Tips On Buying A Mobile Home
Are you considering buying a manufactured home? Manufactured homes are a popular housing option for many people because they offer affordability, flexibility, and the opportunity to own a home without the high costs of traditional homeownership. However, buying a manufactured home is a big decision and requires careful consideration. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with tips on buying a mobile home to help you make an informed decision.
Know Your Budget
Before you begin your search for a manufactured home, it’s important to know your budget. The cost of a manufactured home can vary greatly depending on the size, location, and features you choose. In addition to the cost of the home, you’ll also need to consider the cost of land, utilities, and any potential fees associated with living in a manufactured housing community. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your budget and what you can afford before you begin your search.
Manufactured Home Placed homestead in the North Woods of Minnesota
Financing Options
There are several financing options available for manufactured homes, Liechty Homes recommends traditional financing with your local bank or credit union. It’s important to research and compare these options to find the best fit for your financial situation.
Choose the Right Location
One of the benefits of owning a manufactured home is the flexibility to move it to a location that best suits your needs. One option is to set your home in a manufactured housing community. These communities offer the benefit of shared amenities in a neighborhood setting, but often have rules and regulations that residents must follow. When choosing a community, consider the location, amenities, and any fees associated with living there. It’s also important to research the community’s reputation and speak with current residents to get a better understanding of the community and its management.
You can also set your home on private land. If you plan on placing your mobile home on private land, you’ll need to research zoning laws and regulations in your area. You’ll also need to consider the cost of purchasing land and any potential utility hook-up fees.
This manufactured Home features a large sunroom/dinning room experience.
Inspect the Home
Just like with any home purchase, it’s important to thoroughly inspect a manufactured home before making a purchase. Here are some key areas to pay attention to during the inspection:
Roof: Check for any leaks, damage, or signs of wear and tear.
Foundation: Look for any cracks or signs of shifting.
Plumbing: Test all faucets, toilets, and drains for proper function.
Electrical: Check outlets, light switches, and the circuit breaker.
Appliances: Test all appliances to ensure they are in working condition.
Windows and doors: Make sure they open and close properly and check for any drafts.
It’s also a good idea to hire a professional inspector to thoroughly assess the home and provide you with a detailed report. When buying a manufactured home, it’s important to consider the age of the home. Older homes may require more maintenance and repairs, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Understand the Costs of Ownership
Owning a manufactured home comes with its own set of costs, just like traditional homeownership. In addition to the cost of the home and land, you’ll also need to budget for ongoing maintenance and repairs. It’s important to have a clear understanding of these costs and factor them into your budget before making a purchase. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses and ensure you can properly maintain your home.
Research the Manufacturer
When buying a manufactured home, it’s important to research the manufacturer. Look for reputable manufacturers with a history of producing quality homes. You can also research reviews and ratings from other homeowners who have purchased homes from the same manufacturer.
Negotiate the Price
Just like with any home purchase, it’s important to do your research and compare prices of similar homes in your area to ensure you’re getting a fair price. You can also negotiate with the seller to include any necessary repairs or updates in the price of the home. This can help you save money and ensure the home is in good condition before you move in.
Liechty Homes can help!
Buying a manufactured home can be a great option for those seeking affordable homeownership, and the sales staff at Liechty Homes has the experience and knowledge to make the process of purchasing your home a breeze. We work with the most respected manufacturers in the industry to offer you a high quality home to fit your lifestyle and budget. Contact the sales center nearest you to begin the search for your dream home today!
Frequently Asked Questions: Manufactured Home Buying Tips
Q: What is the most critical factor to confirm when budgeting for a manufactured home purchase in North Dakota, South Dakota, or Minnesota?
A: The most critical factor is calculating the total cost of ownership, which goes beyond the home's purchase price. You must factor in site preparation (foundation, utility hookups), transportation/set-up fees, and whether you are purchasing the land or paying lot rent in a community. Liechty Homes helps provide accurate estimates for these secondary costs upfront to ensure your total budget is realistic.
Q: Should I buy a single-wide or a double-wide manufactured home for the best long-term value?
A: While single-wide homes are often more affordable and ideal for individuals, double-wide homes generally offer better long-term value and appreciation, especially when placed on owned land. Their wider, multi-section design more closely resembles site-built housing, which often qualifies them for more favorable conventional financing and greater appeal in the resale market across the Midwest.
Q: How does choosing to own my land simplify the financing and long-term stability of my manufactured home?
A: Owning your land allows your manufactured home to be classified as "real property," which is essential for obtaining traditional, long-term mortgages like FHA, VA, and Conventional loans. This classification also ensures the home is a stable asset that can appreciate over time, providing greater financial security than a home placed on leased land (which is typically financed via a higher-interest chattel loan).
Q: What unique steps should a buyer take to research the manufacturer and dealer before purchasing?
A: You should confirm that the dealer (Liechty Homes) has a long-standing reputation and that the manufacturer (Schult, BonnaVilla) uses materials suitable for the Midwest climate (e.g., high insulation, reinforced roofing). A reputable dealer should be transparent about construction standards, offer customization options, and provide robust warranties. Liechty Homes staff can provide details on how their homes are constructed to specifically handle North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota weather.
