Quick Answer: How Do You Transfer a Mobile Home Title in Georgia?
To transfer a mobile home title in Georgia, the seller must sign the current title over to the buyer, and the buyer must submit the title transfer paperwork to the county tag office.
The buyer usually must provide:
- The signed mobile home title
- A completed Georgia Title Application (Form MV-1)
- Valid identification
- Payment of the title transfer fee
Once the paperwork is processed, the Georgia Department of Revenue issues a new title in the buyer’s name.
When a Mobile Home Title Transfer Is Required
A title transfer is required whenever ownership of a mobile home changes in Georgia.
This commonly happens during:
- A property sale
- Transfer between family members
- Inheritance of a mobile home
- Gifting a manufactured home
- Paying off a mobile home loan
Without transferring the title, the new owner may not have legal proof of ownership.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Mobile Home Title in Georgia
Step 1: Sign the Title Over to the Buyer
The current owner must complete the assignment section on the back of the title.
This usually includes:
- Seller’s signature
- Buyer’s name and address
- Purchase price
- Date of sale
The title must be signed exactly as the owner’s name appears on the title.
Step 2: Complete the Georgia Title Application
The buyer must complete Form MV-1 (Motor Vehicle Title Application).
This form includes:
- Buyer’s name and address
- Mobile home serial number or VIN
- Information about the seller
- Odometer information if applicable (not usually required for mobile homes)
This form allows the state to issue a new title in the buyer’s name.
Step 3: Submit Paperwork to the County Tag Office
The buyer typically submits the paperwork at the county tag office in the county where the buyer lives.
Documents usually required include:
- Signed mobile home title
- Completed MV-1 form
- Valid identification
- Proof of payment or bill of sale
- Title transfer fee
The county tag office forwards the paperwork to the Georgia Department of Revenue for processing.
Step 4: Pay the Title Transfer Fee
Georgia charges a title transfer fee, which is typically around $18, although local fees may vary slightly.
The fee must be paid when the application is submitted.
Step 5: Receive the New Mobile Home Title
After the paperwork is processed, the Georgia Department of Revenue issues a new title listing the buyer as the legal owner.
Processing times can vary, but titles are typically mailed to the new owner.
What If the Mobile Home Title Is Lost?
If the original title cannot be found, the seller must apply for a duplicate mobile home title before the transfer can occur.
This usually requires:
- Completing a duplicate title application
- Providing proof of ownership
- Paying the duplicate title fee
Once the duplicate title is issued, the ownership transfer can proceed.
What If the Mobile Home Has a Lien?
If a lender has a lien on the mobile home, the title transfer cannot occur until the lien is resolved.
The process usually requires:
- Paying off the remaining loan balance
- Receiving a lien release from the lender
- Applying for a clear title before transferring ownership
The lien release must be recorded before the new owner can receive a clear title.
When Mobile Homes Do Not Have a Title in Georgia
In some cases, mobile home titles are retired when the home is permanently attached to land.
When a title is retired:
- The mobile home becomes part of the real estate
- Ownership transfers through a property deed instead of a title
In these situations, selling the property is handled through a real estate closing rather than a title transfer.
Common Mistakes When Transferring a Mobile Home Title
Errors during the title transfer process can cause delays or legal issues.
Common mistakes include:
- Incorrect signatures on the title
- Missing serial number or VIN
- Unpaid liens on the mobile home
- Failure to complete the title application
Ensuring the paperwork is completed accurately can help prevent delays.
Final Thoughts on Mobile Home Title Transfers in Georgia
Transferring a mobile home title in Georgia is a relatively straightforward process when the proper documents are available. The seller must sign the title over to the buyer, and the buyer must submit the title transfer paperwork through the county tag office.
If the title has been lost or a lien exists on the mobile home, additional steps may be required before the ownership transfer can be completed.
Understanding the title transfer process can help buyers and sellers avoid delays and ensure that ownership of the mobile home is properly recorded.