TIPS
ON BUYING A MANUFACTURED HOME
(courtesy of The Manufactured Housing Industry
of Arizona)
Manufactured homes now offer almost every special feature and
amenity found in site-built homes. These include tape and textured
walls, vaulted ceilings, super insulation packages, skylights,
bay and dormer windows, large walk-in closets, dramatic master
bedroom suites, designer kitchens, wood exteriors, tile roofs
and much more.
There is a manufactured home for nearly every need and budget.
-
Look at as many homes as possible, and remember to: Look for
an experienced manufactured home retailer and salesperson
that you like.
- Determine
in advance what features you really want in a house.
- Decide
which floor plans make the most sense for your family's needs.
- Compare
the construction quality and price of different models of
manufactured homes.
Manufactured home prices range from entry-level to luxury. By
working with a lender in advance, you can determine how much you
can spend on a house, and focus your search within that price
range.
The right floor plan depends on your lifestyle and family size.
If you entertain frequently, you may want an "open" floor plan
where rooms flow together. If you have children, you may want
the family room separated from the rest of the house. Think of
your family living with that floor plan, rather than just looking
at it as a decorated model. A manufactured home comes with a long
list of "standard" features included in the sales price. Your
salesperson should provide you with a specification sheet listing
these items.
Your new home will come with several warranties offered by the
manufacturer, your home retailer and by the makers of the appliances
and finished goods that come with the house. Read them over thoroughly
so you understand what is covered. Make sure you understand who
is responsible for the transportation and installation of your
new home. Generally, that will be your home retailer. Ask whether
this service is included in the cost of your home.