Understanding the Sarasota Mobile Home Park Application Process
The often confusing and rarely explained Sarasota, Florida mobile home park application is a key requirement that every mobile home buyer must complete and pass before being approved by the park. Approval is necessary to proceed with the purchase of a mobile home.
These lengthy and sometimes confusing applications can create frustration among buyers and sellers alike. To help clear things up, let’s take a closer look at how the process works — including how many people can be on one application, what information the park requires, and whether combined incomes are allowed to meet financial qualifications.
When working with a licensed mobile home broker in the Sarasota area, we at The Mobile Home Dealer require every buyer to be approved by the park before closing on a mobile home.
Why Park Approval Is Required Before Closing
This step is critical because if the buyer skips approval and waits until after the sale, serious issues can arise. If the park later denies their application, the buyer ends up owning a mobile home in a community where they are not legally permitted to live.
In such cases, the buyer would be forced to sell the home they just purchased or attempt to move it to another park or private land. Unfortunately, that is often not possible because most older mobile homes in the Sarasota area exceed the age limit for relocation permits.
This stressful scenario can easily be avoided if buyers complete and pass the park approval process before finalizing the purchase.
Completing the Park Application
When filling out the mobile home park application, every person who plans to live in the home must be listed. In most cases, parks allow up to two adults per home on the same application.
The park will usually consider the combined income of both applicants when determining financial eligibility. Most parks require applicants to have a gross income that is 3 to 4 times the monthly lot rent.
For example, if the lot rent is $500, the park generally wants to see a combined monthly income between $1,500 and $2,000 for all adult residents.
Typical Information Required by Mobile Home Parks
Most park offices require similar documentation and verification from each applicant:
- Reported Wages
- Credit Check
- Criminal Background Check
- Application Fee
- Copy of Photo Identification
Once all required information is submitted, the park manager or owner will begin reviewing the application for approval. Once approved, the buyer officially becomes a resident of the community and can move forward with confidence.
Important Factors to Consider Before Applying
Several additional factors influence park approval, and understanding them in advance can help prevent unnecessary complications.
Age Restrictions
Most mobile home parks in the Sarasota, Florida area cater to residents aged 45 and older. If you’re younger or part of a younger couple, it’s essential to check the park’s age requirements before applying or buying a home.
Children and Family Policies
Even if your mobile home has multiple bedrooms, many parks have strict no-children policies. Before purchasing, verify whether the park allows families with children. Regardless of your financial readiness, the park always has the final say on whether you and your family can reside there.
Pet Policies
While many Sarasota parks are pet-friendly, some have restrictions on size, breed, or the number of pets allowed. Always confirm the park’s pet policy and include your pets on the application to ensure compliance.
Extended Family Visits
Some homeowners, particularly retirees, may have children or relatives who visit frequently. Occasional visits are usually fine, but extended or repeated stays could create problems with park management. Always check the park’s guest and visitor policies before purchasing.
Final Thoughts on Sarasota Mobile Home Park Applications
When buying a mobile home in the Sarasota, Florida area, it’s crucial to understand and follow each park’s application and residency requirements. Doing so ensures a smooth transaction and helps you avoid ownership or residency issues later on.
This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer, where we help mobile home buyers and sellers get to a better place in life.
See Also:
- How Well Do Pictures Help Sell Your Sarasota Mobile Home?
- How Many Sarasota Mobile Homes Can You Buy In One Park?
- Has Covid-19 Affected Sarasota Mobile Home Sales?
- Should You Sell Your Sarasota Mobile Home During Snow Bird Season?
- When Is The Best Time To Buy A Sarasota Florida Mobile Home?