Selecting the Best Modular Home Manufacturer for You

Author: Susan Davidson  |  Category: Modular Homes

modular manufacturer

So you’ve decided that a modular home is the best option for your new house. Great – you’ve made an excellent choice!

By now you know all the benefits that modular homes offer – cost-efficiency, quicker time to completion, and best of all, a quality structure that is built to not only be attractive, but to last for years to come, appreciating in value all the time.

Now that you’ve decided on a modular home, it’s time to find the modular home manufacturer that is best for you. There are a lot of different variables when considering which modular home manufacturer to choose, and using these variables to make the best choice will make the process of building your modular home much smoother sailing.

The very first thing you should do when choosing a modular home manufacturer is to determine what manufacturers are servicing your area. The internet makes this easy. There are several places on the internet to find directories of modular home manufacturers, including:

  • The National Modular Housing Council. Check the National Modular Housing Council’s web page for a directory of modular home manufacturers and other helpful information on modular housing.
  • Modular Homes Manufacturer Directory. Modular Today’s state by state list of modular home manufacturers is thorough, including cities/areas served within the listed states.
  • The National Association of Home Builders. An excellent site for those interested in building any kind of home, the NAHB’s directory of modular home manufacturers will assist you in finding the manufacturer for you.

Once you’ve determined which modular home manufacturers are serving your location, a smart way to quickly narrow your choices down is to visit the Modular Building Systems Association’s
directory search , which will quickly allow you to see which manufacturers are members of the MBSA, which is the professional organization of modular home manufacturers. A manufacturer who is a member of the MBSA is more likely to be an established, trustworthy modular home provider.

Creating list of at least two to five modular home manufacturers to choose from is a great starting point. Having several options allows you the freedom to select your dream modular home from a larger number of available house plans, and, it also allows you to find the best value for your money.

Contact each of the modular home manufacturers on your list with the following questions in hand:

  • How many different house plans do you offer?
  • Will I be able to customize the home I choose?
  • What, if any, options do I have when it comes to building materials?
  • Can I visit your factory to see a home similar to mine being built?
  • Can you suggest a general contractor in my area, or can I have the general contractor of my choice contact you?

In addition to these questions, you will also want to ask the modular home manufacturers you contact about the financial aspects of the transaction, about the time to delivery, and about the home’s warranty.

The modular home manufacturer’s willingness to answer your questions thoroughly – and, hopefully, offer additional information – is an excellent indication of how well your working relationship will go. Be skeptical of any manufacturer who doesn’t answer your questions to your understanding, or is not forthcoming with information.

The most valuable information you should request from the modular home manufacturers you contact is a list of references. References from other modular homebuyers will allow you to hear from the most important person involved in the modular home building process – the homeowner. Ask the homeowner about his or her experience both with the building process, and with living in the completed home. Also, if you plan to customize your home dramatically, ask for references from other homeowners who also bought custom modular homes, so that you can get an idea of what to expect. Most importantly, beware of any modular home manufacturer who will not provide references.

Choosing the modular home manufacturer who best fits your housing needs will make the process of building your modular home more pleasant – and less stressful. Choose your modular home manufacturer carefully by asking lots of questions, checking references, and going with your gut. You won’t be sorry.

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