Manufactured Housing: Custom Homes Without the Premium Price
Source: The Seattle Times – (content provided by NORTHWEST HOUSING ASSOCIATION)
Manufactured Homes offer two things buyers find very appealing — the ability to customize and a cost-per-square-foot that is much lower than other new construction.
Ordering a prefab home may seem leading edge, but manufactured homes already make up 10% of new construction in the U.S. Buyers place orders at local retailers where they can tour model homes (often from several manufacturers), look at floor plans and pick out cabinets, trim, flooring, and other options. And, if a homeowner wants to remove a wall from the floor plan, have a 9-foot ceiling, or turn their bath into a spa – they can.
“Consumers want homes truly customized to their lifestyles and taste and builders have responded with new flexibility in design,” says Joan Brown of the Northwest Housing Association.
MORE HOUSE FOR THE MONEY
Along with custom features, house buyers also want value. Factory construction means homebuilders don’t have to wait on weather delays, overbooked subcontractors, and lost materials. Streamlined manufacturing delivers significant savings, reducing the cost of constructing manufactured homes to $50 to $75 per square foot or half the cost of site-built homes. This is without land and site prep costs, which vary by location.
“Money that might be lost to delays and waste can go to home upgrades or stay in the buyer’s pocket, Brown adds, noting that factory construction also offers reliable project management, inspections, and timely delivery.
ADDING LONG-TERM VALUE
Brown suggests that homebuyers add custom features that increase their home’s value in the long run. After all, for most people, their home is their largest investment. “Adding a garage or upgrading your energy package will make your home more enjoyable, add resale value and save money over time,” Brown says.
Comparison shopping helps buyers make smart choices. Different manufacturers and sales centers offer different features and services. Buyers should plan on visiting several manufactured home retailers and asking about standard and custom features before making a decision.
The Northwest Housing Association is the official representative of the systems-built housing industry in the state of Washington. Members include manufactured and modular home builders, retail centers, brokers, developers, financial institutions, and suppliers of goods and services.
Here at MANUFACTUREDHOMES.com, we are the nation’s largest source for “everything manufactured housing has to offer.” Home shoppers are invited to review a comprehensive number of informational blogs, explore 1000’s of floor plans, models, construction specifications, and an expansive library of 3D virtual tours (10.3 million views – and still counting). Enter your location on the home page search bar to explore a wide selection of homes available near you. Find a home (or homes) you love and request a no-obligation Custom Price Quote from the comfort and privacy of home.
