The Beginners Guide to Mobile Home Insulation

The Role of Mobile Home Insulation

Insulation plays an important role in maintaining the livability of your mobile home. The proper insulation will not only ensure that your home remains comfortable throughout the year, but it can also save you significant money on heating bills.

The main difference between mobile and manufactured homes is their time of construction. The mobile home is the name for the homes built before 1976 when the construction became more strictly regulated. A home built after these regulations is referred to as a manufactured home.

If you live in an older mobile home, there is a good chance that it has poor insulation, if any at all. There is also a possibility of gaps in insulation throughout your home. This is all a result of minimal supervision of building standards prior to 1976. So, once you start planning a renovation, insulation should be your top priority, especially if you want to winterize your mobile home.

Our beginners’ guide to mobile home insulation will provide you with all of the information you might need.

Types of Mobile Home Insulation

There are different types of mobile home insulation you could go for. We’ll cover the most popular ones.

Blanket Insulation

This mobile home insulation comes in two forms – batts and rolls. Batts are rectangular pieces that you buy in a bundle, while rolls are cut differently and you get them in a long roll. This is one of the most common types of insulation. The batts and rolls are usually made of fiberglass, mineral wool, or natural fibers. The fibers are flexible and you can cut them to fit into spaces like studs and joints.

Foam Boards

Foam boards are much more rigid than blanket mobile home insulation. It provides excellent thermal resistance. People use it for roof insulation as well as belly board for mobile homes.

Loose-Fill or Blown-In

These types of mobile home insulation are great for spaces in odd shapes as well as obstructed parts of the mobile home. It is incredibly flexible and is often used as insulation for older mobile homes.

Spray and Injection Foam

Spray and injection foam have gained a lot of traction in recent years, but the jury’s still out on them. They are liquid in their container but foam, expand and harden once they are out. Their main advantage is that they are great for use in enclosed spaces such as walls. They can reach even the smallest spaces. However, some research has shown that other types provide much better insulation. In addition, using spray and injection foam can get quite messy.

What type of insulation should you use under a mobile home?

These different types of mobile home insulation can be made from a variety of different materials. Some of them work better than others, and some are more appropriate for certain parts of the home only. When it comes to the underbelly of a mobile home, experts suggest it is best to use closed-cell spray foam insulation. Using fiberglass and cellulose can be effective, but these materials soak up any water in the ground. This can lead to mold and even rot over time. Open-cell spray foam will react similarly and is better suited to walls as we mentioned above.

How much does it cost to change the insulation under a mobile home?

The price of your mobile home insulation will depend on many different factors, but mainly the material you choose to use and whether or not you decide to do it on your own or hire professionals. Here is a range of prices for different materials 1,000 square feet:

Open-cell spray foam: $350 to $550;
Closed-cell spray foam: $1,000 to $2,000;
Blown-in: $500;
Fiberglass batts: $640 to $1,100.

These are all prices of materials. If you decide on DIY, you can manage your mobile home insulation at quite an affordable price. However, you might not want to take your chances. This is particularly true if you have just bought a mobile home and are about to move in.

If you managed to recognize a good service when it came to your movers, you should be able to find appropriate help for the insulation job. Hopefully, you had a home inspection before closing the deal. The home inspector should have made you aware of the potential renovation expenses.

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

How do you insulate a mobile home?

Proper mobile home insulation is both budget- and environment-friendly. The US department of energy has a list of suggested measures to make your mobile home energy-efficient. Besides installing new doors and windows to help keep the air in and making general repairs, the main idea is to add insulation to the belly, walls, and roof of your mobile home. Installing insulated skirting as well as a belly wrap are also on the list. So how do you go about it?

Experts suggest always hiring professionals to do this for you as there are many variables to think of. There are plumbing and wiring to consider, as well as causing possible structural problems when dealing with walls and ceilings. Roof insulation can get particularly tricky and is too big of a project to DIY, especially if you are inexperienced. You might not just cause damage to your home, but also to yourself.

Should you insulate the home skirting as well?

As many mobile homes sit at least 36 inches off the ground, mobile home skirting protects the underside of your home. If you are en route to making your home energy-efficient, your mobile home insulation project should definitely include insulating the home skirting as well. Some sources suggest that insulating the home skirting can reduce your energy spending by as much as 25 percent. As is true with the rest of your mobile home insulation, the investment will surely pay off in the long run.

Final Tips

If you are buying a manufactured home, get an inspection to make sure they take a look at the insulation around the house. Nowadays, there are many choices for insulation depending on your home, budget, and whether you decide to hire a professional, or tackle the project yourself.

Homebuilding in manufactured housing has come a very long way in recent years. Learn more about modern mobile homes and the incredible features they offer buyers today.

Article contributed by Sophia Perry

What is the Average Cost of a Manufactured Home?

One of the great things about manufactured homes is that buyers have plenty of options when it comes to bedrooms, bathrooms, floor plans and more. So many manufactured home models are now available on the market that it’s possible to find a home with almost any combination of features that a buyer wants.

However, the endless variety of options available also means that it’s important for a buyer to know the approximate cost of the choices that they will be presented with when shopping for a manufactured home. By breaking each option down and examining how it affects the cost of the home, buyers can gain a better understanding of what they can expect to pay for a quality manufactured home.

This guide is designed to help manufactured home buyers learn about the many different factors that go into the cost of a manufactured home. From square footage to home features to important extras like taxes and utilities, these are the costs that you’ll need to be familiar with as you commence your hunt for the perfect mobile home for sale.

Factor #1: Size

Square footage is one of the biggest factors in determining the cost of a manufactured home. More square footage means more room for your family, your possessions and your life.

Manufactured homes fall into one of three size categories. Single wide manufactured homes are built and delivered as a single unit, while double wide manufactured homes are built and delivered in sections that are joined together at the home site. Multi-section manufactured homes are triple wide or quadruple wide models that add more sections and more square footage.

Although the prices of manufactured homes fluctuate just like site-built homes do, here’s the average price of a new manufactured home (plus its square footage and per-square-foot cost) in 2016:

Single Wide:
- Average Sales Price: $46,700
- Average Square Footage: 1,075
- Average Price Per Square Foot: $43.44

Double Wide/Multi-Section:
- Average Sales Price: $89,500
- Average Square Footage: 1,746
- Average Price Per Square Foot: $51.26

Our guide to mobile home sizes will help buyers understand more about what each size of manufactured homes offers. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and each family will need to consider their own space needs.

Factor #2: Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Bedrooms and bathrooms are among any home’s most important features, and they have a big impact on the cost of a manufactured home. As a general rule, homes with more bedrooms and bathrooms will have more square footage. You can expect approximately:

2 beds and 1-2 baths in a single wide manufactured home
2-3 beds and 2 baths in a double wide manufactured home
3-5 beds and 2-3 baths in a multi-section manufactured home

Many buyers want as many bedrooms and bathrooms as they can get within their price range. Unused bedrooms or flex rooms can be converted into guest rooms, home offices, home gyms or just about anything else. Many families who may plan to have more children will choose to purchase a manufactured home with an extra bedroom or two to accommodate a growing family.

Factor #3: Upgrades

Many home manufacturers offer upgrade packages on their manufactured homes. These upgrades can offer all kinds of conveniences and practical advantages for an additional fee.

Manufactured home floor plans sometimes come with the option to add an extra bedroom or bathroom, so ask your builder about whether the models you’re interested in include these options. Bedrooms and bathrooms themselves are also common areas for optional upgrades, with many models offering premium features such as walk-in closets and separate bathtubs and showers.

You’ll also want to consider what kind of appliances you want for your manufactured home. Many home builders offer upgraded appliances packages with features such as stainless steel exteriors, induction cooktops, French door refrigerators, and smart home integration. These appliances can be a big quality of life upgrade for your kitchen.

Factor #4: Porches and Garages

Many homebuyers want a garage to keep their vehicles safe and provide some extra storage space or a porch for relaxing with family and friends. However, additions to a manufactured home must be free-standing structures with their own footings, so this will usually require hiring a third-party contractor to build an additional structure. During the process of selecting a manufactured home model, be sure to ask the builder whether a model is suitable for structural additions.

The cost of adding a garage varies by model and style, but the national average cost to build a garage is $49 per square foot (depending on finishing, dimensions, foundation and other characteristics). The most popular sizes of two-car garages vary in cost between $28,200 to $42,300. Detached garages tend to be slightly more expensive, as they must be built from the ground up rather than attached to an existing structure.

Prefab garages and carports are also popular options for some homeowners. A prefab steel garage can cost as little as $4,000, but as with all garages, you should check with your community association first to ensure that you’re allowed to build one.

The cost of a mobile home porch or deck averages around $5,000 to $10,000, but it can vary widely depending on the structure of the porch. A simple DIY porch with a lean-to roof might cost only a few hundred dollars, while a full-fledged gabled porch can cost $10,000 or more.

Factor #5: Land

Your manufactured home will need a home site on which to rest, and you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing or leasing that land. If you can afford the upfront cost and land is relatively inexpensive where you live, purchasing a lot can be a good investment that saves you money in the long term, but leasing a lot is also a good option for many homebuyers.

If you want to purchase your own home site, costs will vary widely with local land values and regulations. The average cost of land in the U.S. is $3,020 per acre, but there is considerable variation among states. State and local zoning laws often establish certain areas where manufactured homes are allowed, and they may also establish a minimum lot size for a manufactured home, so be sure to familiarize yourself with these laws before buying land.

Leasing your lot is also an option, and if you’ll be placing your new home in a mobile home park, you’ll typically need to lease a lot (unless you opt for a resident-owned mobile home park). You’ll pay a monthly lot rent, which can vary widely anywhere from $400-$800 per month depending on the region. Some landlords will roll utilities into the lot rent, so make sure to ask the property manager exactly what is included in lot rent.

Factor #6: HOA Fees

Many manufactured home buyers find that there are big advantages to living in a community of manufactured homeowners. Mobile home parks are located all around the U.S. and many offer amenities such as pools, fitness centers and clubhouses, as well as a sense of community and opportunities to make new friends.

However, many mobile home parks have homeowners’ associations (HOAs) that are responsible for maintaining properties and amenities. You’ll usually pay a monthly fee to your HOA to support community maintenance and security, which is usually between $200-$300 but can be as high as $500 in some highly desirable communities. Your HOA fees may be included in lot rent, or they may be charged separately.

Factor #7: Utilities

Your manufactured home will need to be hooked up to local electric, gas, water and Internet utilities, and you’ll have to pay monthly utility bills. Some utility companies may require a deposit before they will connect your home site. If you lease your manufactured home lot, some utilities may be included in lot rent, but others may not be.

There are several steps you can take to lower the cost of utilities for your manufactured home, including purchasing an ENERGY STAR® certified home and upgrading your home’s insulation. Make sure to talk to your builder about the home’s R-value to learn about how your home is insulated and options that may be available for improving energy efficiency.

Factor #8: Taxes

Manufactured homes are taxed at the state and local level, so tax obligations vary widely. The type of taxes you pay on your home will be determined by whether your home is titled as real estate or as personal property.

Manufactured homes attached to a permanent foundation and titled as real estate are usually taxed at the same rate as site-built homes in the same tax jurisdiction. The national average property tax rate is 1.15 percent of appraised home value, but some states have significantly higher or lower rates.

If your manufactured home is titled as personal property, you will usually pay annual taxes on it to your state’s DMV, much as you would with a vehicle. Some states, such as Michigan, don’t require any annual tax for manufactured homes titled as personal property. Instead, many of these states will levy a sales tax at the time you purchase the manufactured home. If you’re buying a manufactured home in one of these states, your builder will be able to inform you about your tax obligations.

If you rent your lot, some states will allow you to deduct lot rent on your annual taxes since part of it goes to pay your landlord’s property taxes. Check with your state department of revenue or county assessor’s office to learn whether you’re eligible to do this.

Factor #9: Transportation

Your new manufactured home will need to be delivered to your home site from the factory. Typically, manufacturers include delivery costs in the price of the home, up to a distance of around 100 miles, with additional fees averaging $6 to $15 per mile after that.

However, the homebuyer may be liable for additional costs, such as the cost of obtaining a permit to move the home. Make sure to check with the home builder about what you’ll be expected to pay for, potentially including labor costs to set and install the home.

Used Manufactured Home Prices

Buying a previously owned manufactured home is also a popular choice for buyers who want to save money and move into a home as quickly as possible. Today’s durable manufactured home models maintain their value well when properly cared for, so a used manufactured home can provide some real financial advantages.

Much as with a new manufactured home, the cost of a used manufactured home is determined by several factors, including:

The original mobile home book value, including its square footage and bedrooms/bathrooms.
The current condition of the manufactured home and whether it has been maintained properly or needs any repairs.
The location of the manufactured home.
Whether or not land is included with the manufactured home.
The current state of the housing market.
The time of year when the home is sold.

For more information about used manufactured homes, see “What to Look for When Buying a Used Manufactured Home” and learn how to find a reliable used mobile home price guide. Then, start your search on MHVillage’s used manufactured home listings, America’s largest database of previously owned manufactured homes for sale.

One final thought:

To find the perfect manufactured home for your family, it’s important to have the full range of resources on home pricing, how to evaluate a home, and how to make an offer. You’ll find this critical information in our Mobile Home Buyer’s Guide, plus tons of other useful tips to make your manufactured home hunt a success.

Are FHA Loans Available for Mobile Homes?

Most homebuyers take out a mortgage when purchasing a new home. However, buying a manufactured home often means going through different financing channels than site-built homebuyers use.

You might have heard about FHA loans and how they help buyers afford to own their own home. If you’re considering your financing options for a manufactured home, you might be wondering: Can I get an FHA loan to buy my manufactured home?

The good news is: Yes, FHA loans for mobile homes are available! These loans can help families afford high-quality long-term manufactured housing. Read on to learn about the basics of FHA loans for mobile homes and when it’s time to ask a mobile home financing professional about your qualifications for an FHA loan.

What Is an FHA Loan?

An FHA loan is a mortgage loan that is backed by the U.S. Federal Housing Administration. One of the FHA’s lending partner institutions issues the mortgage, while the FHA shields the lender from risk by guaranteeing the buyer’s loan obligations. This allows the lender to offer mortgages to a wider range of buyers and provide more flexible terms.

Defining features of FHA loans include:

Lower down payments
Less stringent credit and income requirements for borrowers
A maximum loan amount determined by your county of residence

Mortgage insurance is a key component of FHA loans. The borrower pays a mortgage insurance premium to protect the lender’s financial interest in case of default. Typically, one larger mortgage insurance payment is required as part of the closing process, and the buyer also pays a monthly premium when they pay their mortgage.

Advantages of an FHA Loan for a Mobile Home

An FHA loan is a great way for mobile home buyers to find mortgages that suit their financial needs. Here are some reasons that FHA loans are a popular way to obtain manufactured home financing:

FHA loans typically require a lower down payment than traditional mortgages. If a buyer’s FICO score is above 580, the buyer can provide a down payment of just 3.5 percent of the loan amount.
For buyers with little established credit or past credit problems, an FHA loan can be the most affordable mortgage option.
FHA loans can be used to buy a manufactured home, whereas some loan products can be used only for site-built homes.
The FHA offers a streamlined refinancing program that allows FHA loans to be refinanced quickly and easily for qualified borrowers.
The FHA will allow closing costs to be financed.

Do You Qualify for an FHA Loan for a Mobile Home?

The requirements for FHA loan eligibility can vary, so ask a lending institution about their individual requirements. Some of the common standards for FHA loan eligibility include:

You must use the home as your primary residence.
The lot and lot lease agreement must meet FHA standards.
The manufactured home must be compliant with the federal HUD code.
The property must be appraised by an FHA-approved professional appraiser.
The manufactured home you’re financing must be affixed to a permanent foundation and titled as real estate.
You must show proof of consistent income, have at least two existing lines of credit and be within the FHA’s requirements for debt-to-income ratio.

Note that according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, FHA loans are typically best suited for borrowers with lower credit and less ability to make a down payment. Borrowers with better credit who can afford a 10 to 15 percent down payment may pay less in the long run by using conventional financing,

Getting Started with an FHA Loan

The first step to getting an FHA loan is speaking with an FHA lender in your area and asking to get pre-approved. During this process, the lender will review your qualifications and determine how much you may be eligible to borrow. Pre-approval isn’t required, but it’s helpful.

Next, you’ll fill out Form 1003, the Uniform Residential Loan Application, and submit it to the FHA. If the FHA approves your application, the lender will order an appraisal of the property you want to buy. If the property is compliant, the lender will begin the underwriting process.

During underwriting, you’ll have to provide more detailed financial information to the lender’s underwriters. Once you’re approved, the closing process can begin. (Don’t forget to ask your lender if you can finance your closing costs.)

Looking for More Financing Tips?

MHVillage is a one-stop-shop for the latest information on manufactured home financing. Read our blog on how to get a loan for a mobile home to find more useful financing tips, or explore the different mobile home financing companies in the market.

Mobile Home Leveling FAQs: What Homeowners Need to Know

Even though mobile homes are generally easier to maintain compared to traditional homes, they still require regular maintenance. No one likes to do it, but the only way to have a safe home is to perform routine maintenance on a regular basis. One of the essential maintenance chores is having your mobile home leveled. Although mobile homes are leveled during installation, they need some adjustment from time to time. What’s great about mobile home leveling is that you can do most things by yourself with just a few tools.

Here are some of the most important things that every mobile home owner should know about mobile home leveling.

What is Mobile Home Leveling?

Leveling is one of the most important stages of mobile home construction. It takes place after the home has been delivered to its site and placed onto the prefabricated foundation. Mobile home leveling ensures that the home’s weight is distributed evenly and that the floors are level across the entire building.

How often should you check the level of your mobile home?

Many mobile home owners aren’t aware that they should check their home leveling regularly. According to professional installers, the first check should be performed 90 days after installation. Regular checks should take place once a year, ideally at the beginning of summer. In addition, it is important to check the level of your home after floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, windstorms, and other extreme weather conditions.

What situations cause leveling to be necessary?

As your house settles into the ground, some problems may start to occur – problems that will become much worse unless you address them on time. New homes and those that have been moved recently are the ones that need leveling the most.

There are numerous reasons why mobile homes become unlevel. For example, underground roots may cause the soil to move. Other environmental factors, such as flooding or earthquakes, can also cause trouble.

These are some of the most common signs that mobile home leveling is necessary:

The house looks slightly tilted when observed from the outside;
Doors and windows don’t fit properly or won’t stay shut;
Cabinet and closet doors are hard to open and close;
The skirting looks bent;
Awnings are bent or difficult to use;
There are cracks in the ceilings, walls or floors.

How much weight will a mobile home floor hold?

Your mobile home floor should be able to hold the weight of an average household item. In case there is water damage, however, any weight could break through the floor boards. Water damage usually occurs under doors, windows, and around bathroom fixtures. Therefore, you should carefully examine your floor boards before placing heavy furnishings on them. If there is a problem with the floor, take your furniture to a storage unit and stack your storage the right way to keep your belongings safe until the problem is fixed.

How to check the level of your mobile home

You can easily check whether your mobile home is level or not. You don’t need professionals for this task but you should not go underneath your home by yourself. In case there is an emergency, you should have someone by your side.

First, disassemble and detach the skirting, then loosen the tie-down straps. To find the current level of your mobile home, place a level in the center of the beam and watch the bubble to check how level it is. Then, check the bubble again after moving the level to the nearest support pier. Keep moving the level toward the end of the main support beam and checking the bubble. Then, take the level back to the center and check the other side of your home. Remember to wear proper work gloves and eyewear!

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

How to level the home yourself

In case some part of your home is not even, it needs to be adjusted. Mobile home leveling is not terribly complicated, but it is very physical, as you’ll be crawling underneath the home. The most important tools to have are a water level and hydraulic bottle jacks.

To raise your mobile home to a level position, you will need the proper jack. Remember to place a piece of wood under the jack to make it more stable. Start jacking up the house and stop once the bubble is centered.
There should be some space between the lower beam and its support. That space should be filled in order for the beam to stay raised. You can use a piece of wood or a shim to support the beam. Hammer it into place, then lower the jack. When the level shows that part of the home is even, your job is done.
After you finish leveling your mobile home, check the whole beam once again to be sure the entire home is even.
Make sure no water lines were damaged or dislodged while you were leveling.
Finally, adjust the tie-downs to ensure they are secure before putting the skirting back.

Hiring professionals to level your mobile home

As mentioned, in most cases, you can level your mobile home by yourself – provided that you have the right tools, of course. However, if your mobile home is extremely unlevel or the piers are leaning, it is advisable to hire professionals.

You can contact the dealership that sold you the mobile home and ask them for help. They usually have their own installers or they work with an outside company. Additionally, you can search the internet and ask other mobile home owners for recommendations.

Make sure the company you hire for this job is licensed and insured. Also, remember to ask questions about their experience and qualifications. They should be able to give you the contact information of their previous clients, too.

How much does leveling a mobile home cost?

First of all, you should always get a quote or a written estimate of the cost beforehand. The cost of mobile home leveling depends on several factors, including the location of the home. In large metro areas, having a single wide re-leveled costs around $500. Double wides cost double. In less urban areas, the price is lower, closer to $250-300.

Article written by Sophia Perry

Louisiana Woman’s Manufactured Home Endures Hurricane Laura

manufactured home endures hurricane laura downed tree — Susan Rice's 2007 Deer Valley Home in Lake Charles, La., stands with a few disrupted roof shingles and a bit of torn skirting after Hurricane Laura.

Susan Rice returned from her daughter’s home in Baton Rouge, a mind-numbing two-hour car ride through the devastation left behind by Hurricane Laura. She drove with “a pit in the stomach” feeling she likely lost her home — Again.

“I was on I-10, and the minute you get off you start seeing all of the destruction,” Rice said. “ You get a pit in the stomach. The mom and pop little businesses, that’s their income. Now they have none.

“I was broken-hearted to know that so many people were going to lose their homes,” she said. “I prayed over my house all night long. That’s probably what saved it, the Lord heard my prayers.”

Hurricane Laura made landfall overnight on Aug. 27, ripping through East Texas and western to central Louisiana with winds as high as 150 miles per hour. The storm was the strongest to hit the area in about a century, and was one of the strongest ever storms to make U.S. landfall, according to the National Weather Service.

The storm killed at least 16 people, most of them in Louisiana, officials said.

Upon leaving Louisiana, Hurricane Laura moved across Arkansas, downgraded to a tropical depression headed toward the lower Ohio Valley.

One Manufactured Home in Moss Bluff

“When I left my house before the storm, I felt like I was going to lose my home again,” Rice said. “That’s devastating, it just crushes you. You know you may come back to nothing.”

In September of 2005, Rice’s former home on that same spot along Ryans Road in an area known as Moss Bluff was destroyed by Hurricane Rita. The home she bought in 2007 to replace her “very old” site-built home was a new three-bedroom, two-bath manufactured home from Deer Valley.

“I upgraded on the cabinets and the siding, which is Hardie Plank. It’s very, very sturdy,” Rice said. “Knowing that it is built to withstand a category 3, that did give me just a bit of hope. And it went through a category 4, so it’s certainly sturdy.

“I am blessed,” she said. “It really is a miracle.”

Devastation in Louisiana

Rice’s experience evacuating Lake Charles and returning to her home amid the destruction was documented briefly among the accounts of many other Louisianans in a New York Times story on Hurricane Laura.

She said her friend’s aunt lost her home in the storm, and so too did her grandaughter’s grandparents from the other side of the family. She said only one of the three routes into her neighborhood were passable when she returned.

“There are trees all over the road and fallen on people’s homes. It’s so sad. I’m so sad for the people who’ve lost their homes, and you’re also happy because you still have yours,” she said. “I had one little leak and my daughter is helping me out. She is sending a maintenance guy with a generator, and a roofer is coming to do an inspection next week. I really lucked out.”

If she ever had to buy a new home again, Rice said, she’d return to R&R Mobile Homes in DeRidder, La., and get another new Deer Valley.

Durable Homes from Deer Valley

Deer Valley builds manufactured and modular homes from its facility in Guin, Ala., and sells the homes through a 15-state retail network.

Deer Valley Homes General Manager Chet Murphree said he is pleased but not surprised the company’s homes, even ones as old as the Rice home, are able to stand up to the largest storms.

“I received another homeowner testimony of how his family’ home stood fast against Laura,” Murphree said. “We are known for the heaviest built standard manufactured homes In the southeast with fastening systems that exceed the stability of stick-built homes. The installation is paramount as well.

“The Rice home, I expect was set to Wind Zone 3 specifications that ensure they withstand continual high-speed winds,” he said. “I also agree with Mrs. Rice that our sovereign creator always has a hand. God Bless Mrs. Rice and her family.”

Mobile Home Colors: Tips for Selecting Interior and Exterior Paints

The color of your home plays a big role in setting the tone–inside and out. Choosing the right paint will help create a space that you enjoy living in. So, when selecting mobile home colors, it’s important to keep a few basic principles in mind.

If you’re considering painting your manufactured home, read these tips first. They’ll help you and your family find a color combination that you love and select high-quality paints that will keep a crisp look.

Before the Paint Store

Before you walk into the paint or hardware store, take some time to establish what you’re looking for. First, think about whether you want to paint the inside of your manufactured home, the outside or both. This will determine the type of paint you need to buy and how much.

Remember that there are many parts of your home that can be painted besides the walls. For exteriors, this might include your porch, front and back door, railings and shutters. For interiors, consider your baseboards, molding, doors, door jambs, window panes and ceilings.

Many paint companies now offer free online paint visualizer apps. These are great for getting an idea of how certain colors will look in your home, and they’ll allow you to go to the paint store with a better idea of what you want.

What Kind of Paint Do You Need?

You’ll also need to ensure that you’re buying the paint products you need for successful painting. First, check to see if your home manufacturer recommends any specific brands or types of paint. These will usually give you the best results.

Whether you’re painting the interior or exterior walls, you want paint and primer products that are designed for your wall materials. Vinyl siding, metal siding, and wood siding all require different types of exterior paint, and the vinyl-on-gypsum board that many manufactured homes use for interior walls requires high-quality paint products.

You’ll almost always want to buy primer along with your paint. Primer helps the paint stick to your walls, and you’ll want to put on at least one coat (usually two) before painting any wall.

When in doubt, work with the professionals at your paint or hardware store to find the best paint for your home’s needs.

Choosing Exterior Mobile Home Colors

The exterior of your manufactured home will determine the first impression it creates, so most people want something elegant and welcoming. Here are some key tips for choosing exterior colors:

Some people choose bright mobile home colors such as red or purple for their exterior paints to give their homes a distinctive and vibrant appearance. Note that if you live in a mobile home park, your community may restrict the allowed color for exterior paints.
Pure white isn’t usually a good choice for an exterior color, as it quickly becomes labor-intensive to maintain.
Cool colors such as off-white, beige and light blue can help keep your home cool in hot weather. These colors can also create a lovely look when combined with colorful landscaping.
Painting your door, shutters, or porch railing is a classic trick for adding just the right amount of pop. Adding a splash of color in one of these areas will provide contrast and visual interest without appearing overly bold or busy.

Choosing Interior Mobile Home Colors

Think first about whether you’d rather have a single consistent color scheme or paint different rooms in different colors. A single scheme doesn’t have to be boring. There’s all kinds of ways to add accents and offsets while keeping colors consistent. Painting rooms in different colors, however, can give your home a sense of vibrancy and excitement.
Cool colors such as white and sky blue can provide an easy way to make your space seem larger and airier. Warm colors such as brown and burnt orange, on the other hand, create an appealing coziness. Some people like to use both, although it can take some careful analysis to make sure that they don’t clash.
Think about the mental states that you associate with different colors. Soft, soothing colors such as blue are often found in bedrooms, while more energetic colors like orange are typically considered kitchen or living room colors.
If you have kids, consider asking them if they want to choose a color for their bedrooms. Choosing how to paint their room can help kids feel like they have a personal space that’s all their own.

Want to learn more about maintaining, customizing, and improving your manufactured home? You’ll find it all on the MHVillage blog, from the basics of curb appeal to our complete guide for mobile home decorating.

4 Bedroom Mobile Homes: Spacious and Affordable

When most people think of four-bedroom homes, adjectives like large, spacious, luxurious, and grand come to mind. Four-bedroom homes are often all of these things, but they’ve also traditionally been associated with another word: expensive. The typical price to build a new 2,000 square foot site-built home—a common size for a four-bedroom—ranges from $200,000 to $400,000 depending on location.

However, today’s four-bedroom manufactured homes are changing the game in more ways than one. With numerous affordable and full-featured four-bedroom manufactured homes available on the market, the dream of a four-bedroom home is now within reach for more buyers than ever before.

Looking for four-bedroom mobile homes in your area? Select ‘4 bedrooms’ on the dropdown menu when searching for mobile homes for sale on MHVillage.

In this article, we’ll look at five of the most popular four-bedroom manufactured homes available on MHVillage. These homes provide the living space and reliable build quality that families need at an affordable price.

1. Champion Homes Memphis TE3276T

2,281 Square Feet

Champion Homes is among today’s top builders of manufactured homes, and the Memphis is a perfect example of why. A modern combination of kitchen, dining, and living room areas provides a flowing family space that fosters togetherness, and tray ceilings give the space a roomy feel.

The Memphis’s living spaces are designed for graceful comfort, and the master suite includes a bathroom with soaker tub. Champion Homes even offers the option to add a fifth bedroom and third bathroom for families who need even more space.

2. Fortune Home Gold Star 2880 201

2,026 Square Feet

The classic ranch house never goes out of style, and the Fortune Homes Gold Star brings a spacious take to this perennially popular design. An ample living room leads into an eat-in kitchen, and pleasant architectural accents like columns provide visual flair.

The Gold Star’s kitchen includes an island countertop and beautiful natural finish cabinetry. Those who work from home will love the optional built-in desk in the kitchen.

3. Homes of Merit Willow Manor W0764B2-0

2,305 Square Feet

The Willow Manor radiates classic Southern charm, but combines its beloved traditional elements with an expansive and modern design. This home features a separate living room and family room with a built-in fireplace, and its eat-in kitchen is the stuff of dreams.

The feeling of comfort and luxury continues in the Willow Manor’s bedrooms and bathrooms, which feature gorgeous countertops and an oversized soaker tub. It’s the perfect home to bring Southern hospitality into the 21st century.

4. Champion Homes Commonwealth 211

2,305 Square Feet

In the Commonwealth 211, cozy and roomy feel right at home together. The kitchen and dining room flow right into the living area to create an enjoyable space that will be full of good smells around dinnertime. A classic farmhouse/barn decor style brings a touch of Americana to this open-plan design.

And if you want closet space, the Commonwealth will make you jump for joy. The master bedroom includes a truly impressive closet, with an optional built-in mirror and cubby.

5. Champion Homes American Freedom 3276R

2,312 Square Feet

The American Freedom lives up to its name with abundant space for work, play and life. The kitchen is one of the stars of the show here, with an island countertop, up-to-date appliances and a chic vibe.

The American Freedom’s four bedrooms are generously sized, and the master suite includes pleasing touches like a sliding barn door leading to the bathroom. The bathroom itself, meanwhile, features a freestanding tub and a luxurious walk-in shower.

6. Homes of Merit Pine Manor 0764D

2,305 Square Feet
Available in: Florida

This airy four-bedroom design from Homes of Merit is as cheerful as it is spacious. The Pine Manor’s modern eat-in kitchen includes aesthetic touches like shiplap wainscoting for a rustic look, and a tile backsplash and island countertop that make this a classy and beautiful kitchen.

The Pine Manor’s bathrooms and bedrooms also make everyday home spaces into places of serenity and comfort. The bathroom is particularly eye-catching, with its free-standing tub and built-in privacy water closet.

Find the Perfect 4 Bedroom Mobile Home

It’s never been easier to afford a four-bedroom home for your family. For more manufactured homes that are large and in charge, check out our guide to quadruple wide mobile homes. Or, to find your perfect four-bedroom manufactured home, view our mobile homes for sale or mobile home floor plans and sort by bedrooms.

FAQs: Solar Panels for Mobile Homes

solar panels for mobile homes and manufactured homes

An eco-friendly, energy-efficient home is an appealing option for many homeowners today. ENERGY STAR® Certified manufactured homes are one great option for a home that’s easier on the planet and saves money on utilities. But for those who want to take things a step further, solar panels can be a great investment for powering your manufactured home sustainably.

In this article, we’ll answer several frequently asked questions about solar panels for mobile homes. You’ll find key information here about the cost of solar panels, solar panel installation and much more.

Can you install rooftop solar panels on a manufactured home?

Not usually. PV panels are heavy and have specific structural requirements. In addition, rooftop solar panels for mobile homes may not be legal in every jurisdiction, and every mobile home park.

What kinds of solar panels are appropriate for a manufactured home?

Although standard rooftop PV panels usually can’t be installed on a manufactured home, a homeowner does have some options, such as:

In some cases, another structure such as a detached garage or enclosed patio may be suitable for a rooftop PV array. Always consult both the manufacturer of the structure and the PV manufacturer first to learn if your structure is a good choice for solar panel installation.
If the lot is sufficiently large, homeowners can purchase a ground-mounted photovoltaic system, in which the PV panels are mounted in the yard. (Note that you’ll need a substantial amount of space for this option, as even a relatively small system can occupy several hundred square feet.) For many manufactured homeowners, this is the easiest and most cost-effective solar panel option.
Solar roof shingles are miniature solar PV cells the size of a typical roof shingle, and they can be a great alternative to traditional roof-mounted PV panels. Solar shingles have recently become substantially more affordable (particularly with solar tax credits), and they could save some homeowners as much as 40 to 60 percent on their electric bills.
Solar-powered water heaters are another popular option that use stored energy from the sun’s heat to provide cost-effective hot water on demand.

For more information on selecting a solar system and whether solar is right for you, see the FTC’s guide to solar power for your home.

How much does it cost to outfit a manufactured home with solar panels?

The exact cost of installing solar panels on a manufactured home lot will vary widely according to the size and nature of the installation. Remember that solar capacity is a long-term investment, and larger solar panel arrays provide homeowners with the potential to capture greater savings when installed correctly.

You can calculate the cost of a mobile home solar panel system by using one of the many solar panel cost calculators available online (although you should treat the amount as an estimate until you get an actual quote). Solar panels for mobile homes must be installed by trained professionals, so remember that you’ll also need to pay installation costs.

Note that several tax credits are available for homeowners who install solar panels on their homes, so the final adjusted cost of these systems will almost always be lower. The main tax credit for solar panel owners is a federal credit called the investment tax credit for solar power, but your state government may also offer additional tax credits.

How does a solar-powered water heater work?

Some people reduce their heating bills by using solar-powered water heaters. A solar-powered water heater transfers the sun’s heat energy to a water heater tank, which provides an excellent medium for storing heat. Solar water heaters come in several varieties that can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 including installation, and they can be a good option for manufactured home owners who aren’t ready to invest in full-scale solar yet.

What is community solar?

Community solar power is an alternative way of powering your home through solar power without installing panels on your property. Investors build community solar panel farms on which homeowners can purchase access to a panel. A homeowner then receives a credit on their electric bill for the amount of power produced by the purchased panel, and the solar company bills the homeowner (ideally at a lower rate) for the portion generated by the solar panel. Community solar is an increasingly popular option for homeowners who don’t have the option of installing solar panels.

mobile home delivery process — Photo courtesy of UMH Properties.

Are there ways to decrease energy bills other than solar panels?

Yes! First, as previously mentioned, many outstanding ENERGY STAR® Certified manufactured homes are available that are specially designed to provide energy efficiency. In addition, homeowners can improve their manufactured home’s energy efficiency by applying some simple tips from the experts at MHVillage. Whether it’s solar power or energy efficiency hacks, there’s almost always a way to reduce your manufactured home’s carbon footprint and save money at the same time.

Buying a Single Wide Mobile Home

Purchasing a new home is an important milestone in anyone’s life. During these times, we understand that now more than ever, your budget matters. If you have always aspired to own your own home and would like to do so without breaking the bank, buying a single wide mobile home may be a fitting solution.

Single wide mobile homes are strong, cost-effective options that can fast track your path to homeownership. If you are looking to explore this particular type of housing as a first-time buyer, you likely have a few questions.

To get you started with some initial research, here is a brief overview of all things single wide homes.

Single Wide Basics

Today’s single wide homes are 12 to 18 feet long, 50 to 80 feet wide, and offer around 720 to 1,400 square feet of living space. These residences are generally known for their compactness, but in reality, they are often larger than most apartments.

Today’s single wides are made with such care and expertise that it has become increasingly difficult to tell the difference between a modern single wide and a smaller traditional-style home. These small but spacious dwellings have contemporary features, energy-efficient fixtures/appliances, and overall new flow and design. Moreover, these particular types of mobile homes are easy to customize or upgrade.

When considering transportation and other particulars, it’s beneficial to understand all that goes into shipping a brand new single wide mobile home from the factory to your intended homesite or lot in mobile home community. With single sections, delivery and installation are basically seamless. Due to there size, fewer resources are required to get your new home up and running. Similarly, setup typically requires less manpower and materials than other larger options will (double, triple wides).

Why Buy a Single Wide?

So, we’ve touched on a few benefits, but there are several other advantages to highlight:

Cost

For starters, one of the clear advantages of that single wides have over other types of housing is they are the less expensive option. When compared to double wide homes or multi-section homes, many buyers prefer single wides because of their affordable pricing. Even an affordable luxury townhouse, apartment, or condo is likely to cost you more than a single wide. If you are looking to cut back on your overall monthly expenses, these homes are an excellent choice.

Space

Perhaps the most compelling advantage that single wides offer is space. More specifically, the amount of space that they provide for the cost. A 1200 square foot single wide offers about as much room as a traditional, 2 bed, 2 bath home. Many homeowners who live in single-section homes often pleasantly surprised by how much extra room they have. The additional space offers flexibility with how you decorate your home interior and store your belongings.

When you consider the price per square footage, single wides are a strong option for getting the most value for your money.

Variety

Single wides come in a large variety of layouts and floor plans. While they don’t offer quite as robust of a selection as double wides, there are plenty of options available for buyers of all types. As mentioned earlier, modern single wides are easily customizable and can accommodate many modifications, upgrades, or additions after the purchase.

Privacy

In addition to cost and space, single wides also offer privacy. One of the biggest reasons why many renters leave the apartment lifestyle is the desire to have their very own space. When you own a single wide you can enjoy freedom away from sharing walls with neighbors and living in close quarters.

Finding the Perfect Single Wide

Today, tracking down the single wide of your dreams is easy. More and more buyers are finding their best options online, which makes home shopping simple and convenient. On MHVillage, you can find thousands of single wide mobile homes for sale, with a search-friendly database that allows you to filter home listings by location, size, price, specific features, and much more.

You can also find great single wide homes by searching through our extensive selection of mobile home parks. You can get all the info on several mobile homes at once, contact a representative, ask questions, and take in-depth virtual tours.

With that said, while you are browsing online for your future home, there are a few things you should consider:

Determine if a new or used single wide is best for your needs. If you’re looking to buy new, you’ll want to browse our selection of single wide mobile home floor plans to determine what type of layout is best suited for your lifestyle.
Go into the buying process with a solid understanding of your financial situation and what you’re able to afford.
Be sure to do your due diligence when browsing homes. You may find several options enticing early on, but it’s important to spend time comparing different options in order to find the right single wide home that checks all of your boxes.

Lastly, make sure to understand what type of mobile home financing options are available to you ahead of time.

Financing a Single Wide Mobile Home

You have a handful of options when it comes to financing mobile homes.

Common mobile home financing includes personal loans, traditional mortgages (FHA, Conventional), chattel mortgages, or government loans (VA or USDA Rural Development loans).

If you are buying a single wide through a mobile home community or dealer, it’s common for them to recommend options as well.

As is the case with financing any home, there are minimum mortgage requirements for each loan program. Thus, it is vital that you determine which loan scenario works best for you. For example, many of the above-mentioned loan types have minimum credit conditions, down payments, and land requirements. There are also specifications to consider with each mobile or manufactured home loan, such as the size of your home, whether it needs a permanent foundation, etc.

The breadth of options you will have access to for your future single wide home ultimately comes down to your financial situation and what loans you can qualify for.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, buying a single wide mobile home is a big decision, especially if this is your first time purchasing a home. Currently, there is a wealth of affordable housing options across the country, and financing is, for the most part, readily available. As a result, there is no time like the present to begin your search.

MHVillage has the largest selection of manufactured and mobile homes for sale in the nation. Just visit our advanced search page to start browsing our selection of home listings. And for more buying tips, be sure to check our new mobile home buyers guide.

How to Sell a Mobile Home in Texas

Mobile Home Living — Photo courtesy of Sun Communities.

The Texas housing market is red-hot and shows no signs of slowing down. In an active market with high home prices, many buyers will be looking for a great home at a more affordable price, which is great news for anyone selling a mobile home in Texas.

To get the best price for your manufactured home, it’s important to have the right tools and knowledge at your disposal. In this quick guide, we’ll talk about the basics of how to sell a mobile home in Texas and how MHVillage’s tools for mobile home sellers can help make your sale a success.

Who’s Selling Your Home?

The first decision that most manufactured home sellers in Texas must make is whether to sell their home themselves (known as “for sale by owner,” or FSBO) or sell it through a mobile home real estate agent.

If you live in a manufactured home community, the community’s sales department will almost always handle the sale for you. If that’s the case, you’ll work with park sales representatives to make sure your home is ready to sell, coordinate showing times and find potential buyers.

Sellers who don’t live in a manufactured home community must decide whether to sell by owner or use a Texas real estate agent. A real estate agent will charge commission, but will do the work of connecting with buyers, showing the home and creating marketing materials.

Selling FSBO, meanwhile, can be a big potential cost-saver since you’ll be skipping commission fees for an agent, but the process involves more legwork for the seller. Make sure to avoid the many common for sale by owner mistakes such as negotiating too hard and going in without an inspection.

Appraisal and Inspection

A professional manufactured home appraisal and inspection are key steps in the process of selling a manufactured home. Anyone interested in selling a manufactured home in Texas should strongly consider having an appraisal and inspection.

Professional appraisers are trained to evaluate the key factors that determine a home’s value, including model, age and condition. Professional inspectors, meanwhile, give buyers confidence and help spot critical repairs that the seller may need to address.

A great first step is finding the book value of your manufactured home. That’s why MHVillage offers a free Datacomp book value for every manufactured home listed on our site. However, to truly ensure that your manufactured home is ready to sell and to establish a firm value, it’s a good idea to have a professional appraisal and inspection.

Marketing Your Mobile Home

Finding the right buyer for your manufactured home in Texas is easier when you advertise your home and know how to present it attractively–whether that’s through curb appeal or savvy marketing.

Curb appeal is a big part of successfully presenting your home and, fortunately, there are some easy techniques to boost manufactured home curb appeal. A new coat of paint can go a long way, as can replacing your manufactured home’s siding and doing some basic yard work.

MHVillage also gives manufactured home sellers a listing that’s packed with opportunities for marketing. See our guides to taking pictures of your manufactured home and writing a better home description for tips on practices that can help optimize your listing.

Texas Mobile Home Paperwork

In Texas, transactions involving manufactured homes are regulated and recorded by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). The TDHCA sets standards for the sale and installation of manufactured homes.

The most important document for selling a mobile home in Texas is called the Statement of Ownership and Location, or SOL. These documents record all of the following:

Sale, transfer and current ownership of a manufactured home
Whether a home is titled as personal or real property
The home’s physical location
Outstanding liens

A revised SOL must be submitted to the TDHCA at least 60 days before the sale date. The full SOL can be tricky to fill out, so make sure to read the TDHCA’s SOL application instructions.

The seller must also provide the buyer with a written warranty and disclosure statement that describes the home’s physical condition and certifies its habitability. Other documents may also be required, so check with your local government to learn the specific requirements for your municipality.

If you’re wondering how to sell a mobile home in Texas, MHVillage provides the easiest and fastest way to do it, thanks to our easy-to-use interface and user base of over 25 million unique visitors annually. For more tips on how to sell a mobile home in Texas, be sure to look at our Mobile Home Seller’s Guide. It’s packed with useful resources for home sellers.