Modular homes are houses built in factories and then transported to and assembled at the housing site. Modular homes are different from mobile homes and site-built homes.
The term "site-built" refers to the construction of new houses in the open, at the housing sites, at the mercy of both the climate and the builder. They have to generally adhere to state, local and regional codes and specifications. For example, earthquake-prone areas may require special facilities. Such houses are also called "stick-built" houses and often have rising value in the real estate market - especially for site value.
Mobile homes are also completely factory- and offsite-manufactured, but are built on a non-removable steel chassis. They adhere to a federal code, called the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code, rather than to the local codes where they move about. They are cheaper than site-built houses and modular houses, and decrease in value over time.
Modular homes, on the other hand, are built in sections in a factory. They are built to conform to all of the local, regional and state building codes for where they are finally located. Sections are transported from the manufacturing site to the building sites on truck beds and then are joined together by local contractors. The building is then laid out by a crane to an existing foundation.
Modular homes have several advantages that are making them increasingly popular. Modular homes tend to be twenty- to forty-percent cheaper than site built homes. This is because modular homes boast a variety of cost savings. The main reason for this is that large-scale manufacturers can get favorable terms for supply of materials in bulk.
Also, indoor manufacturing of the house components means that they are safe from problems related to weather and climate. This is a major problem of site-built houses, for which work is delayed often by weather or vandalism.
Waste from a modular home unit is miniscule compared to waste generated by site-built homes. Also, factory workers are highly trained for specialized manufacturing tasks. In comparison, site-building is entrusted to contractors who employ unskilled, temporary labor.
Modular homes are built in an offsite, quality controlled environment. The main advantage is that they can be built in half the time, while meeting the same quality standard.
Modular homes can be customer-designed. The time saving is immense: modular homes take thirty to ninety days for completion, compared to six to nine months for site-built houses. Typically, a two story, 2000 square-foot home can be constructed in a factory in a single week!
Modular homes are growing more popular by the day. In 2002, three percent of new homes in the U.S. were modular homes, and the northeastern states accounted for the highest modular home activity. The states in which modular housing was most popular were North Carolina, Michigan, and New York.
Modular Homes provides detailed information about modular homes, modular home builders, modular home loans and more. Modular Homes is affiliated with Storage Sheds.
Luxury Modular Homes
Modular homes are made of units called modules, shipped to a building site and assembled. They are of different types, structures, designs and budgets.
The modular home method combines the benefits of engineering and shop floor manufacturing to produce high quality homes. Compared to traditional, stick-built homes, the method yields considerable savings in time, cost, waste generation, etc.
As modular home dealer Andrew Gianino points out, modular homes have the advantages of a trained and experienced work force, large and sophisticated production machinery, precision jig assembly, high-quality kiln-dried lumber, and construction done indoors in climate-protected facilities. There is adherence to local building codes, superior energy efficiency, and strict quality control systems.
As modular homes first became popular in the 1060s, they were considered low-quality, affordable substitutes for stick-built homes. But today they are available in very high-quality and varying, luxurious and creative designs.
All manufacturers have some standard and traditional designs. But they also supplement these designs with many architect-designed variations. Many architects have now begun to design modular homes. Manufacturers have learned to use wood and steel beams in their floor plans, and they have borrowed from both classical and contemporary designs to give their homes beautiful exteriors. Modular homes today are embellished by Cathedral ceilings, reversed gables and other exciting designs.
Many manufacturers allow the customer to custom-design their own modular homes. Computer aided design (CAD) has made it possible to prepare custom floor plans accurately. Manufacturers routinely customize the modular homes according to a customer's choice. Luxury features like skylights, central vacuum cleaning, whirlpool tubs, and bay and bow windows are added on by designers.
Modular homes today can be built to any specification or size. From a one-and-a-half split level ranch to a grand 4000 sq. ft. luxury condo, the modular industry has a wide range of options. Amenities like granite-topped kitchen counter tops and hardwood floors are also available. In sum, modular-built houses can be every bit as luxurious as stick-built houses.
Modular Homes provides detailed information about modular homes, modular home builders, modular home loans and more. Modular Homes is affiliated with Storage Sheds.
The modular home method combines the benefits of engineering and shop floor manufacturing to produce high quality homes. Compared to traditional, stick-built homes, the method yields considerable savings in time, cost, waste generation, etc.
As modular home dealer Andrew Gianino points out, modular homes have the advantages of a trained and experienced work force, large and sophisticated production machinery, precision jig assembly, high-quality kiln-dried lumber, and construction done indoors in climate-protected facilities. There is adherence to local building codes, superior energy efficiency, and strict quality control systems.
As modular homes first became popular in the 1060s, they were considered low-quality, affordable substitutes for stick-built homes. But today they are available in very high-quality and varying, luxurious and creative designs.
All manufacturers have some standard and traditional designs. But they also supplement these designs with many architect-designed variations. Many architects have now begun to design modular homes. Manufacturers have learned to use wood and steel beams in their floor plans, and they have borrowed from both classical and contemporary designs to give their homes beautiful exteriors. Modular homes today are embellished by Cathedral ceilings, reversed gables and other exciting designs.
Many manufacturers allow the customer to custom-design their own modular homes. Computer aided design (CAD) has made it possible to prepare custom floor plans accurately. Manufacturers routinely customize the modular homes according to a customer's choice. Luxury features like skylights, central vacuum cleaning, whirlpool tubs, and bay and bow windows are added on by designers.
Modular homes today can be built to any specification or size. From a one-and-a-half split level ranch to a grand 4000 sq. ft. luxury condo, the modular industry has a wide range of options. Amenities like granite-topped kitchen counter tops and hardwood floors are also available. In sum, modular-built houses can be every bit as luxurious as stick-built houses.
Modular Homes provides detailed information about modular homes, modular home builders, modular home loans and more. Modular Homes is affiliated with Storage Sheds.
What is a Modular Home?
You may be looking into modular homes, but are not exactly sure what differentiates a modular from a stick built or a manufactured home. The short answer is that a modular home is a home that is primarily built in a factory in sections and then pieced together at the job site. That description leaves a lot of unanswered questions that someone considering building one needs answered. I will try to answer some of those questions now.
What is the difference between a modular home and a site built home?
A site built home is built at the job site to the local building code. Meaning, the walls are framed, floor joists set, etc. on location. A modular home is also built to the local building codes, but is built in a factory. When the sections are pieced together (usually with a crane) and permanently attached to the foundation, there is still work to be completed at the job site. This work includes finishing the shingle work where the sections meet, finishing the drywall where the sections meet, building decks or patios, hooking the plumbing from the house to the rough plumbing below the home, hooking up utilities and building a staircase to the basement. One of the key things to remember when comparing these two methods of construction is that both are built to meet or exceed the local building code. The difference in quality between the two therefore rests on the quality of the builder, whether it is a traditional site built home or a modular home.
What is the difference between a modular home and a manufactured home?
A manufactured home is built in a factory in sections like a modular home. The two major differences are that manufactured homes are built to the HUD building code and they are not permanently attached to the foundation. Simply put, homes built to the HUD code are not built to the same strength standards as homes built to the building codes which are most commonly used throughout the US. Unlike a modular home, manufactured homes can be moved at a later date. This is why they used to be called trailers or mobile homes. For this reason, they are classified as personal property and not real estate.
What are the benefits of a modular home?
1. Strength - Modular homes must be built strong to withstand transit and being lifted with a crane. Many modular homes have most structural wood attached together in 3 ways - glued, screwed and strapped. This goes beyond building codes, but is necessary for this type of home.
2. Cost - There is often a cost savings when comparing modular homes to site built homes. This savings is due to efficiency in materials usage inherent in building in a factory. Also, materials are bought in bulk which translates to a cost savings. When building a home indoors, there are no weather delays. By speeding up construction time, there is a cost savings in interest payments on the construction loan.
3. Fewer Contractors to Manage - This probably does not matter if you are not acting as the general contractor for your house. If you are, this makes the job much easier.
4. Speed of Construction - Not counting any backlog, all of the sections of a modular home can be built in two weeks. This speeds up the time of the entire project considerably.
To sum it up, modular homes are built in a unique manner and definitely have a number of benefits over the alternatives. The type of home that is best suited for you though depends on many variables - budget, building site, location, local regulations, just to name a few. Good luck choosing your new home!
What is the difference between a modular home and a site built home?
A site built home is built at the job site to the local building code. Meaning, the walls are framed, floor joists set, etc. on location. A modular home is also built to the local building codes, but is built in a factory. When the sections are pieced together (usually with a crane) and permanently attached to the foundation, there is still work to be completed at the job site. This work includes finishing the shingle work where the sections meet, finishing the drywall where the sections meet, building decks or patios, hooking the plumbing from the house to the rough plumbing below the home, hooking up utilities and building a staircase to the basement. One of the key things to remember when comparing these two methods of construction is that both are built to meet or exceed the local building code. The difference in quality between the two therefore rests on the quality of the builder, whether it is a traditional site built home or a modular home.
What is the difference between a modular home and a manufactured home?
A manufactured home is built in a factory in sections like a modular home. The two major differences are that manufactured homes are built to the HUD building code and they are not permanently attached to the foundation. Simply put, homes built to the HUD code are not built to the same strength standards as homes built to the building codes which are most commonly used throughout the US. Unlike a modular home, manufactured homes can be moved at a later date. This is why they used to be called trailers or mobile homes. For this reason, they are classified as personal property and not real estate.
What are the benefits of a modular home?
1. Strength - Modular homes must be built strong to withstand transit and being lifted with a crane. Many modular homes have most structural wood attached together in 3 ways - glued, screwed and strapped. This goes beyond building codes, but is necessary for this type of home.
2. Cost - There is often a cost savings when comparing modular homes to site built homes. This savings is due to efficiency in materials usage inherent in building in a factory. Also, materials are bought in bulk which translates to a cost savings. When building a home indoors, there are no weather delays. By speeding up construction time, there is a cost savings in interest payments on the construction loan.
3. Fewer Contractors to Manage - This probably does not matter if you are not acting as the general contractor for your house. If you are, this makes the job much easier.
4. Speed of Construction - Not counting any backlog, all of the sections of a modular home can be built in two weeks. This speeds up the time of the entire project considerably.
To sum it up, modular homes are built in a unique manner and definitely have a number of benefits over the alternatives. The type of home that is best suited for you though depends on many variables - budget, building site, location, local regulations, just to name a few. Good luck choosing your new home!
Tim Montey is a modular home enthusiast who built his first modular home two years ago. If you are looking to learn more about what is a modular home, you will find that at his website: http://www.modularhomechoice.com
Tips On Finding Good Modular Home Dealers
The modular home dealers are plentiful but choosing one that is right for your needs may be a little hard to find unless you know what to look for. You will want a dealer that you can feel will support you in your efforts to find the perfect modular home for your needs and will also provide you with a good price. Its not like looking for a new car or an appliance because there are not special magazines that give you comparisons on the dealers or that will give you good ideas about which one is best.Your search will become frustrating because like any builder of homes, each dealer does have a different degree of skill and offer a little different kind of service. Each modular home construction company may use different materials as well as different techniques which makes the pricing very dissimilar. The pricing really will depend on the materials and how they use them. To make things even more confusing you will find there are a variety of package opportunities with each dealer which will also be varied.All this leaves the average consumer wondering where they should start in the process of finding their perfect home. You will need to have financing, your budget set, a good building site, and the plans you want for your new home but more importantly you will need a good dealer to get started.If you understand the things that a good dealer should provide for you then it will be easier to choose the right dealer for your needs. Once you know what each should be providing as far as pricing and service and products then you can make a better evaluation of what they each offer.Ask as many questions as you can about the homes, the materials, the service and pricing and ask to see the credentials of the dealer with whom you want to work. You should always ask to see some references from their past customers and then call a couple of these references to see what these people thing about the homes and the dealer service.As you begin your process for finding your quality dealer you will see there are several. The dealer that you choose really needs to have extensive knowledge of their service, their products and the availability of the products they offer. The best dealer will have no problem with being patient and answering all your questions in detail. You will have a lot of details to handle in order to have your modular home built on your lot and you will want to have confidence in your dealer to walk you through every detail.Every dealer should be able to provide you with estimated pricing and an estimated time of delivery. This is a ballpark figure without many details but it will be sufficient to use to compare different dealers and the deals that they have to offer.
For information and tips on modular home builders and modular home sales visit Modular Home
Prefabricated Homes - Modular Homes Vs Manufactured Homes
When getting the most for your dollars really counts, it pays to know what you're shopping for. When it comes to new homes, a mistake can be very costly. Over the years of coaching people in their purchases and home building projects, I've learned what confuses people the most. And how to help them.
One of the most common questions centers around how prefabricated homes are classified for appraisals and lending purposes. Can you answer it? You'll know now!
Question: What's the difference between Modular Homes and Manufactured Homes?
Answer:
I've found that many people are just not sure. There's plenty of confusion to go around. Just what is the difference between a modular and manufactured home? Or, is there a difference?
Yes, there most definitely is a significant difference between them. It's not entirely a quality issue either. Here's what I mean.
A Different Home Classification
The underlying issue is the category under which they fall. A manufactured home is not considered a true, stick built/site built home. They are technically considered impermanent "vehicles" on wheels and as such, they do not have the same appraised value as a site built/stick built home. Nor do they hold their appraised values over the long haul.
Modular homes, on the other hand, are considered stick built homes just as a true "site-built" home would be. And, as such, are normally appraised in the same fashion, given the same value, and hold their appraised value the same as a traditional site built home.
It's Not a Question of Quality
If you've shopped for manufactured homes, you've probably been impressed with their apparent quality. While that's good, it doesn't change their classification. So, even though many manufactured homes have increased their quality in recent years, you should be aware that a poorer appraisal is likely and that declining values over the years is extremely likely.
What is your goal? Are you thinking about long-term value? If choosing between a modular and a manufactured home, you need to focus on your priorities in order to make the right decision for you.
In my experience over many years, when selecting between these two choices, if you're looking for long term value over mobility, I'd go with a modular home every single time.
Do your research and decide what's important to you.
One of the most common questions centers around how prefabricated homes are classified for appraisals and lending purposes. Can you answer it? You'll know now!
Question: What's the difference between Modular Homes and Manufactured Homes?
Answer:
I've found that many people are just not sure. There's plenty of confusion to go around. Just what is the difference between a modular and manufactured home? Or, is there a difference?
Yes, there most definitely is a significant difference between them. It's not entirely a quality issue either. Here's what I mean.
A Different Home Classification
The underlying issue is the category under which they fall. A manufactured home is not considered a true, stick built/site built home. They are technically considered impermanent "vehicles" on wheels and as such, they do not have the same appraised value as a site built/stick built home. Nor do they hold their appraised values over the long haul.
Modular homes, on the other hand, are considered stick built homes just as a true "site-built" home would be. And, as such, are normally appraised in the same fashion, given the same value, and hold their appraised value the same as a traditional site built home.
It's Not a Question of Quality
If you've shopped for manufactured homes, you've probably been impressed with their apparent quality. While that's good, it doesn't change their classification. So, even though many manufactured homes have increased their quality in recent years, you should be aware that a poorer appraisal is likely and that declining values over the years is extremely likely.
What is your goal? Are you thinking about long-term value? If choosing between a modular and a manufactured home, you need to focus on your priorities in order to make the right decision for you.
In my experience over many years, when selecting between these two choices, if you're looking for long term value over mobility, I'd go with a modular home every single time.
Do your research and decide what's important to you.
We'd like to give you a FREE email course called "Dream Home Creation" that you can find by clicking here http://DreamHomeCreation.com The order button is on the upper right corner of the page. Again, there is no charge or obligation. You will also find other tips and tools, surveys, and additional articles by Mel Inglima.
Creating Modular Home Plans For Your Prospective New Home
There is a big difference between a mobile home and a manufactured home. The modular home comes in almost any size or shape while the mobile home is very limited. Ordering your modular home is ordering a custom created home according to the modular home plans that you choose for your building site.The plans that can be designed for the modular home are anything from the simplest little cottage type home to the most modern and elegant home. There are a large variety of pre-designed plans that you might choose to use that are created to make a very sensible design that makes good use of every inch of space.The smaller home designs will be around 1000 square feet while the largest ones are around 6000 square feet will with every convenience of any other type of home. The larger home will have separate living rooms, dining rooms, family room, up to five bedrooms, a library and even a breakfast nook all as part of the pre-designed plan. You can choose to make any of the pre-done plans uniquely yours by adding or subtracting design features to suit our own tastes and needs.The modules that are created from the design plan is done at the factory and then transported to your building site. Almost ninety percent of the modules are completed before they are even delivered to your property. When the section arrives, they are complete with both exterior and interior almost finished need just some touch-ups to finish the building. The seams are careful constructed and even the cabinets and fixtures with painted walls are ready to use on arrival.The modular homes will come so competed with details they will have angled walls, lots of sophisticated detailing like the ceiling treatments, French doors, and even the crown molding. These special embellishments can also be part of a smaller home if you want this in our design plan. This makes it easy to take a basic design plan for either a smaller, more reasonably priced home or the larger elaborate home and add as many details as you like.Again, the modular homes are constructed according to the building plans that you have either created or modified. The means that the simplest design can be made very elaborate with your ideas included in the design. You make the choices for the color schemes, the flooring, fixtures, windows, cabinets and all the details while the home is still in the planning stage of production.After your plans for the home are completed the factory will build your home according to the choices you have made for your home in a short time. Once it is transported to the building site it will be just a week or two before it is ready to move in.
For information and tips on modular homes builders and modular homes sales visit Modular Homes
Why Modular Home Prices Can Be So Affordable
More than one in four of every family home purchased in the US is modular builds. Much of this is due to the competitive pricing of the product. Whilst this is very good for all home buyers, it can still be unclear as to why modular home prices are so cheap. What makes them so well priced though; is also beneficial in a host of other ways.As the name would suggest, modular homes are constructed in modules. This is competed in an assembly line environment; more associated with auto building and the like. It is an efficient way of working; just ask Ford, and drives costs down. It also reduces the amount of delays, as there is no reliance on the weather, which again, results in lower modular home prices.Despite the prices being kept affordable, there are no shortcomings in the quality of the product; indeed, it could well be argued that the final product is better than that of conventional builds. They are constructed in a controlled environment of course.Further assurances in the build quality can be seen in the process that takes place when each module is delivered to the build site. These are thoroughly inspected by the manufacturers, and by independent quality controllers. Such a process is repeated through the entire build process too.Other benefits from modular homes also include the client's ability to customize them more easily than with site build projects. These can include fireplaces and hearths, state of the art furnishings and fittings, and artistic architectural creations. The modular home prices will of course rise depending on these customizations, but still come in cheaper than most standard onsite constructions.The time for a modular home to be delivered fully finished from point of order is approximately fourteen to sixteen weeks, though these will vary depending on the vagaries of each build of course.Final modular home prices vary of course, depending on the usual factors regards location, size, material and so on; but with all things considered tend to be at least ten percent cheaper than conventional builds. Greater savings can be made than this of course, right up to fifteen or twenty percent even.Whilst it is the competitive nature of modular home prices that are the headline, the manufacturing process also allows them to be extremely environmentally friendly with better insulation and less waste. This of course also allows them to not only save costs at point of purchase, but also through their lifespan.
For information and tips on modular home plans and modular home dealers visit Modular Homes
Things You Should Be Aware Of When It Comes To Choosing Modular Home Builders
Modular homes are normally assembled in a different location and taken to the site that you would like the home to be placed on, in order to get a modular home made you have to get into immediate contact with modular home builders.The person that is going to be responsible for building your modular home has a big task ahead of them. So you should pay close attention to the person that you decide to hire to build your home for you.Nothing should be more precious to you than the roof that is going to be constructed to go over your head. Choosing the right modular home builders is actually an extremely daunting task that should not be taken lightly.You will need to carefully evaluate modular home builders in order to find a crew that will work best for you. Inadvertently, anyone can proclaim that they can build a house to your standards the thing is proving that it can be done.Going through a screening process of all the applicants that are inquiring about building your home for you will help you get a good inclination on who you should choose from your precious project. You should be able to be open with your builder and ask them any questions that you may have concerning the construction process.Locating a builder that shows an avid amount of interest in constructing your home is the type of builder that you should opt to pursue. There are a lot of different builders that will offer to construct your modular home just to make a quick amount of money. It is inadvertently a sad but true realization.Upon selecting a builder to build your modular home for you, you should set down with the builder that you have chosen and go over contracts for the property and review over what you want done to the property.A persons home is their most prized possession. So you should assure that the person that you hire to build your modular home has an inclination of how important this home is going to be to you.You need to be able to find a builder that is going to listen to the way that you want your modular home to appear. Anyone can be caring and compassionate, but it takes a genuine modular home builder to actually care about their customers needs.
For information and tips on modular home floor plans and modular homes sales visit Modular Homes
Talking About Modular Homes
Just what is a Modular Home?
Modular homes are any home in which 80 to 95% of it is built in a factory. It is constructed in sections or modules. These modules are transported to a building site, placed on conventional foundations and assembled, where construction is completed. Unlike stick-built or site-built homes, modular building techniques are used, the on-site builders involvement is limited to excavation, final grading, construction of a suitable foundation, interior and exterior wall finish, HVAC hookup and connection to utilities.Modular Homes are NOT trailer homes, or mobile homes. Modular Homes are built to local building codes, not to the less stringent HUD code used by mobile home companies. There are no axles or telltale signs to indicate that a home is modular.
Can I tell the difference between a Modular Home and one constructed onsite?
You can't unless you see the house being constructed. There are no telltale seams, beams or lines, unless the builder used antiquated techniques. Modular builders use the same materials and used when constructing a site built home. When a home is completed you cannot distinguish between the two.Aren't the walls and materials lower quality?Absolutely not. Modular homes are constructed with 2x6 walls, and stronger materials so that the home can tolerate the rigors of being transported hundreds of miles. Most modular home factories use national brand name products to further enhance the quality of the finished product.
Can a modular home have a Basement?
Yes, and most of them do โ€" often with 9' high sidewalls, walk-out basements, and expanded living areas on lower levels โ€" but that is up to you, and your modular home builder.
Are modular homes are of inferior quality when compared to site built homes?
No - and arguably modular homes are of better quality. The two primary reasons for this are supervision and weather. Site built homes are subject to the elements. Modular homes are built in the controlled environment of the factory. This protects building materials from the harsh outdoor environment and enables laborers to work in comfortable environs improving the quality of their work. The second reason for the better quality of modular homes is the quality control programs used by modular manufacturers. Few builders who construct site built homes have a quality control manual or program in place. Modular builders do. Furthermore, regular inspections occur during the building of a modular home. In theory this is what your builder is supposed to do in the oversight of his subcontractors. In practice however these types of inspection are not done frequently or as well as it should be. Modular homes are inspected once on the assembly line, once more by a third party independent inspector required by the state in which the home is to be built, and lastly by the local building inspector โ€" for quality, as well as form, fit and accuracy.
Can modular homes be customized?
Yes, they can. Essentially the same design flexibility exists that you would have with a site built home. If you buy a site built home in a development you will have limited customization options. Similarly there are some modular manufacturers who offer a limited selection of models from which to choose.Conversely, there are modular builders, as there are site builders, who allow total discretion in the design and customization of a home. We often develop plans with the customer โ€œfrom scratchโ€ โ€" starting with an idea of the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and general concept of what the house is to be โ€" whether it is a ranch, rambler, cape cod style, two story, split level or something in between. Special needs, such as ADA compliance, with wider doorways, lower counters, roll-in showers, and other accessibility features are very important to customers in the same way the fireplaces, French doors, and spa style tubs are. If there is a feature in a stick built home, it can be built in a modular home.
How long does it take to build a Modular Home?
Modular home construction is much faster than site built homes. The typical rule of thumb for the building of a site built home is 4-6 months from ground breaking. A modular home can be completed in 1-2 months. There are several reasons for this. All of the trades required to build a site built home are employed at the factory so there is a reduced number of tradesman. Secondly many different tasks can be going on simultaneously in the factory. Lastly, some of the site work, like excavation and the pouring of the foundation are done prior to the time the house is delivered to the construction site.Compare this to the site built home where most tasks must be done sequentially. In total a few weeks is all that will be required to complete the modules that comprise a modular home. Once delivered on site the builder may have another few weeks to complete the finish work. Typically, customers can expect that it will take 4-6 weeks from time of order to time of delivery, and from time of delivery to completion, another 4-6 weeks.
Are modular homes difficult to finance?
No. That used to be the case, but the sheer number of modular homes being constructed, as well as the lending community's understanding of the quality of modular homes has all but eliminated any previously existing prejudice.
Do modular homes offer energy efficiency?
Modular homes are often able to achieve extremely high energy efficiency ratings, with some manufacturer's offering extremely high standards in their products. Expect to see R-19 to R-21 or better in walls, R-38 to R50 in roofs, and Low-E windows are almost standard in the modular industry. Talk to your builder to find out what features are standard, and which are options.
Are there differences in the permit requirements between site built and modular homes?
No, there are no differences. A modular home must conform or comply with the local building requirements of where the home will be placed. Mobile homes, in contrast, do have substantially different permit or code requirements - but these do not pertain to modular homes. Modular homes may cost less for permits because they are pre-inspected at the factory before ever arriving on the construction site. When you are looking at new homes, talk to a company that specializes in modular homes. They can answer questions as they pertain to your community and local codes.
Conclusion
There are many good reasons why you should explore the option of a modular home. These reasons include: time savings, design flexibility, quality, cost savings, shorter-term construction loans (less interest paid) and brand name products. With the decreasing pool of skilled laborers, modular homes are appearing in subdivisions nationwide in larger and larger numbers. Seek a builder with expertise in modular homes, and you'll find quality, beauty and affordability in less time, often with warranties of up to ten years. It's an option you are seeing more and more.
Nancy is happily constructing new homes for customers in Wisconsin and guiding them through the mortgage, construction and home equity process. She is a specialist in modular home construction, ADA compliant, and Universal Design for Accessibility
Modular homes are any home in which 80 to 95% of it is built in a factory. It is constructed in sections or modules. These modules are transported to a building site, placed on conventional foundations and assembled, where construction is completed. Unlike stick-built or site-built homes, modular building techniques are used, the on-site builders involvement is limited to excavation, final grading, construction of a suitable foundation, interior and exterior wall finish, HVAC hookup and connection to utilities.Modular Homes are NOT trailer homes, or mobile homes. Modular Homes are built to local building codes, not to the less stringent HUD code used by mobile home companies. There are no axles or telltale signs to indicate that a home is modular.
Can I tell the difference between a Modular Home and one constructed onsite?
You can't unless you see the house being constructed. There are no telltale seams, beams or lines, unless the builder used antiquated techniques. Modular builders use the same materials and used when constructing a site built home. When a home is completed you cannot distinguish between the two.Aren't the walls and materials lower quality?Absolutely not. Modular homes are constructed with 2x6 walls, and stronger materials so that the home can tolerate the rigors of being transported hundreds of miles. Most modular home factories use national brand name products to further enhance the quality of the finished product.
Can a modular home have a Basement?
Yes, and most of them do โ€" often with 9' high sidewalls, walk-out basements, and expanded living areas on lower levels โ€" but that is up to you, and your modular home builder.
Are modular homes are of inferior quality when compared to site built homes?
No - and arguably modular homes are of better quality. The two primary reasons for this are supervision and weather. Site built homes are subject to the elements. Modular homes are built in the controlled environment of the factory. This protects building materials from the harsh outdoor environment and enables laborers to work in comfortable environs improving the quality of their work. The second reason for the better quality of modular homes is the quality control programs used by modular manufacturers. Few builders who construct site built homes have a quality control manual or program in place. Modular builders do. Furthermore, regular inspections occur during the building of a modular home. In theory this is what your builder is supposed to do in the oversight of his subcontractors. In practice however these types of inspection are not done frequently or as well as it should be. Modular homes are inspected once on the assembly line, once more by a third party independent inspector required by the state in which the home is to be built, and lastly by the local building inspector โ€" for quality, as well as form, fit and accuracy.
Can modular homes be customized?
Yes, they can. Essentially the same design flexibility exists that you would have with a site built home. If you buy a site built home in a development you will have limited customization options. Similarly there are some modular manufacturers who offer a limited selection of models from which to choose.Conversely, there are modular builders, as there are site builders, who allow total discretion in the design and customization of a home. We often develop plans with the customer โ€œfrom scratchโ€ โ€" starting with an idea of the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and general concept of what the house is to be โ€" whether it is a ranch, rambler, cape cod style, two story, split level or something in between. Special needs, such as ADA compliance, with wider doorways, lower counters, roll-in showers, and other accessibility features are very important to customers in the same way the fireplaces, French doors, and spa style tubs are. If there is a feature in a stick built home, it can be built in a modular home.
How long does it take to build a Modular Home?
Modular home construction is much faster than site built homes. The typical rule of thumb for the building of a site built home is 4-6 months from ground breaking. A modular home can be completed in 1-2 months. There are several reasons for this. All of the trades required to build a site built home are employed at the factory so there is a reduced number of tradesman. Secondly many different tasks can be going on simultaneously in the factory. Lastly, some of the site work, like excavation and the pouring of the foundation are done prior to the time the house is delivered to the construction site.Compare this to the site built home where most tasks must be done sequentially. In total a few weeks is all that will be required to complete the modules that comprise a modular home. Once delivered on site the builder may have another few weeks to complete the finish work. Typically, customers can expect that it will take 4-6 weeks from time of order to time of delivery, and from time of delivery to completion, another 4-6 weeks.
Are modular homes difficult to finance?
No. That used to be the case, but the sheer number of modular homes being constructed, as well as the lending community's understanding of the quality of modular homes has all but eliminated any previously existing prejudice.
Do modular homes offer energy efficiency?
Modular homes are often able to achieve extremely high energy efficiency ratings, with some manufacturer's offering extremely high standards in their products. Expect to see R-19 to R-21 or better in walls, R-38 to R50 in roofs, and Low-E windows are almost standard in the modular industry. Talk to your builder to find out what features are standard, and which are options.
Are there differences in the permit requirements between site built and modular homes?
No, there are no differences. A modular home must conform or comply with the local building requirements of where the home will be placed. Mobile homes, in contrast, do have substantially different permit or code requirements - but these do not pertain to modular homes. Modular homes may cost less for permits because they are pre-inspected at the factory before ever arriving on the construction site. When you are looking at new homes, talk to a company that specializes in modular homes. They can answer questions as they pertain to your community and local codes.
Conclusion
There are many good reasons why you should explore the option of a modular home. These reasons include: time savings, design flexibility, quality, cost savings, shorter-term construction loans (less interest paid) and brand name products. With the decreasing pool of skilled laborers, modular homes are appearing in subdivisions nationwide in larger and larger numbers. Seek a builder with expertise in modular homes, and you'll find quality, beauty and affordability in less time, often with warranties of up to ten years. It's an option you are seeing more and more.
Nancy is happily constructing new homes for customers in Wisconsin and guiding them through the mortgage, construction and home equity process. She is a specialist in modular home construction, ADA compliant, and Universal Design for Accessibility
Investing In Modular Homes
If you are in the right areas, there are big profits to be made with modular homes. The downside? You may need a lot of cash for these deals.
Modular homes are not just a step up from mobile homes. The new ones are usually built to higher standards than many regular stick-built houses. They have six-inch walls and lots of insulation. Once they are on a foundation, they often qualify for regular home financing, as opposed to mobiles, which you'll always pay a higher interest rate on.
However, they are cheaper than a regular wood-framed home. This makes them a good choice for many home buyers, but what about investors? It depends how you use them. If they are already attached to a lot, you can just treat them like any residential property - as long as they are truly modular homes, and not classified as double-wide mobile homes. The latter are harder to finance, and you'll pay higher interest.
Perhaps the most profitable strategy, though, is to start with land and put a modular on it. In many areas, a modular home on an acre of land might sell for $140,000, and yet the cost of the land and the necessary improvements plus the modular may be under $100,000. There is a great opportunity in those areas where this is true.
Modular Home Investing - An Example
Suppose you have been watching sales of homes around the edge of the city where you live. Every now and then you see a modular sell, usually on an acre or two of land, because many subdivisions won't allow them. They seem to be consistently selling for around $135,000 or so if they have at least three bedrooms and two baths.
There are several suitable pieces of property in the area selling for $29,000 to $35,000. You can buy a 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular new for $64,000. The modular salesman tells you what you need to do to prepare a lot. Now you need to investigate the other costs.
The well drilling company that has been most active in the area says the wells are shallow in the area where two of the properties are. They can put in a well and pump for $3,800. The soils is sandy, so you can get a septic system installed for just $4,700. A power pole will cost $1,500, an asphalt driveway $2,800, and the foundation $3,200. Setting up the home and making the hook-ups is included in the purchase price. Closing costs and two months of holding costs will run about $3,000.
You decide that you are interested in the most expensive lot, the one that is $35,000. It has the nicest location, and it is in the area where it is cheaper to have a well put it.
Adding up all the costs, you arrive at a figure of $118,000. You think you can get more for the property, but you make a safe projection of $132,000. You realize that after $8,000 in commission and other closing costs, you would be left with a profit of only $6,000. That is not very motivating.
However, you have other plans. You have enough cash to start the project, and a home equity line of credit to finish it without getting a a new mortgage. You make an offer on the property of $32,000 which is accepted. Then you arrange for the well, septic system, and power pole to be installed. While this is going on, you start shopping for a repossessed modular.
You've seen them advertised in the paper for as little as $30,000. You let some dealers know you are interested in a "repo," and a month later you get a call. A dealer has an almost new 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular that he will sell for $49,000. You agree.
You are spending $15,000 less on the home as originally projected, and you bought the lot for $3,000 less as well. You do $2,000 in landscaping that you didn't include in your original figures. You have an extra $1,000 in holding costs because it took longer than originally projected to complete the project, and the other costs are $2,000 higher than anticipated.
The good news is that because you did the landscaping and paid for the better lot, the home sells for $138,000. Your total costs were just $113,000. Your total profit is $25,000. That is enough to make investing in modular homes interesting.
Modular homes are not just a step up from mobile homes. The new ones are usually built to higher standards than many regular stick-built houses. They have six-inch walls and lots of insulation. Once they are on a foundation, they often qualify for regular home financing, as opposed to mobiles, which you'll always pay a higher interest rate on.
However, they are cheaper than a regular wood-framed home. This makes them a good choice for many home buyers, but what about investors? It depends how you use them. If they are already attached to a lot, you can just treat them like any residential property - as long as they are truly modular homes, and not classified as double-wide mobile homes. The latter are harder to finance, and you'll pay higher interest.
Perhaps the most profitable strategy, though, is to start with land and put a modular on it. In many areas, a modular home on an acre of land might sell for $140,000, and yet the cost of the land and the necessary improvements plus the modular may be under $100,000. There is a great opportunity in those areas where this is true.
Modular Home Investing - An Example
Suppose you have been watching sales of homes around the edge of the city where you live. Every now and then you see a modular sell, usually on an acre or two of land, because many subdivisions won't allow them. They seem to be consistently selling for around $135,000 or so if they have at least three bedrooms and two baths.
There are several suitable pieces of property in the area selling for $29,000 to $35,000. You can buy a 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular new for $64,000. The modular salesman tells you what you need to do to prepare a lot. Now you need to investigate the other costs.
The well drilling company that has been most active in the area says the wells are shallow in the area where two of the properties are. They can put in a well and pump for $3,800. The soils is sandy, so you can get a septic system installed for just $4,700. A power pole will cost $1,500, an asphalt driveway $2,800, and the foundation $3,200. Setting up the home and making the hook-ups is included in the purchase price. Closing costs and two months of holding costs will run about $3,000.
You decide that you are interested in the most expensive lot, the one that is $35,000. It has the nicest location, and it is in the area where it is cheaper to have a well put it.
Adding up all the costs, you arrive at a figure of $118,000. You think you can get more for the property, but you make a safe projection of $132,000. You realize that after $8,000 in commission and other closing costs, you would be left with a profit of only $6,000. That is not very motivating.
However, you have other plans. You have enough cash to start the project, and a home equity line of credit to finish it without getting a a new mortgage. You make an offer on the property of $32,000 which is accepted. Then you arrange for the well, septic system, and power pole to be installed. While this is going on, you start shopping for a repossessed modular.
You've seen them advertised in the paper for as little as $30,000. You let some dealers know you are interested in a "repo," and a month later you get a call. A dealer has an almost new 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular that he will sell for $49,000. You agree.
You are spending $15,000 less on the home as originally projected, and you bought the lot for $3,000 less as well. You do $2,000 in landscaping that you didn't include in your original figures. You have an extra $1,000 in holding costs because it took longer than originally projected to complete the project, and the other costs are $2,000 higher than anticipated.
The good news is that because you did the landscaping and paid for the better lot, the home sells for $138,000. Your total costs were just $113,000. Your total profit is $25,000. That is enough to make investing in modular homes interesting.
5 Tips To Buy Cheap Repossessed Modular Homes
If you are tired of renting an apartment, or spending thousands of dollars on that condominium unit you can't own, then count yourself among the rest of humanity that finds security in owning something. Owning a home, after all, has its advantages: you have a place to call your own, and you don't have to worry about paying the rent, or suddenly not being able to pay it because of an unforeseen event.
There are many options to consider when buying a home of your own. If you move around constantly and need to take a lot of things with you, then you may want to consider repossessed modular homes. Modular homes are yesterday's mobile homes, fitted to meet today's demanding work atmosphere.
Can repossessed modular homes be for you? To understand the advantages of repossessed modular homes, it would pay to know the history of mobile homes. After the second world in the middle of the twentieth century, anticipation ran high, but budgets were low. Manufactured homes and housing projects burgeoned, allowing families to spend less when buying a house.
With the advent of technology and the need to travel to make a living, these manufactured homes were fitted with wheels, making mobile homes a respectable way to own a house. Repossessed modular homes have their own advantages, and if you are interested in owning repossessed modular homes, then examine how it can be good for you.
1. Repossessed modular homes are simply modular homes that have been taken from their owners, repaired and refurbished, then set out into the world again to be sold. This means that repossessed modular homes have been fixed and inspected for possible defects. They are never sold unless they are deemed to be fully functional.
This means that if you buy repossessed modular homes, you will not have to worry about repairs, or if they will break down once you start using them. This also means that you need to worry only about the things you have to put in them.
2. Some sellers of repossessed modular homes offer warranties on their products, so take advantage of such warranties if you encounter them. These can be advantageous if you suddenly discover that unanticipated repairs have to be done to your purchased repossessed modular homes.
Repossessed modular homes can offer you mobility, but there are also disadvantages associated with their use. Before you buy repossessed modular homes, take note of these possibilities first.
3. Older models of repossessed modular homes may have older engines, and may require you to spend more on gas. Not all older models are fitted with new engines, so inspect your prospective modular home first, and consult with vehicle engineers about it.
4. Contracts for buying repossessed modular homes may have different terms from contracts for buying brand new modular homes. Take note of these terms when you read the fine print of your contract, and do not sign a contract unless you completely understand its contents. Make sure that no guarantees are unwritten: if it is not written in the contract, it will not happen.
5. As with all things, scams abound in sales, so look at your seller's background and consult with your creditors and local bank before you buy that modular home.
If you are interested in repossessed modular homes, consult with a seller, and look at all available options. Mobility will be on your side soon enough if you make the right purchase, so be sure of everything before you get it moving.
There are many options to consider when buying a home of your own. If you move around constantly and need to take a lot of things with you, then you may want to consider repossessed modular homes. Modular homes are yesterday's mobile homes, fitted to meet today's demanding work atmosphere.
Can repossessed modular homes be for you? To understand the advantages of repossessed modular homes, it would pay to know the history of mobile homes. After the second world in the middle of the twentieth century, anticipation ran high, but budgets were low. Manufactured homes and housing projects burgeoned, allowing families to spend less when buying a house.
With the advent of technology and the need to travel to make a living, these manufactured homes were fitted with wheels, making mobile homes a respectable way to own a house. Repossessed modular homes have their own advantages, and if you are interested in owning repossessed modular homes, then examine how it can be good for you.
1. Repossessed modular homes are simply modular homes that have been taken from their owners, repaired and refurbished, then set out into the world again to be sold. This means that repossessed modular homes have been fixed and inspected for possible defects. They are never sold unless they are deemed to be fully functional.
This means that if you buy repossessed modular homes, you will not have to worry about repairs, or if they will break down once you start using them. This also means that you need to worry only about the things you have to put in them.
2. Some sellers of repossessed modular homes offer warranties on their products, so take advantage of such warranties if you encounter them. These can be advantageous if you suddenly discover that unanticipated repairs have to be done to your purchased repossessed modular homes.
Repossessed modular homes can offer you mobility, but there are also disadvantages associated with their use. Before you buy repossessed modular homes, take note of these possibilities first.
3. Older models of repossessed modular homes may have older engines, and may require you to spend more on gas. Not all older models are fitted with new engines, so inspect your prospective modular home first, and consult with vehicle engineers about it.
4. Contracts for buying repossessed modular homes may have different terms from contracts for buying brand new modular homes. Take note of these terms when you read the fine print of your contract, and do not sign a contract unless you completely understand its contents. Make sure that no guarantees are unwritten: if it is not written in the contract, it will not happen.
5. As with all things, scams abound in sales, so look at your seller's background and consult with your creditors and local bank before you buy that modular home.
If you are interested in repossessed modular homes, consult with a seller, and look at all available options. Mobility will be on your side soon enough if you make the right purchase, so be sure of everything before you get it moving.
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