Lost Mobile Home Titles | No Data Plate | No VIN | No HUD label

[@BaphometMerker]

I just purchased a mobile home built in 1979 , I have found no data plates inside the mobile home or outside I have yet to look for a vin number I am extremely worried because I did not have the knowledge before I watched your video which explained A LOT . I live in a community and am shy a week of just moving in. I signed paper work and only have proof of paying for the mobile home with the bills of sale I did not receive the title to the mobile home , the realtor told me that the title would be sent to the mailbox in a few weeks after purchasing the mobile home . Being as young and inexperienced as I am I believed the realtor and am still waiting on the title. I really hope I can find the vin number or something for more information on this mobile home. The reason I clicked on your video is because I was shopping for insurance and realized I did not even know the manufacturer of this mobile home and needed to know for mobile home insurance wish me the best of luck , your video gave me valuable knowledge sir.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

As for watching! Glad you clicked on the video. Most mobile home parks will not require to see your mobile homes title. However some definitely will. It sounds like you may have transferred money without actually transferring title from the seller to your ownership. However I may be wrong about this. To obtain insurance will likely need the VIN or serial number company, however many folks in communities do not even have insurance on their properties. Some parks will require this, however many will not. Then again insurance is idea as insurance does exist for a reason. I am not sure that this comment reply helps at all, however if you have any follow-up mobile home or VIN/serial number related questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime. Always happy to help if I can. Lastly, congratulations on the purchase. I really hope you like the home and the area will be in.

[@catherinemorgan9002]

Look by the power electrical panel ...in a closet

[@cynthianelson6528]

This was super helpful. I'm going to email you. Thanks!

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks Cynthia! Very glad to hear this was helpful. Moving forward any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@christopherknettel4505]

I was told by the DMV to file a lawsuit against the state. I spoke with the court house and I guess this is a common problem. Basically like with classic cars that don't have vin numbers. They have routes for them to file for new titles. Mobile homes even though they are real property they basically fall into a void where nobody knows what to do.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Christopher. Thank you so much for reaching out and connecting. It certainly sounds like you've been doing some research on your own and have been taken advantage of in some way. Each state handles this a bit differently, which is a bit dumb in my opinion. After talking with all of the states I can see that some states make it much easier in these varying title related situations, and other states make it nearly impossible. Like you said, in some states you have to file a lawsuit against the state. Then if you win you will get a judgment to tell the DMV to print you a new title. However there are likely other roadblocks as well. Thanks again for reaching out and connecting. Any follow-up mobile home questions or comments never hesitate to reach out.

[@DavidHenderson-v6u]

Thank you John

[@Moises-l3b]

I have looked everywhere and cant find a VIN # . I called the county and they gave me the address ,vin, year, make and size on witch i pay taxes every year Then i went to DMV with that vin and they told me that # does not show in their records. Its a 1972 and I've been living in it for around 8 years. I'm in Pennsylvania. What can i do?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you so much for reaching out and connecting. In today's video I mentioned to look for the VIN or serial number on a few locations on the mobile home itself. However if it is gone and you are not able to find it, then the only other possible way of locating this number is in some old paperwork that the seller may have, the park manager may possess (if located inside of a park) or potentially on the local tax collector's website or the legal description of the property. If it is not in any of this paperwork then that number may have been lost to time. For most folks it is crazy to think that this number can just vanish with time, however this is a good example of a situation like this happening. I am sorry that I am not able to give you a magic bullet answer that would solve the problem. However perhaps you are able to find it by contacting the owner or previous seller to see if they have any old registration or insurance paperwork on the home. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction.

[@mobilehomemovers]

Great info I'm rehabbing a double wide that the insurance company totaled little fire damage no data plate no title ....we'll see how it turns out

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Jason. Thanks for reaching out and connecting. Great job rehabbing this double wide. I hope it is coming along better than expected. If you have any follow-up mobile home questions never hesitate to reach out any time. All the best.

[@dianelorenz378]

Hello, Can you tell me if I need a vin number for my 1993 Liberty single wide mobile home to obtain the title? All I have is a serial number

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for reaching out. The VIN and serial number are often times used interchangeably. However sometimes they are two separate numbers in the state's record system. However with this serial number you should be able to track VIN if needed. Whether through the state's records, previous paperwork, or potentially calling the manufacturer to see if that information can be provided may be a way to move forward. Hope this helps some. Feel free to reach back out anytime with any follow-up questions.

[@michaelcummings1865]

Well done John,thanks !

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hey Michael! Thanks for commenting. Hope this will be helpful for you when you move locations. You will definitely be seeing these in your travels. Talk with you soon.

[@BeatrizSerrano-or6wr]

Hi I found your video very informative. I purchased a double wide in Virginia at a tax deed auction . I received a deed and there is nothing inside the home regarding a vin# . I’m trying to sell it and every one is asking for the vin#. I have two HUD metal labels on the side of the house. (I assume they’re HUD labels). They start with TEN can I request the vin# with the HUD label information?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for watching the video and commenting. Congratulations with regards to winning the auction and purchasing this double wide. It sounds like you are on the right track to achieve the VIN. I hope that you are able to get in touch with ITBS and they are helping you get the information you are looking for. Any follow-up questions you have never hesitate to reach out anytime. Hope this home works out for you better than expected.

[@vsolcarv]

So the metal Hud label is the vin? If so where can you go to find the rest of the information ( dimensions, year built,etc)?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for commenting. Actually, the number pressed into the small metal business card (HUD label) that can be found in the back corner of the mobile home is actually the HUD label number. This is the number that the Department of Housing and Urban Development have given this mobile home. It is not the VIN, but it is a number specific to this mobile home. You may be able to use the IBTS website provided to use the HUD label number in order to track down the Vin number or serial number. The Vin number or serial number is typically the number the state will use to keep track of your mobile home. The "data plate" is really not a plate at all. It is typically just a 8" x 11" sheet of paper glued to the wall somewhere in the mobile home. Because it is just a typical piece of paper that is glued to the wall, it can be removed, taken down, or painted over by a resident or homeowner. This data plate will have a lot more information of the mobile home you are looking for on it, however if this is gone that you may have to use other information to talk directly to the state and asked them the dimensions and year built. Keep in mind that the dimensions you can simply measure yourself, but the year built typically need to be found on some type of older paperwork or received directly from the state. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction. Any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@budjeepman]

I own a manufactured doublewide home and I am trying to sell it. I have the HUD labels that are attached to the rear corner of both sections of the doublewide. The wheels, axles and tongue were removed when the home was placed on the property and attached to a permanent foundation to make it a real property home. I cant locate the VIN label. It may be on the frame but there is a brick skirting completely around the home hiding the frame. The lender ( VA Loan) requires a VIN number. What do I do to complete the sale?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you so much for reaching out and connecting. Please watch this video in full and you will hear about me talking about an IBTS website. This website should provide you with the VIN for the mobile home as long as you are able to provide the hud label numbers. I hope that this answer helps you and points you in the right direction. Sorry for the delay in this comment reply. If you have any follow up mobile home questions please never hesitate to reach out any time.

[@Mommylady4]

I am trying to buy a home. We have the vin numbers for both sides. IBTS cannot find HUD plate information but was able to verify data label information for it. We have found documentation going all the way back to installation with the county verifying the VINs, but the HUD plate information is not anywhere to be found. It was even previously a VA loan. We also have a second set of numbers in the frame just above the serial number. Can you give me any idea of where to go next or what the second set of numbers is?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Additionally, thank you for the detailed comment as this certainly does help me understand your situation a bit better. Typically the vehicle identification number is the more important number to possess. Typically with the vin you are able to track down all of the other information you may be looking for about the manufactured home, including the hud plate number. However, if this has been removed for some reason or stolen over the years, then you may be able to get a new hud label number directly from your state. In certain states this is the case. When you go to transfer the ownership from one person to another you can then purchase a new hud label in certain states. I would reach out to your state directly to see if you were able to get a new hud label given to your home. You may also be able to call up hud directly to ask them if they have a library of all of the hud numbers given to all of the manufactured homes in the last five decades or so. Keep in touch and please let us know what happens. I am not sure if this helps however I do hope that it points you in the right direction moving forward.

[@kylewhite1775]

I'm going through this currently after buying a mobile home a year ago. Long story short during closing I was told everything was real property and when the time comes file for the homestead tax exemption. So when I try to get that done the county couldn't fine the title and all the VINS on the closing paper work were partial and incomplete. After going back and fourth with the title company and finally presenting them information I found in my own digging that when they admitted there are no records. They offered to fix it but honestly it been months and I don't think they have any intention to .

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for commenting. I really regret to hear your situation. This definitely happens to folks all around the country. Real estate title companies and closing offices will almost always not look at, underwrite, insure any type of personal property. Additionally, it sounds as if everyone lied to you about this being real property in the first place. That is terrible that the title company simply tells you one thing and then does not complete it. From what it sounds like, there are no records of this VIN or serial number anywhere. If that is the case then it is unlikely that you will receive a title for this home. You may additionally want to talk to your states mobile home title transferring department. To explain the situation to the most senior manager possible. Depending on your state there may be a way forward, however it would be best for the states title transfer department to let you know directly based on what information that you currently have. Perhaps they can pull up something based on the address in their system. If the home is personal property perhaps they will be able to find it based on a previous owner or the address. Hope this helps some and points you in the right direction. Any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@scottsaylordoesmortgages-u8m]

Hey brother, appreciate the information. We have a deal going right now and we cannot find any information on this manufactured home. It's not on the frame, it's not in the closet, it's not on the placard on either side of the house, we've had multiple people looking for it and cannot find anything. And your professional opinion what's the next step for us if we're trying to get IBTS numbers?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for reaching out and connecting. My apologies for the delay in this comment reply. Great job looking in almost every spot that you could think of for any type of identification numbers for the home. Perhaps there is old paperwork that the park manager has or that can be found on the legal description or from the past owner's paperwork, registrations, or insurances. You may also be able to use your state's property appraiser's website to do a search by name to see if any personal property comes up under this mobile homeowner's name. Assuming that you do know the mobile homeowner's name. If you are not able to do any of these searches or you do not know or have any of this information then the mobile home may simply be an invisible mobile home with little hope of getting this one back on the state ownership records. Keep in mind that you could still contact the local tax department to add this home to the local tax roll so that you will pay taxes on the property, however it would technically be invisible at the state level. It sounds like you have searched the mobile home up and down. Great job checking on the frame as well. In this case the record of this mobile home may simply be gone forever. Some people I know have taken the vin off of a different home that they know was being destroyed. They then use this VIN to obtain a title in their state. However keep in mind this is fraudulent and I definitely do not encourage you to do this, however I did want to mention what other people have done in the past. Hope this helps some however I regret that I do not have a magic bullet that would easily be able to find the mobile home serial number or vin. It is ridiculous that these manufactured home companies don't have this number stamped all around the manufactured home to begin with.

[@mabelperez2385]

I have the HUD Label (the metal label outside of the mobile home) How can I find its VIN number? I cannot take out a title because I have no VIN#. The mobile home was bought as part of the land I bought.There was no seperate bill of sale. So now That I refirbished it the county is asking for a title. I NEED HELP! Previous owner has no vin# no infor

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for watching. Very glad you were able to find this hud label on the back of your mobile home. Definitely check out the Ibts.org website to try and order a report with the mobile homes Vin or serial number attached. This hud label number is a specific number registered to only this mobile home. Through this website listed above or by contacting HUD you should be able to track down this specific mobile home. You may be able to contact your state's manufacturer home titling department to ask them if they can do a search of the mobile home just off of the HUD label as well. I hope that this helps and points you in the right direction. Any follow up questions please never hesitate to write back any time.

[@tweetiebird]

I'm trying to do what you can do on regular housing is called a public records ownership search which is easy all you need is an address and go down to the country records office. But in Arizona a mobile home (not attached to the foundation) ownership records are maintained by MVD. I do not have the VIN# or the HUD ID information and search by name only picked up current and past vehicles they have owned. I'm figuring I need the Vin# and was told if you get the HUD ID off the exterior plate on the mobil home, you can get request the ViN#, but I am not the owner making a request for a certification letter. What can I do just to verify who the owner is of a mobil home ?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hello Dee. Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Thank you for your detailed comment as the certainly does help me understand your situation a bit better. Typically if you let the MVD know that you are a private buyer purchasing from a private seller, they will understand your trying to understand the process and not fall into any booby-traps. For this reason you can give them the VIN and asked them if there any hidden liens on the property, if taxes are due, as well as if "XYZ seller" is the actual owner of the mobile home. They will likely tell you yes or no if this is the seller. This way you can verify they are the owner. You can also verify the seller is the owner by matching their driver's license to the physical title. Not sure if this helps, but I hope it points you in the right direction. Any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@Brat6751]

I did all that...I used the hud inspection plate to get infor to get the data plate at IBTS...I have the entire VIN that the state says it does not exist. Now what the mobile home is in probate.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Great job going through the steps to try to obtain clear title or ownership. If the VIN is the correct one, and the state says that the home does not exist. The mobile home may have been moved into the state without any record. Perhaps this VIN is registered to a different state. Perhaps another state still shows this mobile home being physically located somewhere within a different state. Then again it may be real property as well. The mobile home's title is retired and the mobile home is "married" to the land and taxed as one unit, the VIN may not show up in the states mobile home record system either. However in these situations the VIN is usually recorded the legal description of the land or recorded somewhere so that you are able to find it in public records. I'm not sure if this helped too much, however I hope it does give you one or two extra ideas. Moving forward if you have any follow-up questions or concerns never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@VEASLEYBOY01]

What if I have the hud metal plate with the model number but haven’t been able to find the vin number yet?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Good question. Either your state should be able to help match the HUD number with the VIN in your states "mobile home title" system. Or by using the help of IBTS as mentioned in the video. You may likely be able to provide this company with the HUD label number and they should be able to provide you the Vin number. HUD may be able to help with this as well however I would definitely encourage you to go with IBTS to start with if possible. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction. If you have any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime. Happy to help if possible.

[@tomjohnson8737]

Does the city have the hud tag number? When home owner put it on there land with a foundation, shouldn't it be on the permit or on those documents when applying for a permit to place the modular home on the foundation?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Tom. Very good to hear from you. Concerning a mobile home attached to land, you are absolutely correct that there is much more of a traceable record. There is documentation in the permits and also many times in the legal description of the land the VIN(s) is added. Thank you for commenting and making this distinction. Moving forward any follow-up comments or questions never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@BrandiCrisp-kl8ue]

What avenues can we take if a mobile home was bought from the government in a foreclosure but currently their is no record of a title and the hud plate and plates were removed during remodels

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for watching and reaching out. Great job purchasing this home, hopefully on the cheap, from the foreclosure auction or sale. I'm curious if you purchase land in the sale as well. In some states their procedures to go through to bring the mobile home up to current present-day standards. After inspection the mobile home titling department will issue a new title with the new VIN number. This is the legal way to do things. However it will be very time-consuming and you definitely want to talk to your state directly to understand what hoops you have to jump through. Other people were looking for a shortcut, sometimes take the VIN of a mobile home that is going to be demoed and use it as their own. The states definitely do not make it easy when the situation happens. In reality, if you're not able to identify this mobile home, then it will be very difficult to obtain another title. If you know the previous owners are able to search based off last known location and maybe you can find a VIN that way, otherwise it may be impossible. Sorry to give such negative news however I do hope this made some sense. Any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@swa3491]

Hi, I am working on what appears to be a 1971 mobile home. There is an oval metal Plate on the exterior of mobile embossed with the letters MHMA TCA; it is located to the left of the front entrance and has a registered 7 digit number. Also ''American National Standard" A119.1 National Electrical Code C1 with the words Construction Plumbing Electrical Heating encircling the oval plate with Health Safety at the bottom of oval. Are these numbers related to VIN? Tried to attach photo without luck. Many thanks for you insight or advice?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. I am so happy that you brought this up. What you have found is very common in pre-1976 manufactured homes. This can usually be found on the exterior of the home somewhere close to the front door. Over the years I have seen where this number is registered with the state and therefore you can track down the title and other relevant information. To answer your question no, this is not the VIN or the serial number of the mobile home. However it is a permanent number that sometimes is collected and can be used to find the VIN or serial number at the state level. I say that you "might" be able to find the VIN or serial number because in some situations I have used this number and come up very empty-handed. I wish I could give you better news besides is a bit of the role of the dice depending on what the state worker recorded back in 1971. Thanks again for commenting. If you are successful or find out any new information never hesitate to comment back. All the best.

[@jennifercollins9086]

We have 2 on land we bought. I've traced back ownership as far at 1966. One mobile is 60s, the other 70. Neither have any identifiers at all. They have both been redone, completely gutted inside, and additions added on, etc. We have no titles, cannot find any VIN/serial numbers, no data plates, etc. Literally nothing to identify these homes. They have always been conveyed by mortgage/deed, but just listed as "all buildings on the property are hereby conveyed with land", etc. I'm being told this isn't good enough to try and get them permanently affixed since they have been on the same parcel since the 60s/70s. Neither can be moved as they are on permanent foundations. We were trying to sell and thats when this issue came up. Title company wont insure the sale due to no titles. Any help at all here? Florida.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Things first come a great job rehabbing these homes and making them look like more modern homes. Since there are no identifying numbers on them at all, and they are pre 1976 homes, that completely makes sense that the title company will not ensure the sale due to these no titles. The title company will probably ensure just the land, however not the mobile homes on top of the land due to them being invisible without any traceable numbers at the moment. The sale can still likely go through if the buyer is paying cash and does not mind that the homes will not transfer with a title. I hope this helps and make some sense. I probably did not tell you anything that you did not already know. Any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out any time.

[@lisap3344]

No Park no vin or paper trail , only deed , dad paid cash, many previous owners, will the sale pending be forfeited ? This mobile home my dad left to us and it’s on its own land. Paralegal stated she reviewed prior deeds recorded at the registry and did a UCC search at the Sec of State for prior owners and there is nothing. Typically in Massachusetts when it’s on its own land the Vin is not required, there is no bill of sale just the deed. Am I wasting money trying to get someone to continue searching for an invisible VIN ? I don’t have a lot of money 😢

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you so much for reaching out and connecting. Additionally, thank you for the detailed comment as this certainly does help me understand your situation a bit better. In your state it will be very difficult to find a park where this mobile home can go into. Means that you will need to resell the home to a buyer with some land that wishes to move the home onto their property. This land that a buyer has will be in the country where no permit is needed to bring the home. If you advertise the mobile home for sale with only a bill of sale, and that no title will be provided, you may still get somebody interested that wishes to purchase the home from you for no cost or a very cheap price. I am not sure if this helps in answering your question, however if it does not please don't hesitate to comment back. Happy to help if possible.

[@_STREETS]

Hi I’m in a similar situation I found the plate , but the number thats there , I try going to the DMV but they can’t find any information on the number I’m not sure if that the VIN Number.. I live in Arizona not sure how many number should it be maybe its not the serial number can I check IBTS for information..

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for reaching out and commenting. The HUD label number that you found on the little metal business card size plaque on the back of the home can usually be brought to the IBTS website. They should be able to track down more information about your specific mobile home and give you the serial number or VIN. HUD may also be able to help with this information as well. However you may be bounced around from one department to another. This HUD label that you have does refer to the specific mobile home. Any follow-up mobile home specific questions never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@coleculler166]

I am in the process of changing the Situs address to my manufactured home. The physical and Situs address do not match up. The application I'm filling out is asking for DECAL/License # and HUD LABEL. My question is, what is the difference between these two? I know where to find the HUD LABEL but what is this DECAL/License #?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Understood about the physical address not matching the address listed in the state's record or on the title. This definitely happens from time to time as mobile homes are moved without properly informing the state or county that the home is being relocated. The hud label number can be found on the back of the home on the actual hud label itself. Some states will have a decal each year to show that the home has paid the yearly registration. This is supposed to be put on the front of the home so that someone working for the tax department can drive by and see that a current year's decal has been paid and is placed on the front of the home. This can usually be seen from the road as someone is driving by. However your home may not have a decal as it may not be properly registered for the current year. I hope this helps and answers the question. However if I did not answer the question please feel free to comment back any time with any follow up questions.

[@coleculler166]

@@MobileHomeFormula Thank you for getting back to me. Our annual registration gets handled by the lender, Loan Depot. I am just curious if there is a difference between the License# and HUD label, because the SITUS Address change application is asking for both. The following link will take you to the HCD Form: www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/manufactured-and-mobilehomes/hcd-rt-480-9.pdf

[@carlosontiveros8742]

What’s the best way to find data . Should I call DMV and give them the address or tax record of the county on a permanent foundation double wide home?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for commenting and reaching out. Ideally on the back of your mobile home there is a small business card size metal plate with numbers on it. This would be the HUD label identify the mobile home with the state. Additionally, there may be a data plate inside of the home which is a legal sized piece of paper attached somewhere on the wall in the mobile home. However because this is a piece of paper it can certainly be removed or covered over the years. If this is real property attached to a permanent foundation on land you also own then the VIN or serial number should be on the legal description or provided in some of the paperwork when you closed on the property. Calling the tax record or county property appraiser can be helpful as well. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction. If you have any follow up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime please.

[@loriseymour6880]

I live in Indiana. My ex-husband and I recently got divorced and I have the chance to purchase our home. When we purchased it it’s a 1991 patriot home double wide trailer or a manufactured home. Not a mobile not a modular. Double Wides is now a manufactured home. we have totally gutted the original part of the house and have added on and in the process of doing all that my ex-husband never kept any of the data plates. It is sitting on a crawlspace, and the new portion is on a basement. there are four I-beams underneath the house. I don’t know where to look. I cannot see where the tongue of the hitch was because it is right at the block crawlspace. And also my ex-husband had blown in foam insulation installed throughout the whole crawlspace. Any suggestions? This is a court order from the judge stating that we have to sell the house. I am trying to refinance this, I am running in to brick walls. Please help. Do you have any names of anybody in central Indiana? That would be willing to crawl under my house and look for the serial number?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for watching and reaching out. Additionally, thank you for the detailed comment as the certainly does help me understand your situation a bit better. I regret to hear about the difficulty you both are going through trying to get this all resolved. I can save you time with a handyman crawling under the home looking for the serial numbers, as they almost certainly will not be located under the home. If you are looking directly at the front end of your mobile home, where the tongue would normally be. On that I-beam where the tongue is attached to, there may be a metal plate, laminated index card, or small metal VIN number stamped into the steel of the I-beam in this general location. On the back of the home there should be to metal business cards riveted to the side of the mobile home. This will be in the back typically on all mobile homes built after 1976. The problem is these metal plates can be stolen or simply covered up or removed if the siding has been changed over the years. May also be able to find a data plate inside the home, however thank you for mentioning that you are not able to find this one already. The Vin number may be listed on the legal description or any insurance paperwork that you may have in the past. However I assume that you would've already found this if it was available. In short, this is not an ideal situation. This happens around the country many many times a year. Or at least it seems that way from the emails I get monthly on the same topic. I hope that you are able to find some information on the home. Moving forward if you have any follow-up questions or concerns please never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@SarahHomer-m2b]

Hello. I am working with a mfg home that my company sold 8 years ago, unknowingly providing the incorrect title to purchaser. This was the title that was provided to us when we purchased the home. All we have is the HUD Label number. I went through IBTS to obtain the s/n and date of mfg and the manufacturer name. I know nothing else and need to provide the VIN in order to petition the court to obtain the correct title. I have tried the manufacturer's state (OH) titling agency, our home state (MO) titling agency, the Missouri Manufactured Housing Commission, and I can't figure out how to get the VIN for this mfg home. Any advise or direction would be so appreciated. We are facing a lawsuit unless we can provide the correct title.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you very much for reaching out and connecting. I really regret to hear the situation that you are and at the moment. You obviously have done so much legwork to already find out the manufacturers information, origin date, and even the serial number. I'm surprised that you are not able to use the serial number in lieu of the VIN. If possible, perhaps you may be able to contact the manufacturer directly to see if they may be able to provide you more information on the VIN. This would be a long shot though. You already mentioned a few of the options that I would have provided to you already. In some situations the VIN may be simply gone to time and removed a long time ago. If you are not able to find this on old paperwork for the home or insurance forms than it may be near impossible to locate. I'm so sorry that I do not have a magic bullet type of answer for you. I'm assuming that you already checked the very front of the mobile home where the I-beam is. Occasionally the VIN stamped into the metal there. However that is a bit of a long shot. Please keep in touch moving forward. Certainly interested to hear what happens. It sounds as if you have done nothing wrong, and you are simply given the wrong information when you purchase the home. Which happens more often than you would believe around the country. All the best.

[@jimmy74xl]

I guess I'm screwed, I bought a mobile home hear in NY ,paid 45ks for it and all I got was a bill of sale, the park requires insurance bu I can't buy insurance unless I know the manufacturer and Vin# which I dont have so I removed the front skirting look at x beam no # ,the only place Found a # was next to the hitch is a 6 digit number no letters ,terrible feeling.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for watching and commenting! The numbers on the hitch may potentially be a VIN or serial number. I've certainly seen them with just a couple digits only. In New York you would want to talk to the Department of Motor Vehicles to see this random number matches any mobile homes on file. When you call up the DMV mention that you are a "private buyer will be purchasing from a private seller" and you want to make sure the information you got was correct. They may or may not be able to help you based on this number. In New York State, all mobile homes before 1994 do not need a title to legally transfer ownership. This may be done with a notarized bill of sale. Again, this is for homes built before 1994. If yours was built after 1994 than a title is required, and the insurance company will not likely ensure the home without a clear title. However double check with the insurance company if your home was built in the early 90s or earlier. I hope this helps and points you in the right direction moving forward. Feel free to comment back if this does not work or if you have any follow-up questions.

[@mamadoom9724]

Did you ever find a solution to your problem? I’m having a similar problem. I can’t get insurance without this information that I don’t have.

[@jaycole3768]

I going thru this now. Its been 4 months trying to close and they final found the vin thru tax paper. And dont the house detitled and attached to the property but now the lender or underwriter wants a picture of the vin number on the frame. And the only way to get it. Is the tear of areas of the brick skirting to search for. It. This has. Become abig issue

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for commenting. Great work tracking down this old tax paper. That is super frustrating about the banks underwriter now moving the goalpost even further and demanding to see an actual picture of the Vin number stamped on to the I-beam of the mobile home. In reality, there's a decent chance that this is not even there. On some mobile homes they have something like this, or even a placard of some kind, however many times there is nothing. In this situation it would mean that you found the Vin number on a legal tax form, however the bank is still stopping everything from going through because they want to see something that never existed on the frame. I hope that you are able to find what you're looking for. I have always seen it at the front of the home where the tongue should be. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction. Congratulations on the sale, assuming that it goes through.

[@jaycole3768]

@@MobileHomeFormula ty

[@jasonbrown1483]

Here's the deal. I'm buying a mobile home and land from a flipper investor. Bank had the title. But trailer has no labels tag. How can I make sure the bank has correct title that corresponds to the trailer? If trailer title does not mention property.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hello Bird. Thank you for explaining the situation. Understood about you buying the mobile home directly from an investor who bought this from a bank. Ideally in the future, you are able to buy these directly from the bank yourself. As investors we typically purchase from the owner occupants many of the times. It sounds as if the mobile home you are looking at does not have any easily identifiable numbers on it. No HUD label, no data plate, no serial of the numbers anywhere. The home is a ghost. On the title it may have the make of the home and the dimensions of the home. It will also have the address and age. The age of the home should look appropriate. In the dimensions can hopefully be matched up. Keep in mind that on the title it may read an extra 4 feet in length as this will account for the tongue. Hope this helps and makes sense. Any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@braidenianniello771]

So, I’m in a similar situation. But I recently found the vin and all of the MH information. For my state, it says with the age of my home (1997) that we do not need a title for ownership, just a bill of sale . In your experience, do you find that to be true ? That the bill of sale shows I legally own it ?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Braiden. Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Great job tracking down all of this information. In three states there are laws that say a notarized bill of sale by itself will transfer ownership from one person to another on a mobile home. Like you mentioned, this is typically because it is older than a certain age. Do your best on using the information you have to see who currently owns the property you are looking at purchasing. If the title exists then this supersedes a bill of sale. However if the true owner has been missing for many years then it is common that a bill of sale is used to transfer from one party to another. Additionally, after a certain age the DMV or title transfer department will not print more titles for the specific mobile homes. In these situations, and make sure you double check with the state's mobile home title transfer department and give them your specific Vin number... In these situations it is absolutely okay to use a notarized bill of sale to transfer ownership from one person to another. This will not be recorded anywhere and should be kept in a very safe and dry place. I hope this helps and makes sense. Moving forward if you have any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@pilgrimstogether8]

Is there a way to get a new title if I have no VIN or HUD plate? I want to sell it.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for watching and commenting. In some states you are able to have a new VIN or HUD plate issued to your mobile home. However this usually requires a state official to come out to make sure the home is habitable and meets certain safety standards. Then a new VIN may be issued. Contact your state's mobile home title transfer department and Department of Transportation to see what type of information you are able to learn. You may have to explain your situation and provide the address of the mobile home as well. I hope this helps and points you in the right direction.

[@pilgrimstogether8]

Thank you. Appreciate the guidance ​@@MobileHomeFormula

[@DianeJXX57]

I'm in the process of selling my 1997 manufactured home in GA. I'm the original owner and it was a new home when I purchased. My home and land purchase were placed into one mortgage at the time of purchase, and I was told (under GA law) that converts the property to "real property" where the title is retired, and the manufactured home & the land are treated just like any other site-built house. If a title was even issued, I never saw it, because banks hold the title (which would have been retired anyway) until the mortgage or financing is paid off. I have had my house "homesteaded" all the years I owned it, and my tax bill every year clearly states the property as "real property." My prospective buyer's realtors are in an uproar though because they "can't find a title." I'm afraid they may be looking for something that got lost in the shuffle long ago--or was possibly never even issued to begin with. I've given them photos of the Data Sheet (with serial #--no VIN on it), and the HUD Label, along with copies of bills of purchase (showing the serial #s match), and the original mortgage info. Like so many mortgages, mine was sold numerious times to various companies---but I also supplied a copy of the mortgage pay-off with the final company, and deed-release filed in the county I live in. I have not yet been able to locate a VIN scratched or stamped anywhere. Any hope for this situation, do you think? 😏

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Additionally, thank you for your detailed comment as the certainly does help me understand your situation a bit better. Every couple of months I received a comment like this or an email that is very similar. Someone retired their mobile home title and now they have real property. The mobile home in the land are married and taxed as one entity. This may even be how the homeowner purchased the property. The property went through a title company and closed 100% legally. However the problem comes when a buyer is trying to line up bank financing. The underwriter of the bank typically is so close minded that when they see the words "manufactured home" or "mobile home" they have to see a title, no matter what. Even though the fact of the matter is the title might've been handed over the state or relinquished a while ago. Many states you are able to un-retire the title, and therefore receive a new physical title. However when you do that the mobile home and land will them be separated and will not be real property anymore, but personal property, which the bank will obviously not like. In these situations I do not know any way to negotiate or reason with the banks underwriter. Their job is to keep the bank safe with lending and they just don't understand that a mobile home that is considered "real property" does not have a physical title anymore at the moment. In the past I've seen this ruin deals when banks need to get involved. I'm sorry I'm not able to give you better advice, however this is what I have unfortunately seen time and time again. If you are able to overcome this in some way please write back and let us know. Moving forward any follow-up questions or concerns never hesitate to reach back out anytime. All the best.

[@DianeJXX57]

@@MobileHomeFormula Thank you for your response. I'll certainly let you know what the resolution may be (if any). The potential buyers of my property are actually cash buyers -- which make this all even more ridiculous! 🙄

[@AndrewHernandez-gs3cc]

John, im a young 21 year old man with a large family. I found an opportunity to purchase a mobile home for $2000, i have nothing but a bill of sale. They claim the title "is lost". I have a manufacturer certificate but with no date of manufacturing or model no. I feel like i sank my money into something i cant legally own. I want to fix up and move but i want to yo make sure my money isnt being put into someone elses property for free.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for reaching out and connecting. Great job finding this opportunity in the first place. I am imagining that this is probably located in a preexisting mobile home community, and obviously does not include the land which it sits on. If the mobile home community manager does not ask to see the title from you, or to see the title with your name on it, then the manager will likely not care that you purchased the home with only a bill of sale. You have not truly “purchased” the mobile home legally until your name is on the title (at least in most states). However you have purchased the occupancy and the keys and the ability to sign a lease at the mobile home park now that you are approved and can live there in peace. In most states you will have to make sure that the local taxes get paid as well for the mobile home. However even though the title is not in your name you can still likely pay these yearly at the local tax collector's office. If you fix this home up and live there then you will not likely have an issue unless the owner comes back, which is super unlikely. Or unless the park management changes and they require to see everyone's name on the title where they live. When you sell the property, you will be selling the possession of the home and the keys. For a quick sale you may have to drop the asking price 30% or more from retail, however there still will likely be a buyer that purchases if you're advertisement says “Bill of sale only, no title”. I hope this helps and make some sense. Any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out any time. All the best.

[@HellcatM]

I wish I had seen this video a few weeks ago. My father is trying to sell his house and the underwriter wants the number and maker of the house. We do have the plate (actually we have 2 plates on the side of our house, just one number difference.) The paper was ripped off, I can see a small portion of it with the last 5 digits of the serial number. I'm going to look and see if the number was stamped then maybe go to the DMV and see if they can help. My father bought the house from his ex (probably tried to sell it but had problems.) I'm asking neighbors if they have theirs so we can at least get the manufacturer of the house. At least you gave me some ideas, I have several people working on this. Thank you.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for watching! That can be frustrating when the paper is ripped off like that. I have had times where almost all the information is there except the VIN information. Great job searching through what you could. Glad to have been some help. Any follow-up mobile home related questions never hesitate to reach out anytime. All the best.

[@HellcatM]

@@MobileHomeFormula Thank you John! The team I had working with me found what was needed, it took longer than it should. They really need to take a more "car" approach to this instead of a paper decal. The plates are nice they should just maybe put another with the VIN number and like with a car the realtor (and whoever else needs the info) can find it by looking at the MLS. We should have been in the new house almost 3 weeks ago. Thank you again for the info.

[@thebobsmith1991]

Hi John. What is your opinion. I have the support of the park manager..should i buy a mobile home for 7,000 cash Without a title. DMV and seller have no record of one? Thank you

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Bob. Thanks for reaching out and connecting. The scenario you are coming across is one that will happen in most states. In fact, it will happen to almost every mobile home investor if they are investing for a little while or longer. It is important that you have the support of the park management. That they understand you will only be "purchasing" the home with a bill of sale, and without a title as needed. The state of course would tell you to turn the other way and not pay the seller any money. In reality you are not really buying the home, but you are buying possession. Try to see if there is a way to obtain title legally, however if not in the deal is solid, I personally would likely move forward with it. I'm not suggesting that you do this, but that may be something I would do if I were in your shoes. Make sure you understand your realistic exit strategy, repairs, holding cost, and what the park is expecting. Hope this helps and answers the question. Feel free to keep in touch moving forward. All the best.

[@thebobsmith1991]

@@MobileHomeFormula Hi. Thank you for responding! Would you breifly explain the purchase/possesion part a little more?

[@donnap502]

Who are the manufactured that DO use the stamps?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I am happy to help answer your mobile home related questions, however I am not sure what you mean by which manufacturers use the stamps. Could you please ask this question in a different way so that I understand? Happy to help if possible.

[@MrEly115]

I have my parents double wide on full foundation that I am trying to purchase and banks can't finance it because for some reason it doesn't have a hud number generated for it!!! That is from the IFTB , it never got a hud number generated for it in 1993!!! So my question is what the hell can I do to get a hud number for it

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Thanks for the detailed reply as well. It absolutely sounds like you have gone down the rabbit hole and done as much as you can, to only figure out that for some reason your manufactured home slipped through the cracks. You may have to contact HUD directly in order for them to issue you a new HUD label number. They may want to come out and inspect the property or make sure it is up to current codes. I regret to hear you are in this situation know. Dealing with the HUD department is definitely going to be slow and a lot of bureaucracy. However these are definitely the folks to speak with. You may get bounced around to a few different departments however they are the ones that need to issue you a new label since this was not done in the past. Hope this helps and points you in the right direction. Please keep in touch moving forward if you have any follow-up questions or were able to come to a different solution. Any additional questions never hesitate to reach out.

[@susanandpauljackson]

We recently bought our mobile from our park and need title but they said they have to apply for it so it could be transferred into our name? We bought some property to move it on but can't until we get the title and then the permit to move it. Could we just use ownership letter?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I'm very sorry that you're going through this headache. It absolutely sounds like the park has sold you a mobile home that they did not own, and maybe had no intention of truly getting clear ownership for. In most states there is an abandonment process or other processes to go through to obtain clear ownership. When it comes to moving mobile homes, some mobile home movers will require that they see the title and it be in your name. Other moving companies will not require this information. Some sketch year moving companies will not even require any type of vin or serial information, as they will not pull permits they will use a different serial number to obtain this permit. I hope this helps some and answers the question. Moving forward any follow-up questions please never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@Sgtzo2017]

I have the data plate it has a hud number and serial number can anyone find the vin number with the info. Or can I get a title with that info?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hey Lorenzo! Thanks for reaching out and connecting. Great job finding the data plate and HUD label number. You definitely want to contact the title transfer department in your state. I'm not sure what state you're in however every state has a title transfer department, or mobile home ownership transfer department, where ownership is transferred from one party to another. That said, in some states only a bill of sale is needed on certain mobile homes and therefore no department is technically needed. However in most states there is definitely a title transfer department to contact and provide these serial number or VIN numbers too. These folks will definitely direct to do the quickest and easiest way to transfer title into your name. You may also want to check out this website www.ibts.org/what-we-do/verification-letter-certificate/. I hope that this helps and point you in the right direction. Moving forward if you have any follow-up questions or concerns never hesitate to reach out anytime please. All the best.

[@pattystanley-n3p]

Can't fine vin number at all no title either 1975 purchase build in 1973 sultz

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for reaching out and connecting. Perhaps this information can be found on small paperwork that is lying around. Or perhaps if there is a decal on the outside of the home that may have some pertinent numbers. If you still are unable to find the VIN, there are a couple other suggestions in the video. However sometimes all of the identification information is gone or lost.

[@hunterm.172]

Great information! I actually had a very similar situation-I went down this road when I bought land and what I did is went on the County GIS and found the property tax card and with able to see that there was a 1986 mobile home and the DMV was able to use that along with the address to find the old owner and the lady who owned it came and signed it over to me it’s free and clear!!! Also I was looking at the option where you can cut the tongue off and the axles off do a brick/cinder block underpinning and then you can make the mobile home real property so it will always stay to the land just like a house would - i’m trying to see if I can find clarification on if I were to buy a mobile home with no title/vin/data plate and did that if it would be legal or if there was ramifications because how the heck would you be able to ever track it down with no vin or anything? The lady at the DMV did tell me that a bill of sale was legal so I don’t know trying to figure that one out lol

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hey Dailan. Thank you for reaching out and connecting. Congratulations with regards to purchasing the land and tracking down the older property owner. Great work going to see her and getting her to sign over that mobile home to you. Understood and agreed about her being happy just to get the home out of her name once and for all. With regards to your second situation, in most states a bill of sale is not enough to transfer ownership from one party to another. However I have absolutely seen that in some counties the folks in charge happily look the other way because they know you or simply because the home is been there for so long and it may be "grandfathered in" of sorts. If the mobile home is already set up on the land without a data plate, vein, or anything else then you should not have much to worry about unless you're planning to refinance the mobile home and land. That is because once the home is set up and connected to utilities there is usually no more proof you need to show to anyone moving forward. In fact, you can absolutely get utilities hooked up to a ghost mobile home as well. However if you ever go to sell this property the buyer's title company and/or bank would likely have underwriting issues with this situation. I hope this helps and make some sense. If I missed the questions or you have any follow-up statements or questions never hesitate to reach out any time. Keep up the great work!

[@Conservative_Pulse]

We’re having an issue where our home we’re trying to sell has been taxed as real property but there’s no record of it. The house and property is taxed on the same bill. Our closing agent is saying the titles were never cancelled to the property. If we give the HUD labels to the IBTS, will they provide us with the VIN number if we pay for it? I’ve crawled under my house and so has a home inspector that we paid for this specific purpose. I’m guessing the vin is hidden by the block foundation.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi RB. Thanks for reaching out and connecting. I regret that you are having the situation. That certainly does put you in a very interesting situation. Since the mobile home and land are taxed on the same bill, I would think that is evidence and record of the mobile home title being given to the state or retire the title somewhere in the distant past. There certainly are processes to un-retire the title however this will vary from state to state. I'm curious if you or the closing agent has possession of the titles themselves. However I guess if you did you would probably have the VIN as well. If you are able to provide the HUD label number to IBTS than they should be able to help you out with providing you the VIN. Depending on where you are looking for the VIN, it may or may have been removed over the years or never been there at all. Hope this helps some and point you in the right direction moving forward. Any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@kristinlee9485]

I am having trouble finding anyone who will insure my home. Who will insure a mobile home with no HUD tag, no Vin, no data plate .... nothing

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thank you for commenting. You are definitely right about an insurance company not wanting to insure a property that is basically invisible. Without any identifying markers on the home it will be very very difficult to find an insurance company to help you. Check foremost if you have not done so already, however I know most of the other big name companies will definitely want a VIN number or serial number. In some states you may be able to obtain a new VIN by going through a rigorous process and having the home reinspected so that the state deems it habitable. You will want to check with your manufactured home title transfer department for more information about this depending on your state. I hope this helps and points you in the right direction.

[@kristinlee9485]

@@MobileHomeFormula Thank you for your response. Actually I have had insurance with foremost for several years, unfortunately they are looking for a reason to cancel me. Their reason is that I am missing railings on my deck. But I have a feeling that the real reason they're trying to cancel me is because I put a claim in for hail damage on my roof 2 years ago. Once I get these railings installed on my deck, I have a good feeling they're not going to reinstate me anyway. And I may end up in a property with no insurance whatsoever. I find it ludicrous that each state doesn't have their own special HUD inspectors, to come and inspect your home like you mentioned, and confirm that it is built to HUD standards. I don't know why they don't do that. It seems crazy to me that people all over the US, have these "ghost" mobile homes that nobody will insure or lend money on

[@davecraig8176]

Can I give it away?

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Thanks for commenting. The answer to this question is definitely, it depends. The home is not really yours to give away. However situation certainly very. Does the mobile home have a lien on it from the park or a local bank that will want to repossess the mobile home. Is there a lien on the mobile home of any kind you know of? Is the mobile home in a park or on your property? Did you just purchase the property or have you been looking at this old empty home for years? All of these situations will vary a bit. However if no one is coming back for the mobile home and no one will know that it was removed or given away. The buyer should know that there is definitely no title now or in the future. This is a bit of a vague answer however I hope it helps and makes sense. Any follow-up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@davecraig8176]

@MobileHomeFormula I bought 2.3 acres and this ghost home for $1. Years ago, when I bought 1.8 acres and a house.

[@MobileHomeFormula]

@@davecraig8176 Thanks for commenting back. If you purchased the land and home for 1$ then seriously great work creating that deal. Well it seems that after a few years no one is going to come back for that home anytime soon. So giving it away to someone that knows you don't have title or ownership would be your best bet, besides demoing it yourself. Hope you're able to get rid of this one to someone for free. Any follow up questions never hesitate to reach out anytime.

[@lindaderr1927]

Hi everyone this might be interesting - what I'm about to tell you. About 3 yrs ago I moved into a mobilehome ( all the payments has been made to a previous owner) now back a few months ago, I took ownership of my said mobilehome, expecting to get the title from him, the said mobilehome property at a Mobilhome court has been sold to new owners ,,which is under new ownership, I'm guessing that my title which I never received months ago is apart of a Lein sitting somewhere. I have talked to the new owners and a asking if I could have my title this has been numerous times plus, emails texts and so-on, I took ownership in January of this year 2022, I have consulted with the DMV , and tied to get a lost title- no such luck there, still tried to talk with the new owners about getting my title, they have come up with many many excuses on why I can't get my title, rightfully the said mobilehome belongs to me as of now. I've even gone through all the channels and consulted a Lawyer about this, so to anyone reading this- please be careful on buying a mobilehome. [ I do have a Bill of Sale from the previous owner, that all payments has been made to him.] Now I'm stuck with a mobilehome that I somewhat own but I cannot sell because of these new owners, they will not sign off on the title . And I can't afford to hire a Attorney to fight them in court. - Please-Please be careful on buying a mobilehome, I have paid all the taxes here every year since I have moved in- ! These people are crooks. Please don't buy a mobilehome from Lighthouse LLC, just a warning to anyone !!

[@MobileHomeFormula]

Hi Linda. Thank you so much for reaching out and connecting. I very much regret to hear about this entire situation and everything that you have gone through. It absolutely sounds as if you lived up to your end of the deal and did everything you are asked to do. I am so glad that you posted this year as an example for buyers to not trust any sellers and to verify, verify, verify! I'm curious what state you are in with regards to the lighthouse LLC company.. Like you mentioned I do not want anyone using them either if that was your experience. Everyone reading this that is considering buying a mobile home should not feel dumb or rude by asking to verify that the seller has the mobile home title and it is actually in their names. Also, you are not dumb or wrong to ask that when you give 100% of the money for the mobile home to the seller, you want to be handed the title for transfer the title at your local mobile home title transfer department/office locally. Moving forward if you have any specific questions please never hesitate to reach out any time.

[@lindaderr1927]

Thank-you for replying, I do appreciate you listening to my somewhat complaints and or misfortune. I just don't want anyone else to go through what I have gone through with my said mobilehome. The mobilehome is a older home ( 1975). I live in Illinois and was hesitant to tell anyone else about what went on. Ty for replying. The new owners are form out of state I believe, I'm not sure at this time. I also believe that this company goes around and buys up these small Mobilhome Courts when the previous owners want to sell out and move on. Ps, I did watch ur video on how to buy, sell and or fix up a mobilehome, I have fixed up a couple mobilehomes in the past, when I was much younger with my first home I had bought, I had a 12x60 single wide that I had painted the home and the shed myself. The second home I did paint that home it was a 14x70 , they both looked good after I was done. The second home I had a friend to help me paint and both homes were painted inside and outside both. I enjoyed ur videos, 😀😃.