Saturday, October 19, 2024

The Basics of Mobile Home Insurance Costs & Coverage

Mobile home insurance costs and coverage — Write a list of all valuable possessions, and document where they're covered in each of your policies.

Insurance is a must-have for protecting against many of life’s unexpected circumstances. People buy auto insurance to protect their vehicles, health insurance to protect their bodies and minds, and business insurance to protect their businesses. Getting mobile home insurance is just as important, as it protects your investment in a safe and livable manufactured home.

In this guide, we’ll talk about the basics of mobile home insurance that you need to know. From coverage to cost to options, here are the essential facts—plus an easy way to get a better rate on your mobile home insurance policy.

What Does Mobile Home Insurance Cover?

Mobile and manufactured homes often fall into the same spectrum of personal property as boats and RVs. This creates an incongruity between the way that site-built homes and manufactured homes are insured. Mobile homes are evaluated differently from site-built homes. Land ownership typically is separate from the actual home.

There are a number of advantages to buying and insuring a mobile home. However, depending on where and how your home is situated, you’ll need to consider varying forms of coverage.

A typical mobile home insurance policy will cover all of the following:

Physical Damage: Covers home repairs if your manufactured home is damaged by physical events such as natural disasters, fire, vandalism, wild animals or burst pipes.
Personal Property: Covers the cost of replacing your personal property (such as appliances, furniture, electronics, clothes and tools) if it’s stolen or damaged.
Liability: Covers your liabilities if someone sues you after being injured on your property, or if something on your property causes damage to someone else’s (such as a tree falling on another home in your mobile home community).
Loss of Use: Covers your extra temporary living expenses (such as fuel and hotel stays) if your manufactured home suffers an event that makes it uninhabitable.

Should any of these events occur, the policyholder can file a claim with their insurance company and receive funds that will help them recover. Some mobile home insurance policies may provide additional coverage options, such as coverage for moving your mobile home.

If you rent your mobile home, consider a mobile home renters insurance policy. This will help protect your possessions in the event that they’re damaged by fire, floods or other circumstances, and it will cover loss of use expenses in the event that your home becomes uninhabitable (such as a fire).

How Much Does Mobile Home Insurance Cost?

The cost of mobile home insurance can vary widely. Typical policies can range all the way from $250 to $1,300 per year. The most important factors in determining cost are:

Coverage Limit: Your policy will have coverage limits that place a cap on how much the insurance company will pay for your claim. Policies with higher limits will have higher premiums. Before you buy a policy, make sure you calculate the approximate replacement value of your manufactured home and possessions to ensure that your coverage is sufficient.
Deductible: The deductible is how much you must pay out of pocket for covered expenses before your insurance will pay. Policies with a higher deductible will be less expensive, but may leave you less protected from financial hardship.
ZIP Code: Mobile home insurance premiums may be more or less costly depending on your geographic region.

The best way to get a more affordable rate on mobile home insurance is to compare various insurance providers and shop around for the lowest quote. To do that, you’ll need to understand your options for finding a mobile home insurance policy.

Where Can I Get a Mobile Home Insurance Policy?

Many large insurance companies offer mobile home insurance policies (although not all do). If you already have vehicle or business insurance, an easy first step is contacting your current insurer to see if they offer mobile home insurance policies. If they do, get a premium quote, but don’t let it discourage you from shopping around for a better rate.

In addition to cost, you should consider these factors when evaluating an insurance provider:

How user-friendly the insurer’s website and app are
Whether the insurer’s customer service is friendly and responsive
Whether the insurer offers any specialized coverage types that you need

Mobile Home Furnace Options and FAQs for Homeowners

If you have bought a mobile home and are looking for ways to refurbish it and make it as lovely and warm as possible, you have come to the right place. This mobile home furnace guide will cover the most frequent types of furnaces used explicitly for mobile homes. So, let’s jump right in!

How should I heat my mobile home?

This article will focus mainly on different types of furnaces and their advantages and disadvantages. However, if you have heard good things about other types of heating options for mobile homes, be sure to investigate alternative solutions that are available on the manufactured home refurbishment market.

Most mobile home owners opt for furnaces or heat pumps to provide a stable source of heat. Other popular choices are fireplaces and wood stoves.

Keeping your mobile home warm — A mobile house is a home only when it’s warm

When it comes to furnaces, the design can considerably vary. The primary difference is between types of internal combustion that generates heat in the furnace – so, we have up-flow, downflow, or sealed-combustion. However, the differences do not stop there. You can also choose between different energy sources, depending on your needs and your budget. In most cases, homeowners opt for electricity or gas to fuel their mobile home furnace.

mobile home fireplace — Be sure to find what the best furnace for your mobile home is – you wouldn’t want to rely on a fireplace or bonfires now, would you?

What is the difference between a mobile home furnace and a regular furnace?

Mobile home furnaces are usually smaller than regular ones since mobile homes rarely have attic space where the ducts that spread heat can be installed. Basically, the way they operate is the same, but the installation of a mobile home furnace differs from that of a regular furnace.

Can you put a regular house furnace in a mobile home?

Essentially, yes, because the difference between a mobile home furnace and a regular home furnace is slight.

However, note that heating and cooling systems in your mobile home have to be designed and rated according to specific safety standards. You will most frequently find a ‘HUD-Approved’ label on your furnace that guarantees that your heating system is ‘high static approved’, or otherwise an HVAC requirement that shows that the furnace you are using is mobile home approved. Of course, it is highly recommended that you purchase all of your appliances and gear from an authorized dealer.

How do mobile home furnaces work?

The distribution system is made up of the duct system and ventilation outlets. In general terms, the main trunk ducts inside the furnace take the heated air to your living space so that it can leave the so-called registers and spread the heat. Mobile home heating systems are most frequently made of sheet metal, and they are usually placed in the middle of the home.

If you cannot visualize this hot-mess of technical terms in your brain, just think of your heating system as a bloodstream. In this analogy, you have veins that branch out from the central artery (main trunk duct, in this case), which serve to spread blood (heat). Some people even liken the furnace to a giant toaster. Whichever analogy you prefer, all you need to know from this is that due to them being made out of sheet metal, mobile home furnaces require maintenance from an experienced handyman from time to time.

What types of furnaces are out there?

Now that you know the basics of how your new furnace should work, it is vital to compare furnaces in more detail. At first glance, it may seem as if it does not matter which one you purchase as long as they heat your home.

Types of mobile home furnaces — Although a furnace invokes imagery of cold winters and black coal flames, there are numerous types of furnaces to choose for your mobile home in this day and age.

However, it is not so straightforward since mobile homes are typically smaller and less robust than traditional homes in terms of materials and insulation. This is not to say that mobile homes are not phenomenal structures for the purposes for which they are intended. If you are seriously considering relocating to a mobile home, keep in mind that there are many perks to having a smaller house – among which are, of course, lower utility bills.

Natural gas furnaces

Natural gas furnaces use gas to produce heat. The burners in the combustion chamber are ignited by pilot lights, which in turn push heat into the heat exchanger. The heat is then forced into the ducts that edge the walls and then go out into the air.

These types of furnaces are extremely popular with mobile home owners because of their reliability and relative quietness when turned on.

Affiliate Link Below – MHVillage receives a small commission from the seller for purchases made through this link.

Oil furnaces

These types of furnaces burn derivatives of oil to produce heat. The fuel is ignited in a high-pressure combustion chamber, which turns the oil into a hot mist that heats the furnace ducts. These types of furnaces usually heat rooms through floor vents.

Oil-based heating systems usually cost from $1,000 to $3,000, but some homeowners dislike that you have to replenish your oil supplies frequently in order to keep it running. However, this characteristic is ideal if you do not intend to live in your mobile home year-round. Another benefit of purchasing an oil furnace is that they will probably outlast any winter that comes their way but are potentially expensive to upkeep.

Electric furnaces

Electric furnaces work through cold air suction, which is then pushed out through a heat exchanger. The electricity-run machinery inside the furnace heats the cold air, and a blower then pushes the hot air into ducts.

These furnaces are known for their efficiency – they operate at almost 100% efficiency. However, the operating costs make it overall more expensive than other types of furnaces (even though the furnace itself costs from $700 to $1,100), so mobile home owners who intend to move to a colder region are not advised to purchase this type of furnace.

Heat pumps

Depending on which part of your home you want to be heated, heat pumps push hot air from one room to the other. Heat pumps are considerably more expensive than other heating systems (more than $20,000), but they are also better at energy efficiency.

Yet, the most significant advantage of buying a heat pump is that it can both heat up and cool your mobile home. So, if you plan to live or spend a lot of your free time there, this type of mobile home furnace solves all of your temperature problems at once. Note that these systems may not be ideal for colder regions since they are designed to regulate the temperature in moderate climates.

More Tips for Keeping Your Manufactured Home Warm

Looking for additional ways to prep your mobile home for the cold weather? Read up on our tips for how to winterize your mobile home, and check out our useful guide to making sure your manufactured home is properly insulated.

Are Mobile Homes Safe?

For most homeowners, safety is priority number one when it comes to choosing a home. Your home is where you and your family will sleep and where you’ll store your most prized possessions, so it’s easy to understand why safety is a big concern for so many homeowners.

How Safe Are Manufactured and Mobile Homes?

This is a common question that many homebuyers ask. Fortunately, the news is good: Manufactured homes built after 1976 are required to follow a strict and federally enforced building standard that makes them extremely safe. In this article, we’ll talk about how the HUD code works and why it makes manufactured homes safe, as well as steps that manufactured homeowners can take to make their homes safer.

How the HUD Code Protects Manufactured Homeowners

The HUD Code (officially called the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards) is one of the biggest reasons why manufactured homes are so safe today. (“Mobile homes” is a term that actually refers to pre-HUD Code homes, and it’s an inaccurate term when used to refer to today’s manufactured housing.)

Before the introduction of the HUD Code in 1976, mobile homes were not required to be built to any specific set of standards or building codes. The HUD Code established strict standards for (among other factors) home size, fire resistance, energy efficiency, and the steel chassis on which all manufactured homes are built.

mobile home construction safety — The highly automated factory floor at Clayton Wakarusa

Any manufactured home that is built in accordance with HUD standards will have a red metal plaque–officially called the Certification Label but informally known as the HUD tag–affixed to its outer walls on the long side. Double wide and multi-section homes will have one HUD tag for each home section. The HUD tag certifies that the home has been designed and built in compliance with the HUD Code.

To this day, the HUD Code is still the only federally administered building code. This means that any manufactured home that is constructed in the U.S. since 1976 must follow the HUD Code, and that manufactured home buyers can be sure of what they’re getting when they purchase any HUD-compliant manufactured home.

One important way that the HUD Code protects manufactured home owners is through the wind zone system. The HUD Code includes regulations that divide the U.S. into zones based on expected maximum wind intensity, and any manufactured home sold in the U.S. must be rated for the wind zone where it will be installed. To learn about a home’s wind zone rating, you can find the manufactured home data plate installed in a cabinet or closet area.

Facts About Manufactured Home Safety

Here are a few more reasons why buying a manufactured home is a great choice for safety and security:

Manufactured homes are assembled in climate-controlled factories where they’re sheltered from the elements–unlike site-built homes, which may be exposed to potentially hazardous weather conditions during construction.
Each part of a manufactured home is precision-manufactured to meet highly standardized safety regulations.
Manufactured homes are just as resistant to fire as site-built homes are. In fact,
U.S. map of wind zones for mobile homes

according to a study by the National Fire Protection Association, manufactured homes have up to 44 percent fewer fires than site-built homes do.
Over time, wind safety standards have continually been upgraded, including after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. When hurricanes struck Florida in 2004, not one manufactured home built and installed after 1994 was destroyed by winds.

How to Make Your Manufactured Home the Safest It Can Be

Manufactured homes are built to high safety standards, but that doesn’t mean that homeowners can’t make their homes even safer. There are some relatively simple steps that homeowners can take for a more secure manufactured home, including:

Get a manufactured home inspection by a qualified professional before purchasing any
Fire safety for manufactured and mobile homes.

manufactured home.
Make sure your manufactured home is equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them regularly and change the batteries if needed.
Keep at least two fire extinguishers in your manufactured home (one near the kitchen and one near the furnace).
Create an emergency plan with your family members for safely evacuating your manufactured home.
Always use a qualified professional manufactured home installer to install a new manufactured home.
Consider having your manufactured home attached to a permanent foundation such as a concrete slab foundation. A permanent foundation will offer your home additional protection against certain hazardous weather conditions such as high winds.

At MHVillage, we care about the safety and security of manufactured homes just as much as homebuyers do. For more information, check out our essential mobile home security checklist and our list of important things to look for when buying a used manufactured home.

6 Gorgeous Ranch Style Modular Homes

Ranch style modular home Prescott by Genesis Homes — Photo courtesy of Genesis Homes.

The versatility, elegance, and cost-effectiveness of ranch homes has made them one of America’s most popular home styles since the mid-20th century. The ranch home, defined by its single-story, long horizontal design, large windows, gentle roof pitch, and spacious interior, isn’t just iconic—it’s also still a uniquely efficient and appealing design with lots of great examples on the market today.

Ranch style modular homes have become particularly popular as homebuyers explore the many benefits of modular housing. These six ranch style modular homes are outstanding examples of the high-quality building and aesthetic excellence that buyers have come to associate with factory-built homes.

1. Genesis Homes Prescott

3 Bed
2 Bath
1,527 Square Feet

Ranch style modular home - Prescott by Genesis — Photo courtesy of Genesis Homes.

The Prescott is a timeless ranch design with plenty of space, an attractive front gable roof and an attached garage. A covered front porch provides space for enjoying a nice day, and numerous windows offer ample natural light throughout.

Ranch style modular home floor plan — Photo courtesy of Genesis Homes.

The Prescott is available in both two- and three-bedroom designs. The two-bedroom Prescott (shown above) includes two full-sized master bed and bath suites, while the three-bedroom model offers a third room that makes this home a great choice for families or anyone who wants a little extra space for hosting guests.

2. Clayton Homes Bordeaux

3 Bed
2 Bath
2,000 Square Feet

Bordeaux by Clayton Homes — Photo courtesy of Clayton Homes.

The Bordeaux’s wood frame exterior will make you think you’ve been transported to the French countryside, but inside, this ranch is thoroughly modern. The exceptionally roomy and bright kitchen has an island counter that’s ideal for entertaining, and the dining room includes big windows that let in lots of light.

Ranch style modular home interior - Bordeaux by Clayton Homes — Photo courtesy of Clayton Homes.

In the living room, you’ll find more of the Bordeaux’s signature architectural charm, with wooden beam accents on the ceiling and a built-in entertainment center using a distinctive archway style. If you like the antique and rustic style but aren’t crazy about buying an old, high-maintenance site-built house, the Bordeaux can give you the best of both worlds.

3. Clayton Homes Anniversary

3 Bed
2 Bath
1,080 Square Feet

Anniversary by Clayton Homes — Photo courtesy of Clayton Homes.

This Clayton modular ranch home takes it back to basics and proves why the ranch is still king. The Anniversary is built for efficient elegance, with an open floor plan that creates roomier interiors and enough bedrooms and bathrooms for a growing family.

Inside, you’ll find a home full of elegant farmhouse-style touches, including a breakfast bar and available shiplap accents. If you’re looking for a home that’s equal parts practical and delightful, the Anniversary is for you.

4. Skyline Homes Arlington

3 Bed
2 Bath
1,664 Square Feet

Arlington by Skyline Champion — Photo courtesy of Skyline Champion.

The Arlington floor plan is a picture-perfect vision of the American ranch home, with its large windows and traditional exterior. Shingle siding accents create a pleasant offset that flanks the front door.

Inside, the Arlington is airy and elegant, with striking trim designs, tray ceilings and built-in cabinets. Arlington models also come with a variety of optional additions, including walk-in shower baths, extra cabinets and a laundry tub. A perfect place for those who want to have it all.

5. Genesis Homes Clearwater

3 Bed
2 Bath
1,546 Square Feet

Clearwater by Genesis Homes — Photo courtesy of Genesis Homes.

The Clearwater takes the ranch concept and flips it, creating a “long ranch” that’s perfect for home sites with a lot of depth. This elegant home comes with a covered front entryway and easily accommodates an attached two-car garage, and a covered back porch provides a great space for outdoor family fun.

The master bedroom and bath suite includes a jumbo closet and double sinks, and a spacious great room provides all the room you need for entertaining and family time. That’s one of the great things about a ranch—any way you flip it, the design is a winner.

6. Deer Valley Woodland Series Orchard House

4 Bed
3 Bath
2,580 Square Feet

Woodland Series Orchard House by Deer Valley — Photo courtesy of Deer Valley.

For those who need a little more from their modular ranch home, the Orchard House from Deer Valley Homebuilders is an ideal choice. This king-sized modular home sports four full-size bedrooms and three baths, plus a family room and study.

The elegance of the Orchard House is on full display in the kitchen, with an eye-catching tile backsplash, ornate reverse tray ceiling, and full-length island counter. Elsewhere in the house, the study/office is perfect for anyone who works at home and a rustic fireplace creates the perfect cozy atmosphere.

Advancements in technology have made modern manufactured homes better and more versatile than ever before. To check out more great options on the market now, head over to our manufactured home floor plans page for ranches and more, or take a look at some more of today’s best modular home designs.

6 Mobile Home Security Systems for Every Budget

A security system is something that every homeowner hopes they’ll never need, but many want to have—just in case. Manufactured homes need security systems just as much as site-built homes do, and there are a variety of options available for outfitting your manufactured home with high-performance security.

These six mobile home security systems will help to keep your manufactured home safe and sound. Many include cutting-edge features such as smart home integration and mobile device apps, and each offers unique features and advantages that homeowners will appreciate.

Mobile Home Security Systems $100 and Under

1. Globe Electric Wi-Fi Smart Indoor Security Camera ($50.73)

Indoor security cameras are a key part of many homeowners’ security systems. These cameras continuously monitor a home for signs of trouble, and many of today’s models include the ability to monitor a home remotely using a mobile app.

Globe Electric’s smart security cameras are among the best bargains in manufactured home security. These indoor security cameras include many of the key features of more expensive security cameras, including Wi-Fi integration, an included app and compatibility with smart home assistants such as Google Home and Alexa.

2. Heath Zenith LED Outdoor Floodlight – Motion Sensor Activated ($54.37)

Security lights are among the most cost-effective security upgrades that a manufactured home owner can make. A simple motion sensor-activated light creates bright exterior light when activated, giving you an advantage in deterring potential intruders. Strategically placing two or three security lights can give a homeowner near-complete coverage of their home.

At just over $50 apiece, the Heath Zenith can be the perfect bargain for homeowners who need a cost-effective security solution. These rugged motion-activated polycarbonate lights can be mounted on walls or eaves and feature a 180-degree adjustable range.

Mobile Home Security Systems $100-$250

1. Kwikset SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt with Z-Wave Technology ($128.26)

The lock on your door is among the first lines of defense, and keyless code locks have many advantages—you’ll never lose your house key again, re-keying is a snap and sharing the code with friends or family is simple. Kwikset is known as a manufacturer of durable locks and security hardware, and its new line of SmartCode Electronic Deadbolts is setting a new standard for manufactured home door locks.

The SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt features Z-Wave technology, a cutting-edge wireless tech integration system that allows remote access and control through a compatible automation system. It can be installed in minutes without any complex wiring, fits standard doors with no need to re-drill screw holes and features a tough motorized deadbolt for trustworthy security.

2. Honeywell Home 1080p C2 Indoor Wi-Fi Security Camera ($158.85)

This high-tech security camera comes equipped with an ultra-HD lens that captures everything in 1080p quality. With its night vision-enabled design, the Honeywell C2 stays on alert with clear images at any time of day or night, and all video recorded can be stored in the cloud or on a MicroSD card. And it’s not limited to video, either. Homeowners can either listen or speak through the C2’s two-way audio.

The Honeywell C2 allows sophisticated mobile control of its systems through both Android and iOS and lets users create mobile alerts and monitor their home while they’re away. Users can also easily control settings to adjust alert zones and hone in on what matters.

Affiliate Link Below – MHVillage receives a small commission from the seller for purchases made through this link

Mobile Home Security Systems $250 and Up

1. Nest Secure Alarm System Starter Pack ($399.00)

This Nest security starter pack gives homeowners everything they need to get a Nest alarm system set up. You’ll find two Nest motion sensors and a Nest alarm system in this package, plus two Nest Tags, which allow residents to arm and disarm their Nest security system with a simple tap of a tag on a sensor.

The Nest system is packed with features, including sensors that detect open doors and windows, a Quiet Open mode for leaving early in the morning and the ability to light outdoor paths at night by using your motion sensors. A Dog Pass feature even lets small dogs pass without activating the alarm.

2. Nest Cam IQ Outdoor Security Camera ($349.00)

There’s no denying that Nest currently rules the roost when it comes to home security systems, and Nest owners who want to improve their outdoor security will find the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor Security Camera to be a great buy. This camera stays live 24/7 and records in 1080p, with an IP66 waterproof rating to protect against wet weather and the ability to recognize individual people and notify you who’s at the door.

Security is a must-have for any homeowner. Take a look at our mobile home security checklist to learn about other important security upgrades from MHVillage, the manufactured home experts.

Can You Get a USDA Loan for a Manufactured Home?

Legacy manufactured home and land — Photo courtesy of Legacy Housing.

Every year, the United States Department of Agriculture provides billions of dollars in loans that help people purchase their homes. These low-interest lending programs provide a path to homeownership for hundreds of thousands of people—and if you’re thinking about buying a manufactured home, you should know that you might be eligible for one of them.

If you live in a rural area and have been wondering how to get a loan for a mobile home, USDA manufactured housing loans might be exactly what you need. Let’s look at what these loans are, who qualifies for them and how a homebuyer can apply for one.

What Is a USDA Manufactured Home Loan?

USDA loans are low-interest and zero down payment loans that are intended to help people in rural parts of America afford quality housing. There are three major types of USDA manufactured housing loans:

Guaranteed Loans: Mortgages originated by a private lender and guaranteed by the USDA (much like FHA loans).
Direct Loans: Mortgages issued directly by the USDA for people who are currently without safe and sanitary housing and ineligible for other sources of financing.
Home Improvement Loans and Grants: Loans and grants that help people repair and improve existing housing.

Lexington Skyline Mobile Home Living Interior — A home by Lexington Skyline. Photo courtesy of Skyline Homes.

Both guaranteed loans and direct loans can be used to buy a manufactured home. (Unfortunately, manufactured homes don’t qualify for USDA home improvement loans.) Next, we’ll find out who’s eligible for these loans.

Am I Eligible for a USDA Loan?

You don’t have to be involved in any agricultural profession to get a USDA loan. However, there are some eligibility requirements, which vary by program.

Anyone thinking about applying for a USDA manufactured home loan should carefully read the eligibility requirements for the specific program they’re applying for. A quick summary of the requirements that these programs have in common includes:

The applicant must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
The applicant must live in an eligible rural area as determined by the USDA.
The applicant must have a household income below a certain threshold which varies by area.
The applicant must use the property as their primary residence and cannot use it to produce income.

The manufactured home you’re buying must also meet certain USDA requirements, including:

Must be at least 400 square feet and 12 feet wide (for a single wide mobile home) or 20 feet wide (for a double wide mobile home).
Must comply with the federal HUD code for manufactured home safety and quality. (All new manufactured homes meet this code.)
Must be located in a rural area (although some outer suburban areas may qualify).
Must be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.

As with any loan, applicants with better credit will typically receive more favorable terms, but people with any credit score can and should apply. Homebuyers with lower credit may be able to use alternative references such as landlords.

The USDA Rural Development Loan Process

The application process for a USDA manufactured home loan begins with talking to a lender that issues USDA loans. To get started, check the USDA’s approved lenders database for lenders near you.
Once you’ve found a lender, they’ll guide you through the prequalification process for the specific loan you’re applying for. During prequalification, a loan agent will work with you to determine how much you may be eligible to borrow. If your prequalification is approved, you’ll move to a more intensive step called preapproval.
During preapproval, the lender will perform a hard credit inquiry and will ask to see forms such as W-2s and tax returns to determine your debt-to-income ratio. They’ll provide you with a contingent offer for how much you qualify for, and you can start house-hunting.
When you find a great manufactured home for sale, the USDA will send an appraiser to ensure that the home you’re buying meets their standards.
You’ll sign a purchase agreement, and your loan will move to the processing and underwriting stage. This can take longer with a USDA loan than with a traditional mortgage, as both the lender and the USDA must approve the loan, but buyers with a credit score above 640 can qualify for expedited underwriting.
You’ll sign the closing paperwork for your new manufactured home and begin construction.

Looking at your options for financing a manufactured home? MHVillage offers expert advice. Read up on the top mobile home financing companies, or explore the different types of mobile home financing available.

A Quick, Useful Guide to Mobile Home Plumbing

Buying a mobile home is, in many ways, different than your regular real estate purchase. One of the vital aspects to inspect is mobile home plumbing, as understanding this part of the home can help you save a lot of money. Furthermore, you will learn how to recognize the difference between the right mobile home and a bad investment.

The Basics of Mobile Home Plumbing

To be able to dive into little details of mobile home plumbing, it is crucial to understand the basics:

piping materials
location of the pipes
venting procedure
the most common plumbing issues in mobile homes

Piping materials

Most new mobile homes have PEX or CPVC tubing. These pipes are sturdy, and they even may last longer than copper pipes.

If you are buying a mobile home with this type of pipes, or the one that was re-piped, you will be just fine.

Location of the pipes

The main difference when talking about the pipes’ location in mobile homes is that they don’t come out of the walls like in apartments or houses. Instead, they are placed below the floor, which is a more practical layout in this case. A couple of words of caution when replacing or fixing the pipes:

Straight stop valves are more convenient to use
Think about how much space you need when placing a sink; pipes have to go up to connect to it

The venting procedure

Venting the pipes in a mobile home is usually done with the help of an under-the-sink air valve. While it may not look as appealing, it is a practical solution that takes the home’s design into account.

The most common plumbing issues in mobile homes

It is crucial to understand the problems you may encounter with plumbing in mobile homes. That is the only way to learn how to deal with them quickly and without any unexpected situations.

Low pressure

If an aerator in your sink is clogged, this may be the reason why the water pressure is low. Either cleaning or replacing the part should solve the issue quickly.

In case there is a clog in one of the pressures reducing valves, it may also cause low water pressure. Learn where all the valves are and how to unclog them.

Affiliate Link – MHVillage receives a small commission from the seller for purchases made through this link.

Slow drainage

Slow drainage in the bathroom is another issue caused by a clogged pipe, usually because of hair buildup. The best way to deal with this issue is to use a hand snake, a handy tool that goes directly inside the drain and pushes the clog through.

A leaking outside faucet — Leaks typically occur if there is a pipe separation, and faucets usually have an issue with the opening-closing valve.

Water backflows into the bathtub once flushed

This is another issue that happens because of a clog, this time in the drain line. The best way to solve this issue is to use a closet auger. It works just like the snake tool, but it is much more convenient for this problem.

Foul odors issue

In case of foul odors, it can be because of:

bad ventilation system
pipe separation

Locating the issue is the first step towards fixing it. Keep in mind that the easiest way to track pipe separation is to look for leaks.

Leaks

Leaks are not only an issue in mobile homes; they happen in every household. However, in our case, this usually occurs with the showerheads or the faucets. The best way to deal with both of these issues is to hire professional assistance.

The lack of clean-outs

If there is a sewer drain line stoppage, in 9 out of 10 cases, it is because there are no clean-outs installed. This is the case with mobile homes. The primary function of these types of valves is to fix this issue without too much hassle. With that in mind, if this happens to you, do not flush or use water anywhere. Close all the valves and call the plumber immediately.

How much does it cost to fix plumbing issues in a mobile home?

Replumbing an entire mobile home is somewhere between $1,500 and $4,000. Here is where you can see an additional benefit of using quality plastic pipes. For example, the price for PEX per linear foot ranges from $0.40 to $0.50. This is a fantastic price if we consider that new copper pipes cost around $3 to $8.

A water stream coming out of a water pipe — To have proper water flow in your mobile home, it is crucial to perform regular maintenance.

Key takeaways

This short but useful guide should provide you with enough information to understand how mobile home plumbing works. As you can see, many issues may happen, but there are also effective ways to fix them. Mobile homes hold great value on the market, and whether you want to buy or sell, or even rent one, professional mobile home dealers will gladly assist you!

Article contributed by Sophia Perry

5 Delightful Cottage Style Mobile Homes

When you think of a cottage, do you picture a quaint, thatched-roof home in the English countryside? That’s certainly how the name originated. Tenant farmers of the British Isles, known in the old days as cotters, lived in small and simple dwellings called cottages.

Today, however, a cottage style mobile home is much more than that. Cottage style mobile homes are charming and elegant dwellings that share any number of a certain set of “cottage” features, such as:

Pitched roof
Small porch
Large windows
Warm and cozy atmosphere

If you’re dreaming of a cottage style mobile home to nestle down in, these five homes are available on MHVillage right now. Each uses one or more elements of cottage style design to make you feel right at home.

1. Redman Homes Creekside Manor 6622L

2 Bed, 2 Bath
888 sq. ft.

With an oversized front window and a traditional covered porch, the Redman Homes Creekside Manor 6622L makes an impression right out of the gate. It’s a fusion of the old and new principles of cottage-style design.

A bright and cheery kitchen offers a double sink and plenty of counter space, plus elegant Shaker cabinets. It’s an ideal spot for crafting your next great meal.

And if the cottage of your dreams includes ample spaces for relaxation, you’re in luck, because the 6622L includes a soaker tub for a luxurious and relaxing bath. A water closet provides extra privacy.

2. Champion Homes YS 2842A

3 Bed, 2 Bath
1,120 sq. ft.

For those seeking the perfect balance of coziness and entertaining capacity, you’ll find it in the Champion Homes YS 2842A. On the exterior, a large deck provides a great space for enjoying a summer barbecue or reading on a sunny day.

Inside, the 2842A has a floor plan that feels roomy without sacrificing the intimate vibe of a cottage home. An eat-in kitchen provides an ideal family gathering space and numerous windows keep the space well-lit.

The master suite of the 2842A is equally well-equipped, with a large walk-in closet and a deluxe master bathroom. Three full-sized bedrooms provide plenty of space for family and hobbies.

3. Homes of Merit HOMC 4563B

3 Bed, 2 Bath
1,494 sq. ft.

A cottage style mobile home doesn’t have to be small. Just take a look at the full-sized Homes of Merit HOMC 4563B. With its three-gable design and a front porch that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon, it’s both modern and spacious while maintaining a cozy feel.

The 4563B’s interior is unmistakably contemporary, with wooden accents and recessed lighting that convey tasteful elegance. Optional tray ceilings, combined with modern lighting fixtures, create an airy atmosphere for this cottage style mobile home.

Living spaces are another strong point of the 4563B. An optional built-in entertainment center provides a farmhouse-esque storage solution for your favorite electronics, and large windows keep the space lit with mood-boosting natural light throughout the year.

4. Athens Park Model RV 509

1 Bed, 1 Bath
399 sq. ft.

With their compact design and simple appeal, park model RVs are uniquely well-suited as cottage style mobile homes. Those who love country charm will feel right at home in the Athens Park Model RV 509, with its sliding door entry, large transom windows, and micro footprint.

The 509 proves that even a very small cottage style mobile home can feel spacious. Its living room provides an outstanding setting for family fun and togetherness, and an optional storage loft offers extra room for those who need it.

The kitchen and bedroom layouts feature a just-right-sized design, with gorgeous countertops and modern all-black appliances. Recessed lighting sets a tone that’s both intimate and friendly.

5. Skyline Homes Westridge 1218CT

2 Bed, 2 Bath
1,354 sq. ft.

Blurring the lines between cabin and cottage, the Skyline Homes Westridge 1218CT is an ideal fit for those who love rural-style living with modern amenities. An enormous gabled porch and oversized windows are perfect for those who love a great view and cherish outdoor time.

A charming country kitchen comes equipped with an island counter and modern appliances. A double sink and tile backsplash complete the kitchen of this cottage style mobile home.

Vaulted ceilings throughout give this home its beautiful character. A combination living room/dining room area is an inspired space for family time, and a cozy den provides the perfect space for a home office or media room.

Ready to See More?

Looking for more manufactured homes that pack lots of great things into a small package? See our small manufactured homes for other outstanding options, or discover some cabin-style mobile homes that will give you a similarly quaint atmosphere.

Can You Get a Home Warranty on a Manufactured Home?

Most manufactured homeowners protect their property through common-sense methods like security systems, fire alarms, and preventive tree maintenance. However, there’s another tool for home protection that not every homeowner has: home warranties.

A home warranty helps homeowners avoid being blindsided by repair and maintenance costs. It’s an extremely useful tool for creating financial stability for almost any homeowner. But can you get a home warranty for a mobile home?

Fortunately, the answer is yes—you can get a home warranty on many types of manufactured homes. In this article, we’ll discuss the key facts about home warranties for manufactured homes, including what they cover, what they don’t cover, and how much homeowners can expect to pay.

What Is a Manufactured Home Warranty?

A manufactured home warranty is similar in many ways to a warranty on an automobile. If the homeowner needs certain types of repairs made to their home, the warranty will cover some or all of the repair costs.

Typically, the process for using your manufactured home warranty works like this:

The homeowner contacts the administrator of the warranty and tells them what kind of service they need (such as plumbing, appliance replacement, etc.)
The warranty administrator will contact an appropriate professional and send them to complete the homeowner’s needed repairs.
The service professional will diagnose the problem and perform the repair for the homeowner.
The homeowner will pay a low service charge rather than the full cost of the repair.

Manufactured home warranties generally fall into one of two categories:

Manufacturer’s Warranty: A warranty that the manufacturer includes with the purchase of a new manufactured home. Manufacturer’s warranties are usually included in the price of a new manufactured home.
Extended Warranty: A warranty that a homeowner purchases to supplement the manufacturer’s warranty or after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. The homeowner pays a monthly or yearly premium, making it similar to an insurance policy.

Why Get a Manufactured Home Warranty?

The major advantage of a manufactured home warranty is that it helps pay for repairs that might otherwise be unaffordable. Services such as electrical or plumbing repairs, which are critical for maintaining a safe and livable home, can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

With a mobile home warranty, you’ll always have the security and peace of mind that comes with knowing that your manufactured home is protected. It also helps you receive quicker and more convenient service when a problem arises, since you can simply call your warranty company rather than calling multiple contractors to find a lower quote.

Finally, a warranty can be an attractive extra when selling a manufactured home. Buyers love to know that key systems of their homes are covered by a warranty, so some manufactured home sellers choose to purchase one before selling their homes.

Where Can You Get a Manufactured Home Warranty?

As previously mentioned, most home manufacturers include one-year warranties on new homes that they sell. These warranties cover any potential defects in the construction, plumbing, wiring or other key home systems of your manufactured home. You may also be able to purchase an extended five-year or ten-year warranty through your home’s manufacturer.

Homeowners can also buy an extended manufactured home warranty from a third party. Before you purchase a manufactured home warranty, do some research on the warranty company to ensure that they’re legitimate and well-regarded. It’s also important to carefully examine the terms of the warranty offered so that you’ll know exactly what’s covered under your policy.

Limitations of a Manufactured Home Warranty

A manufactured home warranty doesn’t cover everything. While coverage can vary from one warranty policy to another, the common theme is that a warranty covers “normal wear and tear.”

What isn’t considered normal wear and tear? A few examples:

Damage caused by natural disasters
Damage caused by a lack of basic home maintenance
Damage caused by misused or incorrectly installed appliances
Cosmetic defects
Damage to a manufactured home that’s being used as a place of business
Routine maintenance for appliances
Pre-existing damages, whether known to the homeowner or not

When buying a mobile home warranty, make sure to read its terms and conditions in detail to learn what is and isn’t covered.

How Much Does a Manufactured Home Warranty Cost?

For most manufactured home warranties, you’ll pay a monthly fee. The most popular manufactured home warranty products cost between $25 and $50 per month, depending on the level of coverage.

Lower levels of coverage typically include the basics of livable housing such as plumbing, heating and electrical systems. Higher ones include systems such as air conditioning, refrigerators, septic systems and pools. Some warranty companies may let you combine individual coverages you want in a custom package.

Interested in more ways to protect your manufactured home and keep it in great shape? Read our guide to mobile home roofing.

Big Family? Check Out These 5 Bedroom Mobile Homes

Manufactured homes are known for providing more space for the money than comparable site-built homes, and 5 bedroom mobile homes are the biggest of the big. If your family needs the maximum amount of room, a 5 bedroom manufactured home provides a great value and abundant space for living life.

Curious about what these mammoth mobile homes look like and what features they include? Here are five great five-bedroom mobile home models that will wow you with contemporary styling, expansive interior space, and great value.

1. Skyline Homes Spring View 6806

The Spring View 6806 is an attractive and contemporary home with an optional fifth bedroom that makes it a great option for large families. At 2,432 square feet, the Spring View has plenty of room for five bedrooms plus three bathrooms, including a generously sized master bath suite.

The Spring View’s kitchen is equipped with a breakfast bar that seats four for casual dining, and an included dining room chandelier creates a classy and elegant look from the moment you walk in. Tray ceilings in the Spring View’s living room make the home’s atmosphere airy and pleasant, and wooden beam accents throughout create a stately beauty.

2. Champion Homes Ridgecrest LE 3204

The Ridgecrest LE 3204 is among the largest homes in Champion’s popular Ridgecrest line, which brings a classic ranch-style floor plan and farmhouse design elements to manufactured homes—with a contemporary update. Coming in at 2,062 square feet, the 3204 provides plenty of space for family life and entertaining friends.

Ridgecrest models feature attractive built-in cabinets, and the LE 3204 even comes with a breakfast nook for a cozy meal or cup of coffee. With a living space that’s this cozy and pleasant, home really will be where your heart is.

3. Skyline Homes Custom Villa B304CT

The Custom Villa is designed for comfort and efficiency, with five bedrooms and three baths in a 1,813 square foot space. It’s a great choice for homebuyers who want an exceptional value and plenty of room with a relatively modest footprint.

An optional sliding glass door provides quick patio access to enjoy beautiful weather, and an eat-in kitchen with an island counter is an ideal spot for entertaining and cooking. The fully-equipped master bed and bath suite includes a large walk-in closet and a double sink for a luxurious touch that will make every day a little bit better.

4. Redman Homes Next Generation NG76

The Next Generation NG76 is a bright and contemporary five-bedroom mobile home with 2,204 square feet of space and all of the modern conveniences that today’s buyers expect. Handsome trim and a triple-gable design give the exterior a distinct but friendly feel.

Inside the home, an included utility/laundry/mudroom helps keep your home clean and organized, and the master bathroom suite includes a walk-in shower with a separate tub, plus abundant closet space. The NG76 also has numerous customization options available, including the option to replace a bedroom with an office space, reposition bedroom closets or even treat yourself to a Radiant spa bath.

5. Champion Homes Cimarron 3276T

With a 2,299 square foot design including five bedrooms, three baths, and a combination kitchen/living room/morning room suite, the Cimarron 3276T offers a big and bountiful space that’s great for large families. It’s a classic ranch-style design that makes a beautiful country or suburban home.

The Cimarron’s open concept floor plan combines the living room, dining room, and kitchen into one spacious zone for family life, and a morning room offers a quiet place to start your day. In the master bathroom, a water closet offers additional privacy and a separate tub and shower round out the luxurious package.

On the Hunt for a Large Mobile Home?

MHVillage is the #1 source for manufactured homes in all shapes and sizes. For more jumbo-sized mobile homes, check out our article on big mobile homes, or read our guide to quadruple wide mobile homes.

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