Manufactured Homes

June 25, 2008 in Uncategorized
Tags: manufactured homes, modular homes

Manufactured home dealers provide manufactured homes that fit almost everyone?s tastes and pocket. Some are designed for those on a limited budget. Other models offer luxurious features at a higher price. The home can be a single-section unit or a large multi-section unit. You have the option of choosing from a wide variety of home styles. There are more than a hundred and fifty companies dealing with manufactured homes and more than four hundred factories located throughout the United States which manufacture them.

Modular vs. Manufactured

Both are built in the factory, which is why the two types are often confused. Manufactured homes, sometimes called Mobile homes, are built only to the federal building code (HUD) and do not have to meet the code requirements of the specific destination where the home will be erected. Under HUD requirements, it is also not mandatory that inspectors approve the structure. The building requirements under HUD code are often more lax. For example, manufactured homes are only required to use 2″ x 2″ studs in the walls, whereas modular homes in New Orleans must use 2″ x 4″ studs.

Modular homes are, like manufactured homes in that they are built in the factory, but have to pass a much stricter set of guidelines. Modular homes are held to the same IRC code requirements as site built homes, and must adhere to state and local codes of the final destination of the home. These homes often have the same longevity of site built homes and therefore will appreciate as investments.

When buying a manufactured home, you have to keep the prices in mind. The sales price for a new manufactured home ranges from under $25,000 for a single-section home with basic features to prices in excess of $100,000 for a deluxe multi-section home. Depending on the location and excluding the cost of land, construction cost per square foot for a new manufactured home averages anywhere from 10 to 35 percent less than a comparable site-built home. A manufactured home is the answer if you are looking for a first home, a larger home for your growing family, or the perfect retirement home.