Did you know that…
- 22 million Americans live full-time in manufactured homes.
- Manufactured Homes account for 6% of the housing stock.
- In 2019, the industry shipped 94,633 homes from 124 manufacturing facilities.
- All manufactured homes are built to the federal HUD Code, with each home going through a rigorous inspection process before being certified and sold. 2021 marks the 45th anniversary of the HUD Code.
- According to the Sales Data – 63% of the new manufactured homes were located on private property, and 37% were located in communities.
- In 2018, the average sales price of a new manufactured home was $78,500.
Click here for more statistics on the factory built housing industry.
What is the difference between “modular” and “manufactured?”
Both homes are “built” in the controlled environment of a factory. A manufactured home, usually one story, is 90% to 100% completed in the factory and then transported in sections…usually or 1 or 2 sections to the community or private lot. In Pennsylvania, all manufactured homes must be sold by a licensed retailer. Once the home is delivered to its home site, it is then installed by a licensed HUD installer and the finishing work is completed on the home.
A manufactured home comes with a “seal of approval” from the Department of Housing and Urban Development; therefore, a manufactured home is frequently referred to as a HUD Code Home.
A modular home is constructed in modules in the factory and then a specialized builder assembles these modules and adds the desired amenities on the home owners private property. Modular homes can be one or two stories and meet state and local codes just the same as site built homes.
PMHA is proud to have both HUD Code home manufacturers and modular manufacturers as our members. We would be pleased to discuss each type with you and hopefully lead you to making the choice that is best for you and your family.
Exactly what is the HUD code?
Simply put, the HUD code is a nationally recognized building code. When your home has the HUD code seal attached to its exterior then it meets the regional standards for roof load, wind resistance, thermal efficiency, safety and durability. Manufactured homes are the only homes….factory manufactured or site built….that meet the federal governments stringent regulations.
The HUD code became a federal law in 1976.
What is the difference between a single-section and a multi-section?
Each home style offers the homeowner a myriad of options and architectural styles, so don’t limit yourself. The major differences between the two is size and the amount of time it takes to ready the home for occupancy once delivered to the home site. Manufactured homes are built in boxes and transported to the home site. Therefore, each home piece is limited when it comes to its length, width and height. A single-section home can provide anywhere from 720 to 1200 square feet of living space and takes the least amount of construction activity at the site. Multi-section homes are transported in two or more pieces and when joined together provides on average 1746 square feet of living space. Once on the home site, it takes more time to join the pieces together. Today’s homebuyer has a vast selection of styles and sizes from which to choose from.
What can I afford?
When you visit a retail center you will see many different style homes as well as many different manufacturers. Take your time to decide what you want….and what you can live without. Then sit down with the licensed salesperson. They can help you find what best suits your needs and budget.
Where can my home be placed?
You have a number of possibilities for your home’s location. First you can place your home on property that you own as long as the land is zoned for manufactured housing. You may also place your home in a community where you typically own the home and lease the land. Whichever option you choose, select an area that can adequately accommodate your home and your lifestyle.
How is my home installed?
A manufactured or modular home must be sited in accordance with the manufacturers designs. All manufactured homes must be installed by a licensed HUD installer. They can go on footers, basements, or crawlspaces – the choice is yours. Click here for more information.
What about the resale value of my home?
The resale value is of course determined by how well you maintain your home, the landscaping done to set the house off, and the economy of the area in which you live when you are ready to sell the home. A manufactured home will be just as resellable as a site built home and will keep up with home appreciation value if it is well maintained.