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3-Step Guide to Buying a New Manufactured Home

Thinking about buying a manufactured home?

Many are drawn to the affordable prices and customizable options manufactured homes offer. But before you make a purchase, it’s important to educate yourself on the process and what to expect when buying a manufactured home.

Before anything else…

First, you must understand the difference between a manufactured home and a traditional home. 

A manufactured home (also called mobile home) is a factory-built housing unit that’s transported and installed to a semi-permanent site. Meanwhile, traditional homes, often called “stick-built homes” by home builders, are constructed piece by piece on a building site where they are intended to remain forever. 

Manufactured homes are built to meet the same building standards as traditional, stick-built homes, but they are more affordable and can be customized to meet the buyer’s needs.

Pros of Manufactured Homes

  • Affordability is one of the major advantages of manufactured homes. These homes can cost up to 50% less than a traditional, stick-built home, making them an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those on a tight budget.
  • They are also often available in a broader range of sizes and styles so that you can choose the perfect fit for your needs.

Cons of Manufactured Homes

  • Manufactured homes depreciate over time, unlike traditional houses, which increase in value. As a result, if you sell your manufactured home, you may not get as much money as you would for a traditional home.
  • You may have limited financing options when buying a mobile home. Most lenders won’t extend a traditional mortgage loan for a manufactured home purchase. Nonetheless, you still have options such as FHA and personal loans. 

As you go through your home-buying journey, remember to pay attention to important details to find the home that perfectly suits your needs.

Step 1: Determine your preferences 

Before you start looking around, sit down with your household members and discuss the preferences and options at hand. Here are a few key things you’ll want to consider:

Budget and Finances

Think about the budget you’re working with. Manufactured homes can vary in price, depending on the size and features you choose. 

Also, note that the actual home is not the only cost you’ll have to prepare for. You will also have to buy or rent the land it sits on. In the latter case, you are responsible for paying monthly rent plus utilities and fees for shared amenities.

You may also buy a plot of land independently. The cost of land will also change based on its location and nearby amenities.

Most buyers of manufactured homes will need financing. Knowing the type of financing—lender, bank, credit union, or through a manufactured home retailer—and the amount you may qualify for is a vital element of your manufactured home shopping journey. 

We recommend that you seek pre-qualification and approval before making a purchase.

Location

Consider the location of your new home. 

Manufactured homes can be installed on a piece of land or in a manufactured home community. Your choice will have a unique set of considerations, such as the rules in the community, monthly fees, amenities, zoning restrictions, type of financing available, installation cost, etc.

If you’re considering several mobile home parks in Sacramento, take the time to explore your options and find the right community that meets your needs.

Details, details, details

Check out the manufactured home’s features that can impact the rent you may be able to charge, the resale value, and so on. The quality of things like countertops, fixtures, insulation, roof, flooring, siding, and water cutoff valves all affect the unit’s overall value. 

Step 2: Start browsing around 

Check out different manufacturers and look at their available features. Many manufacturers offer customizable options, allowing you to choose your desired layout and features.

Tips for when checking out manufactured homes

  • Find out the land use restrictions in your area, as they could prohibit you from certain activities.
  • Consider the small details, such as the location’s accessibility, the permits required, the soil quality, and how much work it will take for the area to be ready.
  • Look for signs of quality construction. Ask about the materials used in the home construction and the warranty options available.
  • Think about the house’s energy efficiency. Homes with Energy Star-certified appliances and features can help save you money on your utility bills. In addition, ask about the home’s heating and cooling system, insulation, and windows.
  • Explore Reviews, like those of Meadowbrook Mobile Home Park reviews to get a sense of the community’s quality, amenities, and how satisfied residents are.

Step 3: Finalize the purchase 

This step involves signing a purchase agreement and putting down a deposit. Be sure to carefully review the contract and ask any questions you may have before making it official.

After you’ve signed the agreement, the manufacturer will begin building your new home. This can take several weeks or even months, depending on the size and complexity of the home. During this time, stay in contact with the manufacturer and be prepared for any unexpected delays or issues.

Once your new manufactured home is completed, it will be transported to your chosen location and installed on a permanent foundation. This process can take several days; you may need to be present to oversee the installation and make any final decisions or changes.

Be a manufactured homeowner!

Buying a new manufactured home can be a great way to achieve homeownership at an affordable price. By researching, carefully inspecting the home, and working with a reputable manufacturer, you can easily find the perfect home to fit your needs and budget.

Meadowbrook Mobile Home Park, a celebrated mobile home park in Antelope, CA, is a great place to call home. If you want to inquire about mobile homes for sale in Sacramento, call us at 916-334-0737 or drop us a message here.

Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/McmtsXThTFiSEhfW8

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