How to Buy, Move, and Sell a Used Mobile Home to Be Moved in Texas

Buying a used manufactured home that needs to be relocated is one of the most affordable ways to become a homeowner in Texas. Homes listed "to be moved" are often priced well below market value because the seller needs the lot cleared. But the process involves more steps than a typical real estate transaction. From securing permits to hiring licensed movers and preparing your new site, here's everything you need to know.

Finding a Home to Be Moved

Used manufactured homes listed for relocation are available through several channels in Texas. Online marketplaces, manufactured home dealers, community managers clearing lots, and private sellers all offer homes that must be moved. When evaluating a home for relocation, focus on structural integrity above all else. The home needs to survive the move, so look for a solid steel frame (called the I-beam or chassis), intact marriage line connections on doublewides, and no significant water damage or structural rot.

Before making an offer, have a qualified inspector evaluate the home specifically for transport readiness. This inspection differs from a standard home inspection because it focuses on the frame, axles, tires, hitch, and structural connections that matter during transport. Expect to pay $250-$400 for a pre-move inspection in Texas.

Understanding the True Cost of Moving

The purchase price of a "to be moved" home is just the starting point. You need to budget for the full relocation cost, which includes several components:

• Transport fees — For a singlewide, expect $3,000-$8,000 depending on distance. Doublewides cost $10,000-$20,000 or more because each half requires its own transport vehicle and pilot cars.
• Permit fees — Texas requires oversize load permits from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). Permit costs range from $20 to several hundred dollars depending on the route and home dimensions.
• Setup and installation — Once delivered, the home must be set on a foundation, leveled, anchored, and connected to utilities. Budget $3,000-$8,000 for singlewide setup and $5,000-$15,000 for a doublewide.
• Utility connections — Water, sewer, electrical, and gas hookups can run $2,000-$6,000 depending on how far your new site is from existing utility lines.
• Skirting — New skirting for the home's perimeter typically costs $1,500-$4,000 installed.

All told, moving a singlewide typically costs $10,000-$20,000 beyond the purchase price, while a doublewide relocation runs $20,000-$45,000. Factor these costs into your total budget from the start.

Texas Permits and Legal Requirements

Texas has specific regulations governing manufactured home transport and installation. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) oversees manufactured housing in the state, and you must comply with their requirements:

1. Transport permit — Required from TxDMV for any oversize load on Texas highways. Your moving company typically handles this.
2. Installation license — The company setting up your home must hold a valid TDHCA installer's license. Never hire an unlicensed installer, as it can void warranties and create liability issues.
3. Title transfer — You must transfer the home's title through TxDMV within 60 days of purchase. If the home will be placed on land you own and permanently affixed, you can apply to cancel the title and convert the home to real property through the Statement of Ownership and Location (SOL) process.
4. Local building permits — Your destination county or city may require additional permits for foundation work, utility connections, and the home placement itself. Check with your local building department before the move date.

Hiring Licensed Movers

In Texas, manufactured home transporters must be licensed and insured. When selecting a mover, verify their TDHCA license, ask for proof of insurance (minimum $300,000 liability coverage is required by Texas law), request references from recent moves, and get a detailed written estimate that specifies what is and isn't included. Be cautious of quotes that seem significantly lower than competitors, as they may not include essential services like disconnecting utilities, removing skirting, or obtaining permits.

Book your mover well in advance, especially during spring and summer when demand peaks. Most reputable Texas movers need 2-4 weeks of lead time to schedule your transport.

Preparing Your New Site

Your destination site needs to be ready before the home arrives. Site preparation includes clearing and grading the land to create a level pad, installing the foundation system (piers, runners, or a concrete slab), running utility lines to the home's connection points, and ensuring road access is wide enough for the transport vehicle. For rural Texas properties, site prep can be one of the larger expenses if significant grading or utility extension is needed.

Selling a Home to Be Moved

If you're on the selling side, listing your manufactured home "to be moved" can be an effective strategy when you need the lot cleared or when the home's current location limits its value. Price the home to account for the buyer's moving costs. Research comparable "to be moved" sales in your area and price competitively. Ensure you have a clear title ready for transfer, and be upfront about any known issues with the home's condition.

Need help buying or selling a manufactured home to be moved in Texas? Mobile Buy Buy specializes in these transactions. Call us at (737) 777-9437 for expert guidance through every step of the process.