Licensing & RFGs
Nevada RFG Change of Ownership (CHOW): Step-by-Step Timeline
In Nevada the buyer of an RFG files a change-of-ownership (CHOW) application with HCQC through the state's online licensing system. HCQC requires a bill of sale for a CHOW, showing the buyer and seller, the sale date, a description of the transaction, the price and both signatures, plus the same core documents as a new licence. The state does not publish a fixed processing time, so the sale should be structured around the buyer's licensing approval rather than a fixed calendar date.
Short answer
In Nevada the buyer of an RFG files a change-of-ownership (CHOW) application with HCQC through the state's online licensing system. HCQC requires a bill of sale for a CHOW, showing the buyer and seller, the sale date, a description of the transaction, the price and both signatures, plus the same core documents as a new licence. The state does not publish a fixed processing time, so the sale should be structured around the buyer's licensing approval rather than a fixed calendar date.
Last reviewed 2026-10-17 by Jas Singh, Nevada Care Home Broker.
What is the usual order of steps?
The sequence below reflects how HCQC's CHOW requirements fit into a typical sale. It is a planning order, not an official timetable.
- 1. Confidential valuation and records preparation by the seller
- 2. Buyer screening for funding and licensability
- 3. Letter of intent, then a purchase agreement with licensing contingencies
- 4. Buyer forms the Nevada entity and obtains a Nevada State Business License
- 5. Buyer secures zoning evidence, insurance, surety bond and a lease or deed for the location
- 6. Buyer files the CHOW application with the bill of sale and supporting documents
- 7. Background checks and State Fire Marshal inspection
- 8. HCQC review and decision
- 9. Closing and handover of residents, staff and records
How long does a CHOW take?
HCQC does not publish a guaranteed processing time. An incomplete packet is returned to the applicant, so the most reliable way to shorten the timeline is filing early with every checklist item in place.
Why does the bill of sale matter?
HCQC's CHOW checklist calls for a bill of sale with information about the buyer and seller, the date of the sale, a description of the transaction, the price and signatures from both parties. The purchase documents therefore need to be ready before the application can be complete.
Sources: Nevada Bureau of Health Care Quality and Compliance (HCQC) RFG and licensing pages, NRS 449.017, NAC 449.011. General guidance, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with HCQC and your own counsel.
This page is general information about Nevada care home and Residential Facility for Groups transactions and is not legal, tax or licensing advice. Confirm current licensing requirements with the State of Nevada and your own advisers.
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