In response to this great article on modular homes as an affordable housing option.
Having worked with modular homes, manufactured homes, and mobile homes, I can say they often meet most people’s housing needs. Newer homes are nearly indistinguishable from conventional (stick-built) homes with foundations. As the article says, modular homes are well-insulated. From experience I know some provide several cooling options such as forced air, while not as effective as an air-conditioning unit, it should be sufficient for most climates. For the most part, I wouldn’t recommend moving too many walls around however remodeling is an option and nearly every type of flooring and wall covering option is available. I have toured homes with world-class kitchens and home automation features. I would recommend however going with a contractor who has experience (more than a few projects) in modular/manufactured homes as there are many manufacturers with unique design elements which take experience beyond what a Google search can provide.
The real downside to homes is the land. One is limited to what you can do with the landscaping on the lot and the very common tandem load parking can be a challenge for a multi-car family. Something to note is when an investor buys the community with the intent to significantly increase the rent or potentially sell the property for redevelopment. While sometimes still referred to as “mobile homes” other than their delivery via a tow hitch called the tongue and some axels and wheels, once removed the home is there for its useful life. To move it, while possible is expensive, starting around $30,000, and obviously, wouldn’t be the same once reassembled. Investors know this and to some extent, extort homeowners. If you can, look for a resident-owned park in which you own an ownership share in the community, and it operates much like a homeowner’s association.
The other issue is financing and qualifications. Without a foundation and ownership in the land beneath, these homes fall under what is called a chattel loan (personal property) which typically offer 25-year loans with higher interest rates. There are also relatively few lenders in this space so it’s worth it to find a specialist in this area who can help you identify a good lender. These communities also require residents to have good credit and income requirements. Most are pet friendly with size and breed restrictions on dogs which are in line with virtually any community that allows them. Send me a message and I’ll tell you how the residents of one community get around a non-dog walking policy or if you are in interested in the San Jose, California area I can refer you to a firm that specializes in manufactured homes and communities.
Check out Gary Fleisher here: https://www.modularhomes.com/author/gary/
Adam Moura 