mHousing.com

EXTRAS & OPTIONS
In addition to the price of the home, there are some extras that must be included in your budget. Some are required by most communities and will probably add a minimum of 15 percent to the cost of your home. Most extras can be decided on at the time of purchase, and included in the financing. The following extras should be budgeted for:

Steps with handrails are required for every outside door.
Skirting, to protect the foundation structure while still providing ventilation and access, is desirable, and most home communities require it. When buying skirting, obtain estimates from more than one company.
Many state laws require that homes be anchored to the ground. You, as home owner, are responsible for seeing that the system is secured to ground anchors or footing. There are several satisfactory types of anchors. The proper method of securing the system depends on the design of the home and local soil and climatic conditions.

If your home is not going to be located in a land-lease community, you should make certain that the home and the anchoring system, including foundations, are installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and local building codes.

Similarly, if the community where you locate does not require anchors, it is still important to arrange with the manager to see that they are installed. Home anchoring systems, like seat belts in cars, are of no value if they are not fastened. Some lending institutions may require this as a condition of financing. You may also benefit from a lower insurance premium if the home is properly secured. Check with your insurance company.

Additional options that are available include: garages, outdoor storage cabinets, cabanas, patios, awnings, porches, and screened rooms. These are available from the retailer, or a manufactured home supply office.

NEXT: Financing & Insurance