taking ownership.
  - Mobile Home Inspection (Optional): While not always mandatory, a professional inspection can uncover any potential issues with the mobile home, saving you money in the long run.
Why Choose The Mobile Home Dealer to Navigate Your Transaction Smoothly?

The mobile home buying and selling world can seem intricate, especially when navigating the various payments involved. The Mobile Home Dealer is here to guide you through the process:
- Experience You Can Trust: With our extensive experience in the Florida mobile home market, we understand the financial nuances and can help you navigate closing costs efficiently.
- Expert Negotiation: We can help ensure buyers and sellers receive fair deals and understand the financial implications of each step.
- Comprehensive Guidance: From down payments to closing costs, we’ll guide you through all the financial aspects of buying or selling your mobile home.
Conclusion

Buying or selling a mobile home in Florida can be a rewarding experience. By understanding the various payments involved and having a trusted partner like The Mobile Home Dealer by your side, you can confidently navigate the financial aspects of the transaction and turn your sunshine dreams into reality.

Let us help you navigate the financial landscape of buying or selling your Florida mobile home!

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June 19, 2024
Double-Wide Mobile Homes for Sale Under $5,000: A Florida Reality Check
The Sunshine State beckons with its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and endless attractions. However, for those seeking an affordable place to live, the dream can quickly turn sour when considering traditional housing costs. Enter the idea of double-wide mobile homes for sale under $5,000. Can you snag spacious, comfortable living at a rock-bottom price in Florida? Let’s dive into the truth behind these ultra-budget mobile homes.

The Reality of Sub-$5,000 Double Wides

While the idea of a dirt-cheap double wide might be appealing, the reality is finding one in good, livable condition under $5,000 in Florida is a long shot. Here’s why:
- Age and Condition: Mobile homes depreciate rapidly, especially older models. A double wide under $5,000 is likely to be decades old, potentially pre-1976 when federal building standards for manufactured housing (mobile homes) were established. These older models may have outdated electrical wiring, plumbing, and building materials, all posing safety and functionality concerns.
- Repairs and Renovations: Even if the structure itself seems sound, a sub-$5,000 double-wide will likely require significant repairs and renovations. Think of roof leaks, damaged flooring, outdated appliances, and potential mold issues. Factors in the cost of materials and labor, as well as the initial bargain price, can quickly balloon.
- Land Costs: Mobile homes rarely come with land included in the purchase price. You’ll need to find a mobile home park that allows double wides and factor in monthly lot rent fees. These fees can vary depending on the location and amenities offered by the park.
Fixer Upper? Maybe, But Proceed with Caution

While finding a structurally sound double wide under $5,000 might be a challenge, it’s not entirely impossible. However, be prepared for a major fixer-upper project. This means extensive renovations, potentially including:
- Roof repairs or replacement
- Upgrading electrical wiring and plumbing
- Flooring replacement or repairs
- Kitchen and bathroom updates
- HVAC system inspection and potential repairs
These renovations can quickly eat into your budget, so be sure to factor in realistic costs before diving in. Consider your DIY skills, as some repairs might require professional assistance, further increasing the overall cost.

Beyond the Price Tag: Other Considerations

Even if you find a seemingly affordable double-wide, there are several other factors to consider:
- Mobile Home Park Regulations: Review the park’s rules and regulations regarding age restrictions, pet policies, and renovation limitations.
- Location: Double-wide communities are often located outside of major city centers. Consider your transportation needs and access to amenities.
- Financing: Securing financing for a mobile home under $5,000 can be difficult. Be prepared to pay cash or explore alternative financing options.
Exploring Alternatives to Sub-$5,000 Double Wides

While the idea of a super-cheap double-wide might be enticing, there are other options to consider in Florida’s housing market:
- Older, Smaller Mobile Homes: You might find slightly newer (but still older) single-wide mobile homes under $5,000. While not double-wide, they can offer a more affordable option, albeit with less living space.
- Manufactured Housing Communities: Look for newer manufactured housing communities in Florida. These communities often offer financing options and provide a sense of community with amenities like pools and clubhouses.
- Apartment Rentals: Depending on your location, renting an apartment might offer a more predictable monthly cost compared to owning a potentially problematic mobile home.
Conclusion

Finding double-wide mobile homes for sale under $5,000 in Florida is challenging. While it might seem like an attractive option, such homes likely require significant renovation and may not be structurally sound. Explore alternative options and be realistic about the true costs of owning a mobile home, especially a very low-priced one. A thorough inspection and a well-defined budget are crucial before starting this path. Remember, sometimes the cheapest option costs more in the long run.

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May 8, 2024
People Ask: How Much Does a Double-wide Mobile Home Cost in Florida
Florida, the Sunshine State, beckons with its balmy weather, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Unsurprisingly, many dream of owning a piece of this paradise. But for those seeking an affordable housing option, “how much is a double wide mobile home” often arises.

Double-wide or manufactured mobile homes offer a spacious and cost-effective alternative to traditional stick-built houses. They come in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for families, retirees, or anyone seeking comfortable living quarters. However, navigating the price range of these homes can be tricky, as several factors influence the final cost.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of double-wide mobile homes in Florida, shedding light on estimated costs, location variations, and additional expenses to consider.

Understanding the Double-Wide Price Spectrum

When pondering “how much is a double-wide mobile home,” a good starting point is the national average. According to industry reports, a new double-wide mobile home can range from $132,600 to $160,400, with the national sweet spot around $139,900. However, it’s crucial to remember that Florida’s housing market can present a slightly different picture.

Sunshine State Specifics: How Location Impacts Cost

Florida boasts diverse landscapes, from bustling coastal cities to laid-back rural areas. This diversity extends to the cost of double-wide mobile homes. Here’s a breakdown of how location can affect the price tag:
- Metropolitan Areas: Places like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa Bay have higher costs for double-wide mobile homes. The increased land value and demand in these areas can increase prices. Expect prices in these locations to be closer to the national high-end, potentially reaching $160,400 or even exceeding it slightly, depending on features and size.
- Suburban and Rural Areas: Prices tend to dip as you move away from major cities. In suburban and rural areas, you might find double-wide mobile homes within the $132,600 to $145,000 range. This price range reflects a more balanced land cost and can be a good option for those seeking affordability.
Beyond the Home: Additional Costs to Factor In

While the base price of the double-wide mobile home is a significant factor, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional expenses to consider when calculating the total cost:
- Land: Unless you own land, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing a lot suitable for a mobile home. Prices can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities the mobile home park offers. In prime locations, land costs $50,000, while in more rural areas, it could be as low as $10,000.
- Transportation and Set-up: You must consider the cost of transporting the mobile home sections to your chosen location and setting them up on the foundation. Depending on the distance and complexity of the setup, this can range from $3,000 to $7,000.
- Permits and Inspections: Obtaining the necessary permits and inspections for placing your mobile home can add a few thousand dollars to the final cost. Be sure to factor this in while budgeting.
- Utility Connections: Connecting your mobile home to utilities like water, sewer, and electricity will incur additional costs. The exact amount will depend on the specific service providers and local regulations.
Beyond the Numbers: Features that Can Affect Price

The double-wide mobile home’s size, features, and overall quality will significantly impact the price. Here’s a breakdown of some key factors:
- Size: Larger double-wide homes naturally cost more than smaller ones. The square footage of the home is a crucial factor to consider when comparing prices.
- Amenities: Homes with high-end finishes, upgraded appliances, or additional features like porches or garages will have a higher price tag.
- Manufacturer: Different manufacturers offer varying levels of quality and warranties. Homes from reputable brands known for their durability and craftsmanship might cost more but could be a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Navigating the Market: Tips for Finding the Right Deal

Now that you have a better understanding of “how much a double-wide mobile home” in Florida, here are some tips to find the best value for your money:
- Shop Around: Don’t settle on the first home you see. Explore different manufacturers, retailers, and mobile home parks to compare prices and features.
- Consider Pre-Owned: Pre-owned double-wide mobile homes offer a chance to save significantly on the upfront cost. However, factor in potential repairs and renovations that might be necessary. A thorough inspection by a qualified professional is crucial before finalizing a purchase of a pre-owned mobile home.
- Negotiate: Feel free to negotiate the price with the seller, especially for pre-owned homes. Research the market value of similar homes to strengthen your bargaining position.
Financing Your Dream: Exploring Loan Options

Financing a double-wide mobile home in Florida is possible through various loan options. Here are some key considerations:
- FHA Loans: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers loans for manufactured homes, making them a popular buyer choice. These loans typically require a lower down payment compared to traditional mortgages.
- Chattel Loans: Chattel loans treat mobile homes as personal property, similar to car loans. The terms are generally shorter than FHA loans, and the interest rates can be higher.
- VA Loans: Veterans may qualify for VA loans with favorable terms for purchasing manufactured homes. These loans often require no down payment and offer competitive interest rates.
The Final Word: Owning Your Piece of the Sunshine State

By understanding the cost factors and exploring financing options, you can confidently approach the question of “how much is a double-wide mobile home” in Florida. Double-wide mobile homes offer a comfortable and affordable living solution for many Floridians. With careful planning and budgeting, you can turn your dream of owning a piece of paradise into a reality.

Additional Considerations
- Maintenance Costs: Like any home, double-wide mobile homes require regular maintenance. Factor in the cost of routine maintenance and repairs as part of your long-term budget.
- Community Fees: Living in a mobile home park often involves monthly fees that cover amenities like trash collection, common area maintenance, and sometimes even utilities. Research the specific fees associated with your chosen mobile home park.
- Appreciation: Unlike traditional stick-built homes, double-wide mobile homes generally don’t appreciate value as much. However, they can still provide a comfortable and affordable living option, especially for fixed-income people.
By carefully considering all these aspects, you can decide whether a double-wide mobile home is the right fit for your Florida dream. Soaking up the sunshine, enjoying the beaches, and living comfortably in your own space – a double-wide mobile home in Florida can be a gateway to a fulfilling lifestyle.

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April 9, 2024
What Brings A Sarasota Florida Mobile Home Seller The Most Money?
When looking to sell your Sarasota Florida mobile home it is in every seller’s best interest to ask themselves the basic question of, what will bring them the most money when they go to sell their mobile home.

Mobile Home in Florida

Many times the question then gets directed to two different types of thoughts:
- Will The Mobile Home Seller Get The Most Money If They Sell At A Higher Price?
- Will The Mobile Home Seller Get The Most Money If They Sell Faster?
Essentially, is the Seller going to benefit most if they are the tortoise and wait for the right Buyer or will they do the best they can if they move more like the hare and take the first offer that comes to them?

The answer to this basic question is that the mobile home Seller wants to act like both the tortoise and the hare at the same time when selling their mobile home.

The reason for this nondirect answer is due to the fact that mobile homes on leased land require the owner of the property to pay a set amount of money each month to the mobile home park in the form of what is commonly referred to as lot rent.

This lot rent will cover several different bills all in one but, most commonly, the lot rent will cover the usage of the land the home is on, the water bill, the sewer bill, the lawn care, and usage of the park facilities.

Most mobile homes on leased land are cash transactions, meaning, that the Seller does not have an outstanding mortgage payment they are required to make each and every month for the ownership of the home home. They own the home outright in cash.

The lot rent will never be paid off, regardless of how long the owner lives in the park as this is a reoccurring utility-type bill that will never go away.

The reason why we bring this up to you, the reader, is that many times we, we at The Mobile Home Dealer, have seen that the Seller does not take into account their monthly carrying costs, such as their lot rent when deciding to sell their mobile home.

Many times these Sellers will price their home too high and continue to pay the lot rent each and every month as well as their electric bill, cable bill, yearly registration, and constant property upkeep when things go wrong and need to be repaired within their mobile home.

All of these ongoing bills seem to feel automatic to the Seller and they do not factor them in when pricing their home.

By not factoring these continued bills into the mix the Seller is setting themselves up for a lower net profit when their mobile home eventually does sell as they will need to calculate their monthly carrying costs throughout the entire time they were trying to sell their mobile home to get themselves the most accurate number.

So, to answer the original question on what brings the Sarasota mobile home sellers the most money, the answer is by selling your mobile home fast and avoiding paying monthly lot rent dues.

If you are looking to sell your Sarasota Florida mobile home fast, how do you do it?

Although this seems like a very detailed answer that needs to be given, the truth is it is not. In fact, selling your Sarasota Florida mobile home quickly can boil down to three specific factors, that, if followed, will get you top dollar for your home fast.

Now, I am not trying to eliminate the professional opinions of others in the space, but rather, I am trying to get give all of the readers of this blog a much better understanding of how to get their mobile home sold quickly without all the extra garbage that is out there on the internet discussing what to do and what not to do.

Sarasota Mobile Home

With that understanding, please take this as a guide of what we, at The Mobile Home Dealer, have seen on a repeated basis that, if followed correctly, will lead to you not only getting your Sarasota Florida mobile home sold fast but also for top dollar regardless of what the market is doing in your community or within the area your mobile home is located in.
- Price your mobile home correctly
- Mark your mobile home correctly
- Understand The Sales Process
Following these three basic steps will help you, the mobile home Seller, move your property quickly and for the most profit possible.

When looking to sell your mobile home we can not stress enough the importance of looking at not only what you are trying to sell the home for but also the costs that will add up should you not be able to sell it as fast as you would like. Not doing this will give you, the Seller, an inaccurate understanding of exactly how much you made on the sale of your mobile home.

The Mobile Home Dealer are licensed mobile home brokers in Sarasota Florida and the surrounding areas. We provide professional buy and/or sell assistance to our clients. If you have any questions, please contact us by clicking this link. You may also visit our Facebook Page and send us a message.

This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer and we help mobile home Buyers and Sellers get to a better place in life.

This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer and we help mobile home Buyers and Sellers get to a better place in life.

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January 29, 2024
Why Pricing Your Sarasota Mobile Home High Is A Bad Idea!
Why High Pricing A Mobile Home Is A Bad Idea. I got an idea!. We should price the home super high and then come down because we can always go down on price, but not up, right?

With the rising real estate market that we are all seeing throughout the country, it is natural to think that selling your Sarasota Florida mobile home is the right thing to do now in an attempt to cash in on all the Buyers looking to relocate to Florida.

While pending on the Seller’s situation, this may not be a bad idea, we at The Mobile Home Dealer stress that there are quite a few pitfalls with the idea of trying to sell your mobile home by yourself while commanding your own high price.

In this brief article, we will look to educate you, as a Seller, on why pricing your own mobile home at an extremely high price point and not being willing to negotiate on price is a bad idea

This is a common idea that I have Sellers come to me all the time and tell me that this is their plan, to price their home high in hopes that they will hit a home run with this price, but are willing to come down later.

Every time I hear this idea, I always go against it as I do not think this is a good plan to follow when trying to sell your mobile home quickly.

The reason why is that most mobile home Buyers are looking for a home that is affordable.

As we can all agree, the term affordable can mean different amounts of money to different people. What may be affordable to one person may not be affordable to the other.

One thing is for sure, though, the lower you price your home, the more people will find that price affordable.
Sarasota mobile home
With that thought in mind, I always suggest starting the pricing of your mobile home as competitively as possible in order to pull the most eyes to your property as fast as possible.

Price is a deciding factor for most Buyers in the mobile home space, not necessarily features of the home or even location.

If a Buyer can get a comparable home to yours at half the price down the street, then it will be a very difficult presentation for you as a Seller to try and explain why the Buyer should go ahead and pay twice as much for a very similar home like yours.

Many times Sellers expect to see retail pricing on their upgrades and will price their home according to what they paid for these upgrades regardless of when these were even done to the home.

As mentioned previously, in one of our other videos, much of the benefit of the home’s upgrades that have been done to your home should be paid to you in the form of actually enjoying the property when these upgrades were put into the home.

Overpricing Your Mobile Home

Pricing your home high will usually result in your home sitting on the market longer, while the Seller continues to pay lot rent, utilities, taxes, and all other carrying costs associated with owning that property. These continued monthly payments will eat into your profit even if you sell the home for a higher price.

When buying a mobile home on leased land in Florida a Buyer or Seller does not need to report the sales price of a home to anyone. Many times this leads to no comparative pricing in the area for a mobile home. With this lack of information, we often see Sellers who are trying to sell their mobile homes themselves look online for their own comps on similar properties. The problem we see here is that most Sellers will compare their mobile home on leased land to that of a single-family home. The main issue here is that the Seller is comparing apples to oranges because a mobile home on leased land in Florida is personal property and not real estate.

Following this pricing guideline, we continue to see mobile homes sit on the market for extended periods of time because the home is considerably overpriced.

We at The Mobile Home Dealer feel it is always best to price your home aggressively from the start and be willing to negotiate with the Buyer when they want to make an offer.

Making it easy to have the Buyer buy your home is the first step in getting your home sold fast.

Mobile home in Florida

By pricing your home at our below-market price from the start, you will garner more attention faster creating a quicker sales process.

Although selling your own mobile home is possible, there are more disadvantages and advantages. Here are some additional issues that you may run into if you choose to do it yourself.

You can lose money. According to statistics, mobile homes sold without a realtor are less than 15% compared to those sold by the agent. This is understandable because agents know what they are doing to maximize the price. The higher the price sold is the bigger their commission.

You can lose lots of time. You are losing time the moment you start the process. From posting online, researching where to post, doing the legal paperwork, and meeting with potential buyers, everything will be overwhelmingly time-consuming.

Paperwork. There is no need to explain here. Paperwork always means a headache especially if you are not an expert in this field.

Quality of buyers. Realtors know exactly what type of buyers your mobile home will attract. But by letting every interested party take a look at your home, you are not only losing a lot of time, but you are also wasting the time of quality buyers because you don’t know which is which. Realtors have contacts and a database of potential buyers.

At the end of the day, the money you lost by selling your mobile home yourself might be bigger than what you are supposed to pay the realtor, not to mention the time you lost.

This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer and we help mobile home Buyers and Sellers get to a better place in life!

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January 29, 2024
What Fees Are Paid At A Sarasota Mobile Home Closing?
Have you wondered what fees need to be paid for a mobile home purchase in Sarasota?

Anytime we work with Buyers who are looking to purchase a mobile home that we currently have a listing for, we always make sure they know exactly what it means when they say, “I’d like to make an offer.”

Mobile homes throughout the greater Sarasota Florida area are becoming popular not only for snowbirds, but also for people who are single and older, and even older couples who want to have a peaceful neighborhood.

We here at The Mobile Home Dealer continue to do our very best to deliver all of the most relevant information to you in the mobile home space and wanted to thank you for taking a few minutes to learn about what needs to happen for the sale of the mobile home to go through on leased land down here in the state of Florida.

When looking at buying a mobile home within the greater Sarasota Florida area that is located on leased land one needs to realize that the purchase, sale, and closing actions are different than that of a traditional single-family home.

The reason for this is that, in Florida, a mobile home that is sold on leased land is viewed as and taxed as personal property and not real estate.

What this means is that the purchase process is the same as buying a vehicle.

So, with this understanding, what are the fees to be paid when closing a mobile home sale in Sarasota Florida?

When purchasing a Sarasota mobile home, the actual purchase price of the home is only one of several expenses that will be incurred during the purchase process of that home.

We have found that many, if not most, mobile home Buyers are unaware that there are several additional fees to add to the total cost of a mobile home purchase.

If these fees are not paid at the time of closing, the sale of the home, will not be able to go through.

Country Lakes Palmetto Florida

For there to not be any confusion at the closing table, our company policy at The Mobile Home Dealer is one where we lay out all of the fees to the Buyer so that when they make an offer to purchase the home, they know exactly what they will be responsible for paying come closing day.

The first fee to be paid is the actual negotiated purchase price of the home. This price will be what the buyer is agreeing to pay the Seller for the purchase of the property.

In the state of Florida, the buyer is required to pay state, city, and sometimes county tax, on the entire purchase price of that mobile home. For homes bought in Sarasota, this equates to a 7% tax on the total purchase price of that home. In other counties, such as Charlotte County, a little further south, the county then imposes a 1% tax on top of the 7%, so the total tax is 8% that is owed on the purchase price. The Buyer will need to pay a title transfer fee, which takes the title of the mobile home from the current owner to that of the new owner.

Registration fees will need to be paid at closing by the Buyer as well. This fee ensures that the mobile home that has been purchased is correctly registered to the new owner in the state of Florida. Closing fees will also need to be paid at the time of closing by the Buyer to the licensed mobile home broker as well.

It is not uncommon for all of these additional fees to total, sometimes over $2,000, in addition to the price of the mobile home.

The Buyer of the mobile home must be very well versed in all of these additional fees that are associated with buying a mobile home within the state of Florida before making their offers.

Take note that It is also not uncommon for the mobile home Seller to still be in the home when the Buyer has been approved so, normally a 30-day close is reasonable for the Seller to be able to move their belongings from the property so that the Buyer can move in right away on the date of closing.

If the home is vacant and the park approval has been completed then there would be no reason why the Buyer of the mobile home would not be able to move into their new home right after signing the purchase paperwork!

If the Seller is looking to have an elongated closing, greater than the traditional 30 days, then this will need to be further negotiated during the sale of the home. We would caution all Sellers, however, that if this is the case you may want to reconsider putting your mobile home on the market to sell until you are within the 30-day window of being able to move out of the property. The reason for this is that since mobile home sales can move so quickly when they are located on leased land most Buyers do not want to wait an extended period to move in is enjoy their new Sarasota Florida lifestyle right away and they certainly may walk away from buying your home.

Knowing these things can avoid unforeseen issues for both the buyer and the seller that could result in breaking the deal. It is always important that both the buyer and the seller agree on everything before closing the sale and signing the papers.

With a solid understanding of these additional fees needing to be paid, they will help both the Buyer and the Seller so that the purchase does not fall apart at the closing table due to a lack of funds.

This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer, and we help mobile home buyers and sellers get to a better place in life.

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January 29, 2024