Expert: Dick Dennis - 7/8/2008

Question
QUESTION: My husband I purchased 5 acres with a 2001 mobile on it.  We bought the property with the intent to sell the mobile and keep the land for ag use.  We found out that the title company did not do anything with the mobile home title.  It is apparently still titled to the previous owner.  Now, we cant sell it.  We have been unsuccessful in finding the previous owner.  We're tried all sort of ways to find him and just cant!  How can we get title in our name without finding him?????

ANSWER: You bought it from SOMEBODY. Whoever handled the sale must know where the previous owner lives. If not check with the department of vehicles. Chances they are like we here in California that mobile homes are handled by the DMV. They would most likely have the proper documents to allow you to take ownership legally. I do wish you well.

Dick Dennis

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Neither my real estate agent, his real estate agent or the title company can help.  I also got a lawyer involved that couldn't help.  We cant find the guy.  All involved knew our intent was to buy the trailer ....and we did......it's just that the title company we used does not handle title transfer on mobiles.  But, they did not tell us that during closing.  No one can find the guy.  I am sure he thinks we have title to the trailer.  I'm sure he has no idea it is still in his name.  
I will try the DMV, I guess.  At least they may have a new address for him.  However, I sort of doubt they will release that address to me.  
Any other ideas?  What if the guy was dead?  How would it be handled then?

Answer
The DMV will have your answer, Cheryl. I am really surprised that your real estate agent and lawyer were not able to help. In fact, I am surprised that the transaction even closed without that information you want. The title company was more involved with the land parcel. The closing agent, whoever it was, should have put the who transaction together, including the owner of the mobile home. Here in California, we call those people who put the whole transaction together (with the help of your agent) ESCROW Companies. I do wish you well, Cheryl.


Dick Dennis