Mobile homes have become a popular residential option for a lot of people because they are typically more affordable compared to on-site built homes. Mobile homes even come with features and benefits that you might not find in on-site built homes. However, there are so many things you need to know about this kind of home before ownership. Such as, do you pay property taxes on a mobile home? We’ve included a few other FAQ in this article to help prospective and current mobile home owners.
Do you pay property taxes on a mobile home?
Yes and no. Yes, if you bought your mobile home after 1980. However, if you bought it before that, unless you have it converted to real property or place it on a permanent foundation, it will not be assessed for property taxes. It is important to note that mobile homes may be subject to licensing fees and personal property. Make sure to do your due diligence when researching the tax rate of mobile homes in your locality.
Can I get a manufactured home if I don’t have good credit?
In a nutshell, yes. You will be happy to know that owning a manufactured home can improve your credit. Most lenders are willing to work with people who have bad credit or are low income, so you do not need to shy away from getting your own home simply because of your credit score.
Can a mobile home be listed as property?
Property appraisers determine whether mobile homes list as property depending on the ownership of the land, the ownership of the mobile home and whether it is connected to utilities and tied down.
If listed as real property, do I still have to pay the annual license tax?
No, you don’t. Once you list your mobile home as real property, the only thing you will have to pay is the real property tax and a fee to get an RP sticker. You purchase the sticker once, and if you bought the mobile home together with the land from another person, they might have bought the label already. In that case, you will not need a new one unless the old one is not visible in your home. If you purchase the mobile home from another county and move it to your property, you will need to get a new RP sticker because that one will not apply in your county.
Can mobile homes appreciate or gain value?
Although mobile homes typically depreciate. There are times when they can appreciate in value. However, numerous variables play into that appreciation. You should think of the location for example. A mobile home in a prime location will gain value rather than depreciate. A well-maintained mobile home will also appreciate or at the very least retain its value. Some people sell their mobile homes for more than they initially paid for them.
Is it true that mobile homes are more prone to fire?
Not really, no. A national fire study carried out found that on-site built homes are more likely to catch fire than mobile homes. Of course, you should still make sure to take the same fire cautions you would in an on-site built home.
How energy efficient are mobile homes?
Manufactured homes are very energy efficient because of building regulations in place. The US Department of Housing requires that all mobile homes meet the minimum HUD insulation standards. The rules require installing high advanced ventilation systems to maintain healthy air quality in the homes. Some of these manufacturers are partners with the Energy Star program and strictly follow program guidelines.
How mobile are mobile homes?
Mobile homes are not as mobile as the name makes them sound. Moving a mobile home can be quite the task and expensive. You see, mobile homes can be placed on a leased lot or permanently situated on an estate. Of course, if it was necessary, it is possible to move it, unlike on-site built homes. However, this is not the same thing as an RV where you just drive it away.
Is a mobile home right for you?
We hoped that we answered all of your questions, including whether you pay property taxes on a mobile home. Before you purchase a mobile home, it’s important that you thoroughly research whether it is a housing option that will fit your lifestyle. If not covered here, you can always ask a specific question, and we will be happy to get an answer for you.
About Dan Leighton
