Modular Vs. Manufactured

There are several homes that are advertised as either modular or manufactured. I am not really sure what the difference is, can you help?

That is a great question, and very few know the difference between the two types of homes. A modular home is always built in a factory indoors. It can come in one section or several depending on the type of home and if it’s a two story or ranch. These homes are always built to state, local and regional building codes for each designated area. The homes are transported to your site by truck beds and put together on site by contractors. The cost of a modular home is can be less expensive that your stick built or on site built home. A well constructed modular will increase in value over time equally to your stick built home and if you have a shorter time frame to get in your home, a modular typically takes less time to construct.

A manufactured home is commonly referred to as mobile homes. This style of home is built in a factory and is constructed to federal building codes called the HUD code. They have a non-removable steel chassis and are sometimes transported to the site on their own wheels. If there are two sections to the home, they are connected at the site. A manufactured home is not always placed on a permanent foundation. If that is the situation, the home will not gain as much value over time and can sometimes decrease in value. Once the home is placed building inspectors are in most cases only required to ensure proper hook up of utilities but are not required to approve the structure. Generally you can purchase a manufactured home for less than a modular home. There are a few more items to consider! The location you are putting your home may have restrictions on what you can place there. Make sure you check with any homeowners associations to be sure you can place your type of home there and check for deed restrictions on the land. If you are considering purchasing a modular or manufactured home, you must also make sure that you have a discussion with your lender about differences in mortgage loans available for each type. I hope this information has been helpful in determining the differences in modular and manufactured homes. Good Luck with your home search!