Manufactured Homes: Frequently Asked Questions Part II

On May 9th of this year I posted an article on this site titled “Frequently Asked Questions.”  Recently I was informed by a retailer of manufactured homes that there were more questions posed by prospective home buyers that are also frequently asked.  Without seeming redundant here are some additional inquiries that are often posed to the retailer.

If you have decided a manufactured home may be the home choice for you, but you want to know more about the purchase and move in process, read on to find answers to more frequently asked questions.

Is a manufactured home a good investment?

Generally a manufactured home is a great investment.  Appreciation of both manufactured housing and site-built housing is affected by the same factors: the stability of the community (subdivision, neighborhood), supply and demand in the local market, type of home, and location. Today’s manufactured home can appreciate in the same way as site-built.

Can I customize a manufactured home to make it my own?

You bet!  With all the options available to the consumer, manufactured homes allow for great diversity in home design. Choose from spacious floor plans, vaulted or cathedral ceilings,walk-in closets, name-brand appliances, customization packages, whirlpool tubs and upgrades. In addition, exterior designs are available and compatible with almost any neighborhood.

How long will it take to get my home?

From as little as one week for an in-stock home being moved and installed into a land-lease community to six to eight weeks for a special order home. It may take up to two months or more for a special factory ordered home being placed over a basement on private property.  Mortgage approval and site work can extend the timetable.

What’s the difference between a multi-section home and a single section home?

A multi-section home is a manufactured home delivered to the home site in two or three sections.  The average size of a multi-section home is 1725 square feet and the average sales price is $69,600 — not including an attached garage.  A single section is a manufactured home delivered to the home site in one, intact section.  The average size of a single section home is 1080 square feet and the average sales price is $33, 800.

Do I have to finance my home through a mobile home dealer?

Your dealer/retailer can arrange financing.  However, if you prefer, you may choose to finance your home through an outside lender such as a bank, credit union, or mortgage company.

What warranty coverage is offered on the home, its transportation and installation?

Unlike site-built homes, all manufacturers offer a written warranty that should cover structural, defects in material and workmanship, factory installed plumbing, heating and electrical systems, and factory installed appliances. Manufacturers usually do not cover installation and transportation of the home, but you may get this coverage through your retailer or contractor.  Be sure to check coverage before you buy.

Do I arrange for site improvement/basement building if my home is going to be on a private lot?

A professional, licensed building contractor should arrange for site improvements, a basement, or crawl space. Your dealer/retailer may have a contractor on staff or can recommend a general contractor to meet your needs. At no time is it recommended that a non-licensed person be responsible for the site improvements or setup of your manufactured home.

Where can I find more information about manufactured homes?

You’ve just found it!  ManufacturedHomes.com is dedicated to “all things” manufactured homes. This site is a comprehensive source on all aspects of the manufactured housing lifestyle. All of the questions above and any other questions you might have can be explored in depth, by reviewing the blog postings contained within the articles, exclusively at this site. I would suggest printing copies on any articles for review that may interest you as you shop for your dream home.