Modular vs Manufactured

If you’re in the market for a new home, perhaps it’s time you thought modular. The availability of custom made and built to strict standards, modular homes are becoming more and more popular. There remain, however, many misconceptions about what exactly is a modular home. Most importantly, what they are NOT is the same as a manufactured home.

The typical manufactured home is what most would think of as a trailer. A modular house is built in pieces in an enclosed, climate controlled factory. Each home is built precisely to the builder’s specs and there are many floor plans from which to choose, ranging from a typical ranch design to a two story with gables and a wrap-around porch.

 

Modular homes are built to the same exacting standards and codes as a regular stick-built home. Manufactured homes are only governed by HUD codes. Factories are inspected on a regular basis and inspections are done by professionals in the building industry. Another surprising fact unknown to many, is that these homes are also energy efficient, and can receive the same EPA Energy Star certification as you’ve become accustomed to seeing on your appliances.

 

Banks view modulars the same way as a stick-built home because both are placed on a permanent foundation. As a result, they offer the same financing for either. Once this is in place and your home has been ordered, it can be built in the factory in as little as two weeks – no down time due to weather!

 

Once delivered, the modules are expertly put together by builders experienced in the modular industry. Affixed to a solid, poured foundation, they have the same stability as a stick-built home. When considering your new dwelling, perhaps it’s time to give modular homes some serious consideration. Your local dealer likely offers hundreds of floor plans or customizable options and expert advice on how to get started. You might just find yourself pleasantly surprised!