Factory Built Home FAQs

Did you know that...

• 19 million Americans lived full-time in manufactured homes - in 2010.
• Manufactured Home account for 11% of the housing stock.
• In 2010, the industry shipped 50,046 homes from 124 manufacturing facilities.
• Multi-sectional shipments outpaced single-section taking 59.3% of the total shipments.
• All manufactured homes are built to the federal HUD Code, with each home going through a rigorous inspection process before being certified and sold. 2011 marks the 30th anniversary of the HUD Code.
• According to the 2010 Census - 74% of the new manufactured homes were located on private property, and 26% were located in communities.
• In 2010, the average sales price of a manufactured home was $62,800. Single-section homes average - $39,300 and multi-section average $74,500.

What is the difference between "modular" and "manufactured?"

Both homes are "built" in the controlled environment of a factory. A manufactured home, usually one story, is 90% to 100% completed in the factory and then transported in sections...usually or 1 or 2 sections to the community or private lot. In Delaware, all manufactured homes are sold by a licensed retailer. Once the home is delivered to its home site, it is then installed by a certified installer and the finishing work is completed on the home. A manufactured home comes with a "seal of approval" from the Department of Housing and Urban Development therefore a manufactured home is frequently referred to as a HUD Code Home. A modular home is constructed in components in the factory and then a specialized builder assembles these components and adds the desired amenties on the home owners private property. Modular homes can be one or two stories and meet state and local agency approval just the same as site built homes. FSMHA is proud to have both HUD Code home manufacturers and Modular manufacturers as our members. We would be pleased to discuss each type with you and hopefully lead you to making the choice that is best for you and your family.

Exactly what is the HUD code?

Simply put, the HUD code is a nationally recognized building code. When your home has the HUD code seal attached to its exterior then it meets the regional standards for roof load, wind resistance, thermal efficiency, safety and durability. Manufactured homes are the only homes....factory manufactured or site built....that meet the federal governments stringent regulations. The HUD code became a federal law in 1976.

What is the difference between a single-section and a multi-section?

Each type offers the homeowner a myriad of architectural styles so don't limit yourself. The basic difference between the two types of homes is the size. A single-section is constructed to be 12 to 16 feet wide and up to 80 feet in length, providing over 1,000 square feet of livable space. Multi-section homes are usually two or more units joined together that can range from 24-32 feet in width and up to 80 feet in length; giving the homeowner up to 2,500 square feet in length. Today's homebuyer has a vast selection of styles and sizes for which to choose.

What can I afford?

When you visit a retail center you will see many different style homes as well as many different manufacturers. Take your time to decide what you want....and what you can live without. Then sit down with the licensed retail salesperson. They can help you find what best suits your needs and budget.

Where can my home be placed?

You have a number of possibilities for your home's location. First you can place your home on property that you own as long as the land is zoned for manufactured housing. You may also place your home in a community where you typically own the home and lease the land. Whichever option you choose, select an area that can adequately accommodate your home and your lifestyle.

How is my home installed?

A manufactured or modular home must be sited in accordance with the manufacturers designs. New manufactured homes must be installed by a certified installer. They can go on basements or crawl spaces - the choice is yours. Click here for more information.

What about the resale value of my home?

The resale value is of course determined by your maintenance of the home, the landscaping done to set the house off, and the economy of the area in which you live when you are ready to sell the home. A manufactured home will be just as resellable as a site built home and will keep up with home appreciation value if it is well maintained.