6 Things to Know About Manufactured Homes
Rising home prices and limited housing supplies have left homebuyers feeling pinched, but relief may be coming from an unexpected option: Manufactured homes. Once seen as a poor substitute for a “real” house, manufactured homes are increasingly being seen as a flexible, affordable housing option that tracks with growing trends toward minimalism, downsizing, and reducing one’s ecological footprint. One survey showed that 77% of respondents had an overall positive perception of manufactured homes, and 62% said they were likely to consider purchasing one … a number that rose to 68% for millennials.
If you’re thinking about buying a manufactured home … or if you’ve never thought of it as an option … check out these fast facts on this emerging trend.
1. Manufactured homes aren’t mobile homes.
Manufactured homes and mobile homes share key similarities, but the terms are not interchangeable. In both cases, the home is built off site on a chassis and transported to a home site. But manufactured homes are typically moved once and then established on a permanent foundation, while mobile homes are designed to be moved multiple times.
2. Manufactured homes are safe and regulated.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers a federal building code for manufactured homes, and all such homes must comply with HUD and local building standards covering fire resistance, energy efficiency, and safety. Manufactured homes built after 1994 are built on solid steel frames and have been designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 100 to 130 mph, depending on the model.
3. You can customize your floor plan and even add on a porch, deck, or garage.
A surprising array of options for square footage, features, and upgrades. Some models have vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, recessed bathtubs, hardwood floors, ceiling fans, and enhanced insulation and energy efficiency. Bottom line … these are not the flimsy, shotgun-style trailer homes of yesteryear.
4. Finding a location for a manufactured home takes some effort … and cost.
Because a manufactured home doesn’t come with a lot, you’ll need to rent space in a home park or buy land on which to establish a home site. The Sales Specialists at Pacific Manufactured Homes can help you in this process. If you are thinking of buying land, location is very important and there are many things to consider including a site survey, permits, and utilities. Pacific Manufactured Homes can manage this process for you - We do it all the time.
5. Manufactured homes aren’t limited to rural areas.
California has significantly loosened the regulations on building homes, particularly building accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on existing land. In fact, if you live in the suburbs, you have probably seen an ADU (a.k.s, granny flat) being built in a neighbor's backyard. These homes are perfect for elderly parents, guests, and for income property! Each city has its own guidelines, and your friendly sales specialist at Pacific Manufactured Homes will be happy to discuss these with you.
6. In many cases, you can get a mortgage for a manufactured home.
There are many types of loans for Manufactured Homes including FHA, VA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and more. Pacific Manufactured Homes makes financing your home easy with our in-house finance department. If you would like to fill out a credit application, just give us a call or send an email and we can help you take your first step toward owning a Manufactured Homes.