LOST VIN

[VALORIE MENDIOLA]

Hello Chrissy,

I am at my wits end. I am trying to purchase a 1992 Commadore Model VU185 manufactured home which is a reposessed HUD home. I have aquired lending and gotten a final approval to close from my lender. Now HUD is telling me that a newer federal law inacted in 2003 states that all mnfct. home sales must apply for a new certificate of title every time they are purchased. In order to get this I must have a VIN number. The broker I am working with on my loan has tried everything, from a title search, to calling the Motor Vehicle Dept., to the manufacturer (out of business). The motor vehicle dept. said that they did not start recording VIN numbers on the computer until 2000. The title search came up with nothing concerning the VIN, just the serial number. The home had a fire 2 years ago, and I am afraid the VIN label may have been in the room with the fire, on the siding, etc. I have searched every inch of the home including the frame and can not find this info. We have the serial number and since HUD owns the home there is no problems with a possible "shady" ownership. So in essence, the federal law prohibits its own agency from selling this home, which is owned by HUD without information that is impossible to obtain. This is absolutely CRAZY!! Do you have any suggestions? The home is located in, and originally titled in Knox (Starke County), Indiana.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Or any other agencies I may contact. I have emailed the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association so far hoping for help. Should I get an attorney to help? Do you know where the VIN may be located on Commadore Model VU185 homes? Can the courthouse issue a "new" VIN in Indiana?

Val

[Mark]

The vin is usually stamped on the frame, near the tounge.

[rmurray]

The "VIN number" is the "seriel number" on the title...You have all you need..

[cmtfromga]

Did you find the information you were looking for regarding the Vin/Serial number. I had the same problem. Look at the letter that is for Missing Hud Plates and Vin #. There is help out there. Feel free to contact me if I can help you with the information I have obtained.

[Pete]

Im having a similiar problem, but with absolutely no information on my mobil home.
the vin/serial number I have been told is on the tongue of the home, however mine is burried in concrete. Do you have any more information on" Now HUD is telling me that a newer federal law inacted in 2003 states that all mnfct. home sales must apply for a new certificate of title every time they are purchased" as this is news to me but could be a serious concern. I know that a new vin # is possible from the license branch, havent been thru this yet to know pit falls.

[Pete]

Didnt understand your response to Val " Look at the letter that is for Missing Hud Plates and Vin #. Im having a similiar problem however Im trying to sell. If there is help out there direct me please.