Florida’s thriving housing market includes a wide range of property types — from luxury estates to affordable manufactured homes. However, when it comes to mobile homes, a common question arises: can real estate agents sell mobile homes in Florida?
The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. It depends on how the home is classified — as real property or personal property — and whether the land beneath it is owned or leased. Understanding this distinction is key to determining who is legally allowed to handle the sale of a mobile home in the Sunshine State.
Understanding How Mobile Homes Are Classified in Florida
In Florida, mobile homes are generally categorized as personal property, not real estate. This classification stems from the fact that many mobile homes sit on leased land within mobile home parks, meaning they aren’t permanently affixed to the ground.
Traditional homes, on the other hand, are considered real property because they’re built on permanent foundations and become part of the land itself. This difference has major implications for real estate professionals.
Real estate agents are licensed to handle real property transactions — sales that involve land ownership. However, since mobile homes are often personal property (similar to vehicles), selling them requires a different type of licensing in many cases.
So, while some real estate agents in Florida can sell mobile homes under certain conditions, others may not be legally authorized unless they hold additional licenses or work with the right kind of property.
When Real Estate Agents Can Sell Mobile Homes in Florida
There are scenarios where real estate agents can indeed sell mobile homes — particularly when the home and the land are sold together. Here’s how it works:
- If the land is owned: When the mobile home is permanently attached to owned land, it is considered real property. In this case, a licensed Florida real estate agent can legally handle the sale just like any other home transaction.
- Leveraging Real Estate Expertise: Real estate agents bring valuable skills to the table — from marketing and negotiations to contract management. Their understanding of the Florida housing market helps streamline the sale process and attract qualified buyers.
- Access to MLS (Multiple Listing Service): Agents can list the home on the MLS, exposing it to a larger pool of potential buyers. This visibility often leads to faster sales and better pricing outcomes.
- Specialized Agents: Some licensed agents focus specifically on mobile home sales. They understand the nuances of these transactions, including financing options and community regulations.
In these cases, hiring a real estate agent can make the process smoother and more efficient, especially for first-time sellers or out-of-state owners.
When Real Estate Agents Cannot Sell Mobile Homes
If the mobile home is located on leased land — as is common in mobile home parks — it’s typically classified as personal property. In this situation, only professionals licensed as mobile home dealers or brokers are authorized to facilitate the sale.
Here’s why this distinction matters:
- Licensing Requirements: Real estate licenses in Florida cover real property transactions, not personal property. Mobile home brokers and dealers, licensed through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), are required to handle these sales legally.
- Market Differences: The mobile home market operates differently from traditional real estate. Financing, appraisals, and ownership transfers involve unique processes that traditional agents may not be familiar with.
- Specialization: Many real estate agents focus exclusively on stick-built homes. Without mobile home sales experience, they might struggle with pricing, marketing, or compliance issues specific to manufactured housing.
In short, if your mobile home is not attached to owned land, you’ll likely need to work with a licensed mobile home dealer rather than a real estate agent.
So, Who Should You Work With?
The right professional depends on your specific situation. If your mobile home sits on owned land, a licensed real estate agent is the right choice. However, if it’s located in a mobile home park with leased land, a mobile home dealer or broker will be better equipped to manage the sale.
Key Considerations Before Choosing an Agent or Broker
- Experience in Mobile Home Sales: Whether you choose an agent or a dealer, make sure they have experience handling mobile home transactions in Florida. They should understand both the legal and logistical aspects of these sales.
- Costs and Commissions: Compare the costs of working with a real estate agent versus a mobile home dealer. While agents may charge standard commissions, some mobile home brokers offer flexible fee structures.
- Community Rules: If your mobile home is in a park, verify whether the management allows external agents or requires in-park dealers to handle sales.
- Marketing Reach: A real estate agent can list your home on the MLS, while mobile home brokers often rely on specialized online platforms and direct buyer networks. Consider which option will reach more potential buyers.
Ultimately, both professionals have their advantages, but choosing one that fits your specific property type will ensure a smoother, faster transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can real estate agents sell mobile homes in Florida?
Yes, but only if the mobile home is attached to owned land and classified as real property.
2. Do I need a special license to sell a mobile home in Florida?
If you’re selling a home on leased land, you need to work with a licensed mobile home dealer or broker.
3. Can I sell my mobile home myself?
Yes, but you must handle the paperwork, advertising, and negotiations. Working with a licensed professional often simplifies the process.
4. What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a mobile home dealer?
Agents handle real property sales, while mobile home dealers specialize in selling homes classified as personal property.
5. How do I know if my mobile home is considered real property?
If your home is permanently affixed to land you own and has a “real property” title, it qualifies as real estate.
6. Can real estate agents list mobile homes on the MLS?
Yes, agents can list mobile homes that qualify as real property on the MLS.
7. Who regulates mobile home sales in Florida?
Mobile home dealers and brokers are regulated by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
8. Do mobile homes appreciate in value?
Generally, mobile homes depreciate over time, although well-maintained homes in desirable communities can retain value.
9. Can I transfer ownership of a mobile home without an agent?
Yes, but you’ll need to process the title transfer through the Florida DMV, similar to a vehicle sale.
10. What is the best way to sell a mobile home quickly?
Work with a professional experienced in mobile home sales, price it competitively, and advertise through platforms where buyers are actively searching.
Final Thoughts
So, can real estate agents sell mobile homes in Florida? The answer depends on how your home is classified. If it’s on owned land and considered real property, a licensed real estate agent can handle the sale. However, if your mobile home is on leased land and classified as personal property, you’ll need a licensed mobile home dealer.
Bottom line: Understanding the difference between real and personal property is crucial. Choose a professional who knows Florida’s mobile home laws and has proven experience in this niche market. Whether you hire a real estate agent or a mobile home dealer, working with the right expert ensures a smoother, faster, and more compliant selling process.