There are a few myths often associated with the manufactured home market which may have at one point been almost true. But, since construction standards were established in 1976 by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, many of the negative connotations about manufactured homes are only myths.
For Example:
MYTH: Manufactured homes are cheaply made.
The reality is, manufactured homes are built under strict quality control and must meet strict performance standards in accordance with HUD’s regulations before they can be sold. The construction phase of a manufactured home is governed by many of the same rules which apply to traditional home construction.
In addition, all phases of the construction process have to be inspected by an independent inspector. This means buyers can feel safe and secure knowing they have a well built home.
MYTH: Safety is lacking in manufactured homes.
According to recent reports from major insurance companies, a manufactured home has less than half the chance of being involved in a fire than a traditional home. They are also manufactured to withstand heavy wind and bad weather. In fact, due to local zoning codes, inspection standards and many states’ anchoring regulations, a manufactured home could be one of the safest places in a storm.
MYTH: Financing is hard to obtain for a manufactured home.
A manufactured home is as easy to finance as a traditional home and when placed on a private lot, a manufactured home can often be included in the mortgage for the home and land on which it will sit. This allows the buyer to get the best of both worlds!
VA, HUD and FHA loans for manufactured homes for up to 30 years are typically available, depending on the condition of the home, as well as the condition of the credit rating of the buyer. However, often banks will require the buyer to remove the wheels from a manufactured home, should it have them, in order to get traditional financing.
MYTH: Manufactured homes are not appealing.
Manufactured homes built today, have come a long way in their appeal. In fact, in many homes, once you’re inside it is difficult to tell the difference between a manufactured home and a traditionally built home. With many homes designed for individual needs in mind or to meet a budget, many homes can be spacious and well-appointed.
‘Things like loft areas, luxury bathrooms and open floor plans are available. They can include many of the fine details available in other types of homes. With the options available for manufactured homes, if it is available for a traditional home, chances are it is also available for a manufactured home.
As far as the exterior of manufactured homes, buyers now have the option to choose from porches, siding and upgraded roofing options. Many times it’s challenging to even notice the fact the home is a manufactured home from the outside, due to innovative options available now. In addition, some manufactured homes can even be sat on concrete poured basements, making them even more like a traditionally built home.
