Are Manufactured Homes Affordable?
When cost is a primary consideration, manufactured homes offer significant savings with an average cost of $108,100, including site preparation, delivery, setup, and other expenses. These homes are significantly more affordable than traditional new-builds, which come in at around $365,904, making them almost three and a half times the price. Regarding cost, a manufactured home is the more financially viable choice for those looking for an affordable and cost-effective way of home ownership.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Manufactured Home on Average?
If you’ve heard the term prefabricated or prefab, in terms of housing types, you’re likely picturing exactly what it means. Prefab homes are structures that are mostly assembled off-site in a facility and then put together completely on location. There are different types of prefab housing, and the main difference between each depends on the codes they are built to. If you’re curious as to the difference between mobile, modular, and manufactured housing, we’ve broken down each below.
What is the Difference Between Traditional New Homes and Manufactured Homes?
Manufactured homes are built on an assembly line, with materials and work completed away from the elements to prevent wood warps, circumvent weather-related building delays, and decrease waste for more eco-friendly construction. In addition, this means completion of a manufactured home project is much quicker, with an average timeframe ranging from 2-4 months. Furthermore, because the materials are produced indoors, various measures are taken to ensure durability and longevity. For example, manufactured homes are required to meet strict building codes and standards, including regulations put in place by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for safety, energy efficiency, and overall quality.
In these new codes, standards were set for elements such as home design, plumbing, and thermal protection, all of which were established to help protect homeowners and their investments. Prior to this act, mobile homes were typically constructed on metal i-beams with exposed trailer couplers and were set on wooden or concrete blocks.
However, with the Housing Act of 1980, the term mobile officially became manufactured, and the new standards and codes these homes were built to create the affordable, yet appealing manufactured-home industry we are familiar with today.
Why are More People Turning to Manufactured Housing for New Homes?
For one, manufactured homes offer flexibility and customization that traditional homes cannot match. Home buyers can choose from different design options, custom-tailoring the layout, color scheme, and other features to match their specific needs and tastes. In addition, manufactured
home builders offer a myriad of designs to choose from, with an array of amenities, décor choices, and customization options.
Finally, more people are turning towards manufactured homes due to the social and community aspect. It’s common for manufactured homes to be situated within communities, with parks and recreation centers on-site for residents to enjoy. This can be an attractive option for individuals looking for a sense of community and cohesion within their living environments. At The Reserve, we have a steadfast commitment to providing our residents with an enriching living experience, community among neighbors, and clean, attractive communities maintained to the highest standards. You can learn more about our process and our dedication here.
With the affordable price point, swift and sustainable construction, and flexibility offered by new manufactured homes, it’s clear why more individuals are turning to this option to build their new homes. It’s a smart financial decision and an investment in the durability and customization of one’s living space and community. Regardless of your homeownership goals, exploring manufactured home options is a great first step to owning a new, affordable, modern home.
