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Apr 21 2019

Mobile Home Repossession Laws in Texas

I’ve compiled a short list of resources to help sellers with debt, foreclosure, or repossession issues. All of these are available in the state of Texas.  I’m always available to answer any questions you might have about selling your mobile home. There are plenty of options and nontraditional alternatives to putting a for sale sign in your yard.

In the state of Texas, mobile home repossession laws are tricky. Consider the fact that Texas law allows for mobile homes to be considered real property when tied to land or personal property.

Helpful websites for distressed mobile home owners:

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)

https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/

 

Texas Manufactured Housing Standards Act (TDHCA)

https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/mh/docs/standards.pdf

 

Manufactured housing federal and state laws and rules (TDHCA)

https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/mh/laws-rules.htm

 

Manufactured homes financial regulations

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FI/htm/FI.347.htm

Voluntary Surrender of Mobile Home

Voluntary surrender is a formal legal arrangement whereby you sign over the ownership of your mobile home to your lender so that it can be sold. Simply leaving the property and the keys do not count as a formal surrender. If you do not formally transfer ownership of the property, you still owe the mortgage, along with any arrears that build up over time.

If you opt for voluntary surrender, the lender will prepare a legal agreement to cover the proposed arrangement. Again, you will need to take legal advice before signing any such agreement. In general, the agreement will cover such matters as:

  • Transferring the ownership of your home to the lender
  • Who will cover the legal costs of the sale, or whether you will split them with the lender
  • When you will have to move out
  • How any shortfall from the sale will be handled

Free credit counseling and credit repair

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0153-choosing-credit-counselor

http://www.experian.com/credit-education/credit-repair.html

Unable to pay your property taxes?

http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/about.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/travis_county_assistance_progr.html

Need help with paying your utilities?

Austin Energy – A charity type program known as Financial Support Plus 1 is available for City of Austin utility customers. The program helps customers who are having financial difficulties and who are unable to pay their utility bill due to an unexpected emergency or crisis. The emergency utility assistance funding is distributed through 24 local non-profits and community assistance groups such as Travis County Family Support Services. Contact (512) 494-9400 for a list of agencies.

Austin Energy – A program offered is the Customer Assistance Discount Program. It offers about $54 in monthly discounts off a customer’s City of Austin utility bill. To qualify for these savings, the account holder or someone in the customer’s household needs to be currently participating in any one of these assistance programs: Medicaid, Telephone Lifeline Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) also known as Food Stamps, or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Call 512-494-9400 for an application.

Austin Energy – Customers can take advantage of some of the most comprehensive and effective energy efficiency programs in the nation. Some of these programs offered include Free Thermostats, Home Performance with ENERGY STAR(tm) Rebates and Loans, Free Home Improvements, Solar Photovoltaics, and Residential Refrigerator Recycling. Call (512) 974-7827 to get additional information about the many energy efficiencies and conservation services offered through Austin Energy.

Austin Housing Authority

Get information and apply for the Texas Section 8 program. Low-income families and individuals can receive rent and housing assistance from the federal government funded Texas Housing Choice Voucher program, more commonly known as Section 8.

Travis County

Low Rent and Section 8, Code: TX480
502 E Highland Mall Blvd
Austin, TX 78752
Phone: (512) 480-8245 Fax: (512) 480-8248

Stop The Repossession or Foreclosure of a Mobile Home

So if you’ve reached the point where you need to sell your mobile home, the prudent move is to contact an expert such as EZ Mobile Home Buyer to guide you through the complicated and time-consuming process.

EZ Mobile Home Buyer is the perfect option for getting out from under your mobile home financial obligation without the back-breaking and time-zapping work it will take to sell.

In addition, if your facing foreclosure or repossession, the fine folks at EZ Mobile Home Buyer understand the mobile home repossession laws in Texas, so they can assist you throughout the process.

At EZ Mobile Home Buyer, our job is to handle every step of the process from the moment you contact us to the moment you receive the money for your mobile home.

Our process is quick and simple. We understand your time is valuable, so if needed, we can come to you. We’ll check out your mobile home, regardless of the shape it’s in, and start the paperwork immediately.

Written by EZ Buyer · Categorized: Education

Mar 02 2019

How Much Does it Cost to Move a Mobile Home

There are many costs associated with homeownership, but a cost unique to manufactured homes is the price of moving it. Not only is it an additional cost, but it’s also quite the undertaking. (As you can imagine, moving something as heavy as a home isn’t an easy task!)

Both the cost and difficulty in moving the home may influence your buying decision. Read on to learn how this cost breaks down and what steps to take if you decide to move your mobile home.

Associated Costs

There are numerous factors that influence the cost of moving a mobile home. You’ll need to reach out to moving companies to determine what they would charge, as costs will vary between companies. Below are some of the most common factors:

Distance to Travel 

As you can imagine, the further you need to move a mobile home, the more it’s going to cost. Speak with various moving companies as their pricing will differ.

In addition to distance, you’ll also need to make sure the roads you’ll be traveling can accommodate the size of your home. You’ll need to secure permits for any states you enter, including the state the home is currently located. Some states also require an inspection of the mobile home before it’s moved to ensure it’s up-to-code. Luckily, most moving companies will handle this paperwork for you. When you’re looking for a company to work with, make sure you ask if they cover this portion of the process.

Size of Home 

Smaller mobile homes are easier and less expensive to move than larger mobile homes. And typically the larger the home, the heavier it is, which also increases the cost. It’s possible to transport a mobile home in multiple pieces, but this will add to the price of transport. Keep this in mind when deciding whether or not you want to move your home.

Home’s Foundation 

The home’s foundation influences the difficulty of moving the home, and with increased difficulty comes increased cost. A home with a slab foundation is less expensive to move than a home with a block foundation.

Tip: Don’t go with the first moving company you reach out to. Get numerous quotes—it could save you a lot of money!

Keep in mind: Movers will likely charge a cost for setting up your mobile home in its new location. This includes placing it on a new foundation and securing it, as well as hooking up your utilities.

A Couple Considerations Before Moving Your Mobile Home

Cost is a big factor to consider when thinking about moving your mobile home. The following are also important things to keep in mind:

Can My Home Be Moved?

Before even considering moving your home, you should know whether it can physically be moved or not! The older your home, the more likely it is that it won’t withstand the rough and tumble process of transporting it. Be transparent with moving companies about the condition of your home. They will know whether it’s in a condition that allows it to be moved.

HUD Considerations

The HUD code divides the United States into three different zones with their own unique requirements depending on the area’s climate and location, For example, a mobile home in Minnesota has different requirements than a home in Florida. Look into your state’s requirements along with the requirements of the state you plan to move to. If your mobile home doesn’t meet the requirements of your new state, don’t plan to move it.  Instead, think about selling it “As Is” to a local investor.

If you’re moving to a mobile home park, there shouldn’t be any zoning issues. But if you’re planning to move your mobile home to land that you own, check local zoning laws. Different cities have different requirements for homes based on age and size.

So should you move a mobile home? The costs can add up quickly, and oftentimes it doesn’t make financial sense to do so. But some families have sentimental reasons or other considerations that make the move justifiable. Do your research and determine whether moving

your mobile home is the right decision for you.

If you decide you don’t want to move your mobile home, EZ Mobile Home Buyer will buy your mobile home as-is in its current location. You can use that cash to buy a new mobile home in a new location that’s just right for you.

Don’t worry, you have options.  We buy mobile homes in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio on a monthly basis so that you can sell your home in a timely manner.

Written by EZ Buyer · Categorized: Education

Feb 18 2019

Is It Hard To Sell A Manufactured Home

Selling a mobile home isn’t an easy process, but how difficult is it? Although probably not the answer you were looking for: it depends. There are many factors that influence the difficulty of selling your home, including the following:

● Selling your mobile home as personal property
● Selling your mobile home as real estate
● The condition of your mobile home
● The location of your mobile home
● Meeting safety requirements
● Selling your mobile home on your own
● Selling your mobile home with a real estate agent
● Selling your mobile home to a mobile home retailer

Selling Your Mobile Home as Personal Property

Those who own a mobile home but not the land are likely living in a mobile home park. When selling your home, the park owner will need to be involved as they have a major say in who you can sell your home too. In addition, the owner has the right to the first refusal, meaning they have the right to buy your home by matching the price a prospective buyer has offered. If they don’t exercise this right, you’ll need to ensure that your buyer is capable of meeting the rules and regulations of the mobile home park.

Selling Your Mobile Home as Real Estate

When the sale of your mobile home comes with land, you don’t have the added burden of ensuring the next owner meets the rules and regulations of a mobile home park. However, the process is more difficult than selling your home when it falls under personal property.

The Condition of Your Mobile Home

Many buyers aren’t looking for a project when purchasing a home. Dilapidated kitchens, poor insulation, and drooping ceilings are not a warm welcome for potential buyers. There are buyers who enjoy a challenge, but their offer on your home will reflect the work they’ll need to put in it.

The Location of Your Mobile Home

If your home comes with the land beneath it, your home’s value will increase—but so will the difficulty of selling it.  Location can make it easier to sell your home if buyers are attracted to your location. Are you beachfront? In an up-and-coming area of town? You’ll likely not have as much difficulty securing a buyer than someone in a less desirable area.

Meeting Safety Requirements

It’s important to note the year your home was built. Homes made prior to 1976 may not meet the safety and quality standards that the current Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code requires. The code was established in 1976 and revisions were made in 1997 as well as 1999.

Homes built between 1976 and 1999 may not meet current standards, and this will make it harder to find a buyer for your home. Read more about the HUD code here.

Selling Your Mobile Home On Your Own

Be prepared to take on all the work a realtor would normally be assigned. When it comes to paperwork and advertising your mobile home, that will be up to you. It’s completely possible to sell your mobile home on your own, you’ll just need to put in the extra legwork.

Selling Your Mobile Home With a Real Estate Agent

A realtor has experience selling and buying homes and can guide you through the process. You won’t need to advertise your home, network with other agents, or coordinate paperwork. But just like when selling your home on your own, there’s no guaranteed date when your home will sell.  It could take weeks or it could take months.

Selling Your Mobile Home to a Mobile Home Retailer

This is, by far, the fastest and simplest guaranteed way to sell your mobile home. EZ Mobile Home Buyer will purchase your home in its current condition wherever you’re located. You’ll receive an all-cash offer with no financing contingency, and EZ Mobile Home Buyer will close the sale within two to three days.

Worried about all the paperwork involved with selling a mobile home? Don’t be. EZ Mobile Home Buyer will handle all the paperwork on your behalf. And if you’re living in a mobile home park, EZ Mobile Home Buyer will communicate with your park owner to streamline the process and make things simpler for you.

We buy mobile homes in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio on a monthly basis so that you can sell your home in a timely manner.

Written by EZ Buyer · Categorized: Education, Home Sale

Feb 11 2019

How To Determine The Value Of My Mobile Home

One of the first steps when selling your mobile home is to learn what it’s worth. You can estimate your home’s value on your own, do an online appraisal, or have an in-person appraisal done. Whatever method you choose, there are four major factors to consider when calculating your home’s value: mobile home condition, type, location, and depreciation.

1) Mobile Home Condition
Just like with anything you try to sell, the better the condition it’s in, the more money it’s worth.  Walls with chipping paint, dinged-up doors, and stained carpet can all affect your home’s worth.  Even making simple repairs and giving the walls fresh paint can increase the value. And just like with single-family homes and other real estate, the condition of your neighborhood and your neighbors’ homes also affect your mobile home’s worth.

2) Mobile Home Type
There are three types of mobile homes: single-wide, double-wide, and multi-wide. These types increase in cost as they increase in size, meaning a single-wide costs the least and a doublewide costs the most.

3) Mobile Home Location
The biggest factor concerning value is the land beneath your mobile home. Do you own it? Your home will likely be worth much more if you do. Is that land in a popular area? Is it right on the water? Factors like this can increase your home’s value. If you don’t own the land, consider your surroundings. Are you in a desirable area? If you live in a mobile home park, what is the condition of the park? Are there amenities that may increase your home’s value?

4) Mobile Home Depreciation
Unfortunately, just like with vehicles, mobile homes depreciate in value over time. Typically your home will depreciate around 3% to 3.5% each year. But keep in mind if you’ve made significant upgrades to your mobile home—it may offset the rate of depreciation or at least lessen the percentage of decreased value.

It’s also important to note the year your home was built. Homes made prior to 1976 may not meet the safety and quality standards that the current Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code requires. The code was established in 1976 and revisions were made in 1997 as well as
1999. Homes built between 1976 and 1999 may not meet current standards, and this will affect the value of your home. Read more about the HUD code here.

Appraisal
Although you can estimate your home’s value, you can also pay to get an online appraisal or have a professional appraisal done in person. The latter is more expensive but may be more thorough. Investigate your options and choose the one that’s right for you.

Online Appraisal—NADA
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) is the largest publisher of vehicle pricing, including recreational vehicles and manufactured homes. Here you can to get an online appraisal for the book value of your home ranging from $26 to $50, depending on the type of appraisal you choose.

Professional Appraisal
Contact a local real estate agent with experience in manufactured homes to get a professional appraisal. Look for someone with a state appraiser license or a manufactured home appraisal certification if possible.

Selling Your Home to EZ Mobile Home Buyer

EZ Mobile Home Buyer will visit your home and do a personal walkthrough. Based on the age, size, and condition of your home, EZ Mobile Home Buyer will make you an offer.

Now that you know how much your mobile home is worth, check out one of our local Texas offices’.  We buy mobile homes in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio on a monthly basis so that you can sell your home in a timely manner.

Written by EZ Buyer · Categorized: Education, Real Estate

Dec 28 2018

Documents Needed To Sell A Mobile Home

The requirements for the sale of your mobile will depend on the state you live in, but typically mobile home sales fall under the category of motor vehicles if your home is on land you do not own. Luckily, this means the sale will be relatively painless! Check with your state to determine the specific legal forms you’ll need.

The Process of Selling Your Mobile Home

Congratulations, you’ve found a prospective buyer for your mobile home! Follow these three easy steps to finalize the sale.

1. Come to a Price Agreement
First things first, you and your buyer will need to come to an agreement on the cost of your mobile home. Check out this article on determining the value of your home. (Link to How Much is My Mobile Home Worth blog post.) Your buyer may try and negotiate the
price so be prepared with an accurate valuation you can back up.

2. Inspection
The buyer will more than likely require that a home inspection happens and that the sale is contingent upon your home passing the inspection. Inspections cover the condition of the home’s heating and cooling system, the hot water tank, plumbing and electrical
systems, and structural components like the walls, roof, and siding. If there are major issues with your home, the buyer may ask that you fix the problem or take the cost of fixing it off the price of the home.

3. Closing Date
You’re almost there! Now it’s time to pick a closing date. At the closing, you and the buyer will sign the bill of sale and you’ll transfer the title over to the new owner. You’ll also receive payment from the buyer!

Types of Forms Required to Sell Your Mobile Home

Title
Depending on your state, you’ll need to get a mobile home title issued by your motor vehicle department. Just like you would with the sale of a vehicle, both you and your buyer will sign the title. The buyer will then register it under their name at the motor vehicle department.

Proof of Taxes
Your buyer may request proof that you’ve paid your property taxes prior to purchase. Gather this documentation before showing your home so you’re prepared.

Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is the proof that you’ve sold your mobile home to someone else. You and the buyer will need to sign this document and have it notarized.

Certificate of Occupancy
A certificate of occupancy is issued by your local government agency or building department and certifies that said building is in compliance with building codes, making it suitable for occupancy. This may or may not be required, depending on where you live, so make sure to
check with your state.

Fire Safety Inspection
Many states require periodic fire safety inspections of mobile parks and their homes. To make sure you’re prepared in case it’s asked of you, collect your fire safety inspection documents prior to listing your home.

Home Inspection
Although not necessary for the sale of your mobile home, a home inspection may improve your chance of selling and make a sale happen quicker than without one. It’s a small investment with a possible big payoff!

Mobile Park Rules
If selling your mobile home that sits in a mobile home park, you’ll need to follow your park’s rules and regulations for mobile home sales. Contact your owner prior to selling your home to make sure you’re aware of what is required.

Simplify the Mobile Home Selling Process

Life is busy and life gets complicated. EZ Mobile Home Buyer gets it. That’s why they’ll handle all of the paperwork so you don’t have to. Plus they provide all-cash offers with no financing contingency and close the sale within two to three days. Quickly and easily sell your mobile
home so you can move on to life’s next thing.

Don’t worry, you have options.  We buy mobile homes in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio on a monthly basis so that you can sell your home in a timely manner.

Written by EZ Buyer · Categorized: Education, Home Sale

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  • How To Determine The Value Of My Mobile Home
  • Documents Needed To Sell A Mobile Home
  • How To Sell A Mobile Home Fast
  • Is It Hard To Sell A Manufactured Home
  • How to stop foreclosure
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EZ Mobile Home Buyer
6400 McNeil Dr. Suite 200
Austin, TX 78729
Call Us 512-377-1196
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