Browse online

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy Equal Housing Opportunityfor the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have decided a manufactured home may be the right choice for you, but you still have questions and want to know more about the purchase and move-in process, read on to find answers to the most frequently asked questions about manufactured housing.

Why do manufactured homes cost less than site-built homes?
Homebuilders purchase construction materials, including interior features and appliances in large quantities to take advantage of volume pricing; the savings then are passed onto the homebuyer. Factory-built homes are constructed in temperature-controlled environments so delays are few, if any, due to weather conditions, damaged building materials, vandalism and theft, which can be costly and inefficient to the buyer. From start to finish, factory-built homes can be completed and ready in as little as a few weeks for the homeowner to move in.

What is the inspection process for factory-built housing?
Throughout the building process, construction is continually inspected to ensure the home meets the standards of the federal code, the HUD code, and the State of Michigan Residential Building Code, which is the same code for site-built homes. Each home is engineered and inspected to meet wind safety standards and energy efficiency requirements.

Can I customize a manufactured home to make it my own?
You bet! With all of the options available to the consumer, manufactured homes allow for great diversity in home design. Choose from spacious floor plans, vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, fireplaces, name-brand appliances, customized packages, whirlpool tubs and upgrades. In addition, exterior designs are available that are compatible with almost any neighborhood.

How do I get floor plan samples and pricing information?
Contact a manufactured home retailer for pricing and floor plans. To find a retailer near you, visit www.michhome.org, click "Search our members" and select the retailer category. You will find a detailed list with their addresses, directions to their sales centers, phone numbers, features and services. Often, you can e-mail or visit their Web sites. You also have the option to further define your search and find the retailer nearest you by entering the county, zip code, keywords or company name using the "advanced search" option.

Do I have to finance my home through a retailer?
Your retailer can arrange financing. However, if you prefer, you may choose to finance your home through an outside lender such as a bank, credit union or mortgage company. For a list of lenders who specialize in manufactured home financing, visit www.michhome.org, click "Search our members" and select the lender category.

I want to purchase a manufactured home and place it on private property. How should I begin the process?
Many home retailers will help you find property. If you already own land, contact your municipality to make sure you can legally place a manufactured home on the property. Your retailer will also arrange for transporting and setting the home on the site.

How long will it take to get my home?
From as little as one week for an in-stock home being moved to a land-lease community, to a few months for a special order home being placed over a basement on private property. Generally, a special order takes about 30 days. Mortgage approval and site work may extend the timetable several weeks.

What warranty coverage is offered on the home, its transportation and installation?
All manufacturers offer a written warranty that should cover structural workmanship, factory-installed plumbing, heating and electrical systems, and factory-installed appliances, which also may be covered by separate appliance manufacturer warranties. However, there are important differences among warranties. For example, manufacturer warranties usually do not cover installation and transportation of the home, but you may be able to get this coverage through your retailer or contractor. Be sure to check coverage before you buy.

Do I arrange for site improvement/basement building if my home is going to be on a private lot?
A professional, licensed building contractor should arrange for site improvements and a basement or crawlspace. Your retailer may have a contractor on staff or can recommend a general contractor to meet your needs. At no time is it recommended that a non-licensed person be responsible for the site improvements or set up of your home.

Where can I find general information about manufactured housing?
The Internet is a great place to start. The official site of the Michigan Manufactured Housing Association (MMHA), www.michhome.org is a comprehensive source for information on all aspects of the manufactured housing lifestyle. Or, call 800.551.1315 for a free information kit.

For more information about manufactured and modular housing, visit www.michhome.org, call 800.551.1315 or contact MMHA, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, MI 48864-5978; 517.349.3300.

 
###

back to home buyer's resource page