Mobile Home Types
We all have that dream house: a home that has everything we need to live comfortably. Sometimes, we know exactly what our dream home will look like. Other times, our dream home may be an impractical idea. There are also times where our dream home is just out of our financial reach or we can’t find the perfect place to meet our needs. Luckily there are more affordable options in Manufactured and Modular Housing. Unlike “site-built” housing, Manufactured and Modular homes are usually built in factories and can be transported to different locations. These homes also cost 10%-35% less than a comparable site-built home. When most people think of mobile homes, they think of shabby trailers in desolate trailer parks. But there are actually beautiful homes that you’d never know were mobile. This article is going to break down the different mobile home types and what it’s like to own one.
Manufactured Homes
A manufactured home is housing that is built in a factory. These are the modernized upgrade to the mobile homes that became popular in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. These houses are built to comply with the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards also known as the HUD Code. They come with all of the amenities of a standard house including plumbing, electricity, and gas. They also can come with front lawns and backyards depending on the land that is purchased for the home. Each manufactured home comes with standard features but can be customized to fit your wants and needs. They can be built with different types of floor plans and can even be made accessible for those with special needs. Unfortunately, some cities and towns have outdated zoning laws so there may be some restrictions to where a manufactured home can be built. Since manufactured housing is mobile, the wheels are never removed and instead are covered by side skirts on the bottom of the house. Manufactured homes usually take 8-14 weeks to build.
Modular homes
Modular Homes are very similar to manufactured homes when it comes to amenities. One of the main differences is that modular homes comply with federal standards while modular homes are built to state standards. The construction of a modular home usually happens on site where different box-like modules are placed and attached to create one full home. Another great characteristic of modular housing is that these homes are infinitely customizable and can have different parts attached at any time. Unfortunately modular homes usually don’t come with garages or porches. Modular homes are usually permanent and treated the like site-built homes when it comes to financing. They usually take 4-6 weeks to build.
Now that you know the mobile home types available, you can begin to decide which one is best for you. Mobile/ Manufactured homes come with a lot of risks so you should also look into purchasing a Florida Mobile Home Insurance. If you have questions about the pricing of Florida Mobile Home Insurance coverage you can request a rapid Florida Mobile Home Insurance quote right now. Try something different and get a dream home you can afford!
Many people are still confused about the difference between Mobile Homes and Manufactured Homes. Most people think of mobile homes as small trailers in rural areas. Actually, mobile homes have evolved and are now referred to as manufactured homes. These homes are built in factories and placed on previously purchased land. The main difference between manufactured homes and mobile homes are the federal regulations. After 1976, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) created specific guidelines for the construction of manufactured homes. If you plan on purchasing manufactured housing, be sure the home your purchase meets the HUD Manufactured Housing Standards.
HUD Manufactured Housing Standards
- Manufactured homes must be built on a permanent chassis
- Manufactured homes must meet the following size requirements:
- Minimum Floor Space: 400 ft²
- Minimum Ceiling Height: 7 feet
- Minimum Ceiling Height in Hallways: 6.5 ft
- Minimum of 2 outside doors that are at least 12 ft apart for single-wide and 20 ft apart for double-wide
- At least one window in each bedroom
- Bedrooms for one person must have at least 50 ft² of floor space; for two people: 70 ft²
- Kitchens and bathrooms must have mechanical ventilation systems
- Fire alarms must be in every room
- Minimum required roof snow load (Varies by area)
- Proper electrical and plumbing systems
- Proper foundation requirements
When renting or purchasing a manufactured home, ensure that it meets all of the HUD Manufactured Housing Standards. Some homes may not be built to code, so you’ll be responsible for making the proper repairs before you move in. These repairs may be costly. That’s why you should also acquire Florida Mobile Home Insurance. Some policies include coverage options for repairs that are made on your home to meet code. It will also protect you from any losses related to harsh weather, injury, theft, fires, and more. If you need to make repairs or want to protect you property, request a free Florida Mobile Home Insurance Quote from us. We will help you find the best rates on policies from the top insurance providers. From there you can choose the one that best suits your needs. A Manufactured home is a big investment; make sure you keep it protected.