Legal Steps to Sell a Manufactured Home in Utah

Selling a manufactured (mobile) home in Utah comes with unique legal steps—especially if it is located in a mobile home park. Understanding the laws and your rights is key to a smooth sale. This guide outlines the specific actions you need to take, which government forms to file, and where to get support under current Utah law. Even if you are a renter considering selling, these steps will help protect your interests.

Understanding Ownership: Land vs. Home

First, confirm whether you own the land under your home or simply the home itself. Many Utah renters only own the manufactured home but rent the land (a lot) within a mobile home park. This distinction affects your selling process.

• If you only own the home: You can sell the manufactured home itself, but the buyer will need approval from the park owner to keep it on the lot.
• If you also own the land: The sale is more like a traditional real estate sale and may involve additional legal steps.

Steps for Selling Your Manufactured Home in a Utah Park

If your home is on rented land in a park, Utah law provides protections for both sellers and buyers. Below are the key legal steps and official requirements.

1. Notify the Park Management

• Utah law requires you to notify the park (landlord) in writing when you intend to sell your home and if the buyer wishes to keep it in the same park. This allows the landlord to review the buyer's application and approve or deny tenancy based on park rules.
• No official government form is required, but written notice is critical. Include your intent to sell, prospective buyer’s information, and home details. Keep a copy for your records.

2. Title Transfer—Utah Manufactured Home Certificate of Title

• You must transfer the “Certificate of Title” for the home to the new owner. This is handled through the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• Form Name: Application for Utah Title (Form TC-656)
• When to use: When transferring ownership of the manufactured home, whether staying in the park or being moved. The seller (current owner) and buyer must complete the form for the title transfer.
• Download Application for Utah Title (Form TC-656)
• Practical example: As a renter selling your mobile home, you and the buyer must fill out TC-656 and submit it to your local DMV office, along with the current Certificate of Title and bill of sale.

3. Bill of Sale

• Although not required by law, a bill of sale is highly recommended to document the transaction.
• The Utah DMV offers a template: Bill of Sale (Form TC-843).
• Complete this with the buyer for added protection.

4. Park Approval for New Owner

• The buyer often needs written approval from the park owner to keep the home in place. This involves a credit/background check and agreement to park rules.
• If denied, the buyer will usually have to move the home. Utah law (Utah Mobile Home Park Residency Act, Title 57, Chapter 16) protects your right to sell your home, but buyers must still qualify for the park.

5. Notify Utilities and Complete Final Payments

• Arrange for final meter readings and transfer accounts with relevant utility companies before the buyer takes possession.
• Both parties should confirm any park fees or taxes are settled.

Official Tribunal Handling Tenancy Disputes

In Utah, renters and mobile home park residents can seek dispute resolution in district court. For landlord-tenant issues, including those related to manufactured homes, the Utah State Courts handle these matters.

Important Tips for Utah Renters Selling Manufactured Homes

• Put all agreements in writing: Notify park management and document all correspondence.
• Confirm buyer approval: Ensure the new owner is approved to rent the lot before finalizing the sale, unless the home will be moved.
• Complete all forms: Do not skip the title transfer—failure to do so could leave you legally responsible for the home.

Relevant Utah Tenancy Legislation

The Utah Mobile Home Park Residency Act outlines protections and responsibilities for mobile home owners and park landlords, including your rights to sell and the approval process for new park residents.^[1]

FAQs: Selling Your Manufactured Home in Utah

1. Do I need park approval to sell my manufactured home in Utah?
   Yes, if the home is to remain in the park, your buyer must apply for park residency approval, per Utah law.
2. Which forms are mandatory for transferring ownership?
   The Application for Utah Title (TC-656) is required for changing the title. A bill of sale (TC-843) is recommended.
3. What happens if the park denies my buyer?
   If the buyer is denied, they may need to remove the home from the park. The sale can still occur, but relocation is required.
4. Who handles disputes about the sale or park approval?
   The Utah State Courts (usually district court) manage landlord-tenant disputes, including issues with selling manufactured homes.
5. Am I responsible for unpaid lot rent after selling?
   You remain liable for rent and other fees until ownership is officially transferred and you have moved out, per your lease agreement.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Utah Manufactured Home Sellers

• Provide park management with written notice of your intent to sell.
• Use official Utah DMV forms to transfer ownership.
• Ensure prospective buyers obtain park approval before finalizing the sale.

By following these legal steps and using the right government resources, Utah renters can protect themselves and ensure a smooth mobile home sale process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah DMV – Manufactured Home Titles
• Read the Utah Mobile Home Park Residency Act
• Utah State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self Help
• Utah Legal Services – Housing Help

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1. Utah Mobile Home Park Residency Act – Title 57, Chapter 16, Utah Code
2. Utah Division of Motor Vehicles – Manufactured/Mobile Home Titles
3. Utah State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Information
4. Utah DMV Application for Utah Title (TC-656)
5. Utah DMV Bill of Sale (TC-843)

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