How to avoid bad actors when selling a Missouri mobile home

Warning signs

• A fee up front for an offer, an inspection, or 'processing.'
• Pressure to sign the same day, especially with a deadline that only benefits the buyer.
• Asking you to sign a title with the buyer's name left blank.
• Wanting to move in or start work before closing.
• No written agreement, or one that changes without explanation at signing.
• An offer that changes sharply at the last minute over something they could have seen in your photos.

Questions any serious buyer can answer

• Who exactly is buying — what entity name goes on the title?
• How and when are funds delivered?
• How will the lien on the record be released, and who is responsible?
• Who handles the park's approval, and what happens if they decline?
• Who pays back taxes, back lot rent and removal costs?
• What happens if you back out — and what happens if I do?

Protect yourself the boring way

Keep copies of everything you sign. Do not release the title until you have payment. If anything feels rushed, slow it down — a legitimate buyer will accept a few days' delay, and a bad one will reveal themselves by refusing.