You have seen the advertisements. You might even know some people who own one. You think it might be the way to go in buying your next home. But first you should do some research and some thinking. You should understand that there are both pros and cons when it comes to buying a modular home.
You should also realize the difference between a modular and a manufactured home. A modular home is a home that is built basically by a kit. This kit is made in a factory but is put together by trained craftspeople. The buyer can pick out the kit he/she wishes to have and can make some minor changes to it. The kit arrives in pieces and when put together a home is built. A manufactured home is another name for a mobile home or a trailer. These are also made in a factory.
Now that we all know what a modular home is let's look at some of the pros for buying one.
1. They can be set up almost anywhere, as long as there is sufficient space.
2. They are generally pretty affordable.
3. You have some choices of the layout you want. You have choices on how many bedrooms, how many bathrooms, etc. You can also buy kits in which you can do some of the inside work yourself, adding the drywall, finishing the floors, adding the plumbing, etc. Make sure you understand exactly what your kit contains and what work you will have to finish yourself when purchasing.
4. The home will be livable a lot quicker than a home would be if you built it yourself. Actually, you might be amazed at how fast these modular homes can be constructed.
5. You don't have to worry about thieves stealing your lumber as you are building it. (A problem that is growing across the nation).
6. These homes are factory built and do have to follow codes and are inspected by third parties.
7. Most modular homes will help you safe energy.
8. You can easily add more rooms onto it in the future, if the needs or money will allow.
9. If made correctly, can stay beautiful for years.
10. Modular homes are built with real 2 X 4's compared to 2 X 3's that are used in making manufactured homes.
Now for some cons that some people believe exist.
1. Although these homes are built by craftsmen, many people believe that these homes are also put together too quickly and therefore are lacking in craftsmanship.
2. They lose their market value quicker than a normal home does.
3. Some of these modular homes have had some problems with insulation and water lines.
4. Can be harder to finance than a regular home.
5. They do not build equity like regular homes do.
6. May not be as sturdy as a regular home (especially during bad weather, tornados).
Could a modular home be the perfect choice for you and your family? Weigh the pro and con list of reasons for buying a modular home, go and see some for yourself, talk to some salespeople and then decide for yourself. Only then will you know for sure.
