So you're buying a manufactured home! Congratulations! Manufactured homes offer affordability, cost efficiency, and sustainability for individuals and families. The question you may be asking yourself now is how to choose the right housing community. There are several important factors to consider when making an informed decision that aligns with your desired lifestyle and financial situation.
Buying a factory-built home is an excellent alternative to site-built homes and can provide you with more living space for your money. Manufactured homes cost less per square foot than traditionally built homes, and they provide undeniable comforts and luxurious amenities.
Since 1975, Sun Communities has been paving the way for manufactured housing communities. We offer high-end appliances and open-concept designs for luxurious living in the neighborhoods and communities you want to call home.
Let's explore key points for you and your family to consider when choosing the right manufactured home.
Choosing The Right Manufactured Home Starts Here
Determine Your Budget
It's essential to set a realistic budget. Consider the initial purchase price and ongoing expenses such as maintenance, utilities, and potential land lease fees.
Research Different Manufacturers
With multiple builders in the market, conducting thorough research on different manufacturers is necessary. A company's reputation is essential, and word of mouth is everything! Look through their history to see if they produce high-quality homes and provide excellent customer service. Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations from other homeowners will offer helpful insights into the reliability and reputation of manufacturers.
Learn more about Sun Communities and our partners
Safety and Security
Performing your due diligence to understand the safety and security of a community you're considering moving to is essential. You can easily review statistics and regional safety scores with a quick online search. Take the time to visit with your potential new neighbors! Some planned communities offer additional security features like gated entrances or security patrols. Having peace of mind when it comes to keeping you and your loved ones safe is priceless.
Evaluate Floor Plans and Features
Manufactured homes come in various floor plans and layouts to adapt to every homebuyer's diverse lifestyles and preferences. In the planning phase, consider the family size, the number of desired bedrooms and bathrooms, and any specific features or upgrades. Whether it's an open-concept design, energy-efficient appliances, or ADA customizations, exploring several floor plans and features will help you find a home that suits your unique needs.
Choose A Manufactured Home Community
There are many things to consider when choosing a manufactured home community. The below tips will help you narrow down the perfect place to live.
Management and Maintenance
A well-managed community ensures shared spaces are kept tidy, facilities are in good condition, and residents' concerns are addressed promptly. Look into the management team, reputation, and responsiveness.
Fun fact: Sun Communities orders thousands of new homes yearly, with less than 1% annual move-outs.
Amenities and Facilities
Unique communities offer one-of-a-kind amenities. While some might have planned monthly activities, tennis courts, and clubhouses, others might provide world-class golf courses, state-of-the-art fitness centers, or lakes for fishing. Write down a must-have list before starting your search.
Check out the amenities at Sky Harbor in New York
The Location Matters When Choosing the Right Manufactured Home
When choosing a manufactured home, placement of the home plays an important role in overall satisfaction. If you already own the property where the home will be located, ensure your selected home will comply with local zoning regulations and building codes. For those leaning more towards a manufactured housing community, research the amenities, neighborhood atmosphere, and proximity to essential services such as schools, healthcare facilities, and shopping centers.
Quality and Durability
Inspecting a prefabricated home's construction quality and materials ensures its longevity and structural integrity. Look for homes built with high-quality materials, such as durable siding, double-pane energy-efficient windows, and well-insulated roofing. Ask about the manufacturer's warranty and post-purchase support to protect your investment.
Community Culture
Each intentional community will have its distinctive culture and vibe. Some are designed for families of all ages, some for retirees, and others looking for a more active lifestyle. Take the time to visit the community that appeals to your specific needs and speak with established residents to get a good feel for the environment.
Unique Woodland Park Estates in Oregon
Financing Options and Insurance
Becoming familiar with available financing options when purchasing a manufactured home is vital. Compare different lenders' interest rates, terms, and eligibility requirements, whether a chattel loan, conventional mortgage, or other financing alternatives. Explore insurance coverage tailored to manufactured homes to protect your property against unforeseen events and liabilities.
Rules and Regulations
Manufactured housing communities typically come with a set of community rules and regulations. These can range from pet policies to home maintenance standards to allowable vehicle types. As a prospective resident, ensure the existing policies align with your lifestyle to avoid future conflicts,
Regulatory Compliance and Inspections
Before finalizing a manufactured home purchase, ensure it complies with federal and state regulations, including HUD standards. Arrange for professional assistance in scheduling inspections and appraisals, which will help provide the peace of mind you need to move forward in the purchasing process.
Committing to a manufactured home is easy, but choosing the right community and manufacturer takes time and effort. Devote your time and energy to research, plan, and find your perfect location that offers all the amenities and features you desire.
Sun Communities assists homebuyers in realizing their goals of owning their new home. We can help you find yours. Contact us today!