Home
Call Kerry
Mobile Home Financing in Florida: What You Need to Know
Guidelines may change without notice — check with your mortgage pro for the latest info.
Mobile home purchases come with their own set of rules and quirks. If you're considering buying a manufactured mobile home here in Florida, here's a quick breakdown of what makes these sales a little different — and what to watch out for.
Construction Type & Financing Options
Double-Wide vs Single-Wide Mobile Homes
Financing is generally easier with double-wide mobile homes. They're more widely accepted by lenders, offer better loan terms, and appeal to a broader buyer pool. Single-wide mobile homes can be financed, but not all lenders offer this option, and the rates and terms are usually less favorable. Lender-specific guidelines apply.
Pro Tip: If you're buying land and planning to place a mobile home on it for future resale, consider going with a double-wide. They tend to sell quicker, finance smoother, and attract more interest than single-wides.
USDA Loans
In Florida, USDA will not finance pre-owned mobile homes. Only brand-new units qualify — usually through a one-time close construction loan.
One-Time Close Program
This option lets you combine land, a new double-wide (or larger) mobile home, and all necessary improvements into one loan — closing costs can even be rolled in.
Age, Insurance & Inspections
Mobile Home Age
Technically, financing is allowed for mobile homes built as far back as June 15, 1976, but Florida insurance carriers are drawing the line closer to 1990. Coverage shortfalls are the issue — not enough to fully replace the home if damaged.
Insurance Quotes
Get insurance quotes before you go under contract. Many carriers won't cover mobile homes built before 1994, and those that do can charge hefty premiums.
Polybutylene Pipes
Generally not acceptable to insurance carriers. However, the deal can still be workable if the seller agrees to re-pipe the mobile home.
4-Point Inspections
These are lender and insurer -specific. Some lenders require them only for mobile homes older than 30 years, while others may require them as early as 15 years of age. Check with your lender.
Insurance Providers Familiar with Mobile Homes:
Titus Huxford
Bold City Insurance
📧 titus@boldcityinsurance.com
📞 (904) 559-6779
Danny Sands
Brightway - The Sands Agency
📧 danny.sands@brightway.com
📞 (904) 999-3250, Option 4
Jaime Naples
Personal Lines Account Executive, Acentria Insurance
📧 Jaime.Naples@Acentria.com
📞 Direct: (954) 654-7041 | Mobile: (727) 871-1255
📍🌐 www.Acentria.com
Certifications & Requirements
Structural Engineer Certification
  • FHA: Required on all mobile home deals.
  • VA: Only required if the appraiser calls it out (usually for porches or additions).
  • Conventional: Not typically required unless the appraiser flags it.
  • Cost: Around $400.
Foundation & Setup Rules
  • Mobile home must be permanently affixed to the land before closing (HUD-compliant).
  • Wheels, tongues, and axles must be removed.
  • Skirting must include a frame behind the panels.
  • Seller can cover these costs in addition to buyer's closing costs.
HUD Tags & Data Plate
  • Required for all loans.
  • Tags are usually found near the electrical panel, inside a kitchen cabinet, or bedroom closet.
  • If missing, an IBTS report (approx. $200) can be ordered to verify.
Relocation Rule
Ideally, mobile homes must be a first-time setup on the current land (from dealership to homesite only). However, some lenders do finance relocated mobile homes, though terms are typically less favorable. These are lender-specific and limited in availability.
Flood Zones
  • FHA: Requires the ground under the mobile home to meet Base Flood Elevation (BFE).
  • VA & Conventional: More flexible, but still require flood insurance coverage.
Well & Septic Systems
When applicable, certifications are typically required. The well test must confirm potable drinking water free from bacteria and contaminants. The septic system must be inspected to verify proper function, no signs of failure, and sufficient capacity for the number of bedrooms in the mobile home. Repairs or pump-outs may be required before closing depending on findings and lender requirements.
Ownership, Titles & Legal Considerations
Real Property Requirement
Titles must be retired at or before closing.
Title Not Retired
If not, the VIN needs to be retired through the DMV.
Cost & Timeline
Cost: About $150 and takes roughly a week.
Loan Program Guidelines & Down Payment Requirements
Note: These are general guidelines. Many lenders offer conventional loan programs with lower down payment options and varying credit score requirements.
DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are geared toward investors and don't require employment or income verification.
Ready to Buy Your Mobile Home?
Need Help Navigating the Mobile Home Buying Process?
Buying a mobile home in Florida is a little different than buying a traditional site-built house, but with the right guidance and upfront homework, it can be a smooth process. If you need help navigating the ins and outs, feel free to reach out — I'm happy to walk you through it.
Why Choose a Mobile Home in Florida?
Mobile homes offer an affordable housing option in Florida's competitive real estate market. With proper financing and understanding of the requirements, you can secure a comfortable home that meets your needs and budget.
Common Questions About Mobile Home Financing
Many first-time mobile home buyers have questions about the unique aspects of financing these properties. From title retirement to foundation requirements, the process has several specific steps that differ from traditional home purchases.
Buying a mobile home in Florida is a little different than buying a traditional site-built house, but with the right guidance and upfront homework, it can be a smooth process. If you need help navigating the ins and outs, feel free to reach out —We're happy to walk you through it.