Manufactured homes, (mobile homes or trailers), are homes fully constructed in regulated factories and built on a fixed, steel chassis (rather than a permanent foundation). These mobile homes offer a lot of freedom and flexibility on a friendly budget for many individuals and families. Searching for the right manufactured home is in many ways just like looking for a single family home. How much space do you and your family need? What kind of layout is most functional for your lifestyle? How often do you plan on relocating with your mobile home? Will you be placing your home on a private lot or a mobile home park? What is the budget for this home?
Manufactured Home Size, Layout & Features
Manufactured homes typically come in single wide and double wide sizes. There are also some triple wides available although not as common. The first thing to consider when looking for a new home is how much space you and your family need. For families with children, a double wide might make more sense, providing more bedrooms than a single wide. Layout and features will also play a role here. Single wide trailers will have fewer layout options than a double wide, and the overall shape of the home will vary. Both sizes of mobile homes can incorporate a variety of features such as: eco friendly appliances, porch additions, enhanced architectural features and more. It is important to note that you can upgrade both types of homes after purchase. Learn more about single wide vs double wide manufactured homes.
Mobile Home Location
Home buyers can choose to place their home on a private site or choose to be part of a manufactured home community.
Private Lot for Mobile Home
When selecting a site for your new mobile home, HUD advises home buyers to take into account all the restrictive covenants and zoning requirements before renting or buying a lot. A private lot requires the buyer to be responsible for permits, zoning compliance, and bringing necessary utilities to the site. Buyers are also responsible for grading the land to prepare a pathway for delivery of the manufactured home.
Manufactured Home Community
A mobile home park will not provide the same amount of privacy as a private vacant lot, but it does come with less responsibility. Mobile home parks are already built on suitable land for manufactured homes and were designed for ease of delivering mobile homes. Home sites already have foundation and footings in place, utilities are ready to be hooked up, septic tanks are installed (if needed) and in many cases a paved driveway is provided. Park staff is also available to ensure your home is properly set and can often help with minor problems during install. Your building inspections and permits are also handled for you by the park.
An established community may also have several recreational facilities and community gatherings to provide opportunities to get to know and socialize with your neighbors.
New Home Budget
Lastly, consider your finances and budget. Consider the cost of the home, cost of set up (transportation, permits etc), any monthly park fees (land rental), and furnishing your new home. Speak with your financial institution about all your options to determine what your overall budget for your new home will be. Staying within this budget can help reduce stress and allow you to enjoy your manufactured home more. You can always upgrade and add on to your home as your family’s needs grow in the future.
Knowing what to look for and what to consider when buying a new home can help make the process less stressful. When you’re ready to see what’s currently on the market, Comfort Communities is ready to help!