Bills of Sale in Florida
A bill of sale is a written instrument that documents the transfer of personal property ownership from seller to buyer. In Florida, bills of sale are required for certain transactions and recommended for all significant personal property transfers.
Required Uses
Florida requires bills of sale for motor vehicle transfers (accompanying the title application to the DHSMV), vessel transfers, and bulk business asset sales. The document provides the legal foundation for the transfer and establishes the purchase price for tax purposes. Florida imposes sales tax on most personal property transfers, calculated from the bill of sale price.
Contents and Warranties
The seller typically warrants that they own the property, have the right to sell it, and that the property is free of liens and encumbrances (unless disclosed). "As-is" language disclaims warranties about the property's condition but does not affect the seller's title warranty. Buyers should verify the seller's ownership and check for liens before completing the purchase.
Related Terms
Barnes Walker Business Law
Barnes Walker handles business asset transfers and commercial transactions in Florida. Contact us for transactional guidance.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC