What’s New in the World of Mobile and Manufactured Home News?
MHVillage has been and continues to be the first place to go when you are looking buy or sell a manufactured home. Over the years we continue to try and top ourselves adding additional advertisement options, and resources for customers. Lately our focus has been providing you up and coming mobile and manufactured home news!
Our current Mobile and Manufactured Home News Resources
This year we launched an industry-only magazine, The MHInsider, offering resources and connections for professionals in our industry.
We also redesigned the MHVillager and the MHInsider blogs! We are happy to say that we have continued to grow in traffic, responses and contributors month over month.
What sort of Mobile and Manufactured Home News would YOU like to read about?
We believe it’s important to listen and hear your customers, so we can better serve you and your needs. This way we can continue to be your “go to” place for Mobile and Manufactured home news!
That being said we are always looking for more suggestions from YOU for articles and topics.
You can send us your thoughts by commenting on this article, sending us suggestions on our social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter) or you can email directly!
Replacing Your Mobile Home Windows – Here’s What You Need to Know
The need for mobile home replacement windows is the same as any other residential dwelling, typically on behalf of broken glass, disrupted window seals, or rotting wood. On the other hand, other reasons for a replacement could be to make your windows more energy efficient or to give them an enhanced look. The good news for manufactured homeowners, you aren’t faced with an overwhelming number of options that are often found with other residential structures.
With that said, here are some ‘need-to-knows’ for replacing your windows.
How to Measure Mobile Home Windows for a Replacement
Measuring a mobile home window to be replaced requires both vertical and horizontal measurements to be taken three times. Measure the left, center and right side of the window for vertical dimensions. Measure the top, center and bottom of the window for horizontal dimensions. From the measurements taken, order your new window to fit the smallest of each measurement.
Measure the windows from side jam to side jam (not the window itself) for horizontal dimension and from the head jam (top of the window frame) to the sill of the window for vertical dimensions.
This same measurement will apply to any type of replacement window you desire. In some cases, window trim may need to be removed for best results. And always move the sash out of the way while measuring.
Window measurements are represented with width dimensions first and height dimensions second, like 14-1/4″ x 35-3/4″.
Replacement Windows Also Are Called Pocket Windows
If the existing window to be replaced is in an un-compromised window jamb that remains square, the easiest and most cost-effective solution is to buy a replacement or “pocket window”.
This allows for the window to be slipped into the existing jamb, and screwed into place. If the frame or jamb is rotting, the entire window must be stripped down to the studs and the opening prepped for a new window.
Tools Used to Replace a Mobile Home Window
Regardless of whether the work will be done by a DIY-er or a trained professional, the same list of tools will be essential:
Safety glasses
Small pry bar
Tape measure
Level
Caulk gun
Hammer
Power drill/driver
Screwdriver
Putty knife
Utility knife
Waterproof shims
When making the decision to do the work yourself, consider that each window may take several hours to replace even if a pocket window is used. Consider the time investment versus paying a competitive professional And know that your frustration level sides with your wallet even if you’re wallet disagrees with your budget.
Vinyl Replacement Windows for Mobile Homes
Vinyl, as in most other residential settings, is the preferred choice in the U.S. market for a replacement window. More than half of the residential windows purchased are made with vinyl. Vinyl replacement windows create a more reliable seal than the aluminum counterpart. They come in a variety of styles, and often are little more expensive per unit.
Experts will tell you to look at a cross-cut section of vinyl windows you’re considering. This way you can see thickness of the vinyl, which will have an impact on performance. For a more rigid, airtight and durable window, opt for the 3 ¼” thickness.
As a reference point, Clayton Homes, the largest builder of factory homes in the market, about 90 percent of the time uses insulated vinyl, all double pane, single-hung, tilt-in sash windows.
The double-pane reduces energy loss and eliminates the need for storm windows. Single-hung windows also have much lower emissivity than double-hung, and the tilt-in sash is easy to remove from the frame for cleaning or in case of emergency.
In terms of style and look, vinyl windows require no paint and will keep a consistent look over time. The color won’t fade, because it’s solid in tone all the way through the vinyl material.
Aluminum Mobile Home Windows
Aluminum mobile home windows are less energy-efficient and won’t last as long, most likely, but they can be easier on the budget, especially if there are a large number of windows to replace. It’s not always the best option, but aluminum could be the best option for you depending on timing.
While aluminum is less energy efficient than vinyl products, it’s efficiency is much better than it was during the 1970s and ’80s, primarily because the product has become better at keeping cool air inside during warm months. However, aluminum still has difficulty doing the opposite, keeping warm air in during cold months. When cold air infiltrates the aluminum window it carries through the metal and can even frost the inside of the jamb. So, if considering aluminum windows, consider your climate.
Aluminum, alas, is quite good at sound dampening, so that’s a perk. Also, aluminum is a strong but light material, which aids in installation. And it can be bent a bit, or molded into position for older window openings that may have been compromised. If a dimension that will take a replacement mobile home window is more than ¼” out of square, aluminum could solve the problem. That is, if the dimensions aren’t so odd that re-framing becomes necessary.
Fiberglass Mobile Home Windows
Fiberglass is more durable than both vinyl and aluminum. The material retains rigidity better than other products, and can be painted. With no seam at the corners, as with vinyl windows, a painted fiberglass product is more likely to pass for the traditional wood frame window. It has a great amount of resistance to weathering, which means its energy efficiency will remain intact.
While there are some obvious perks to fiberglass mobile home windows, they do cost more than the competitors and can be more difficult to install as well.
Mobile Home Double Pane Windows
Double pane windows for a mobile or manufactured home can be a big upgrade in energy efficiency for a home, and also will eliminate the potential need for storm windows. The second pane, and the gas filled seal between the panes, can reduce emissivity by about 50 percent. The second pane also assists with sound dampening, so you’re less likely to hear street noise and your neighbors are less likely to hear you shouting at the ball game on TV. You’re welcome.
The other important aspect of double pane windows is what you don’t get. There typically is no reduction in clarity and visibility, so all the views that you enjoy today you will enjoy tomorrow, in greater comfort.
Mobile Home Storm Windows
Storm windows in, storm windows out. It’s all a matter of keeping the weather at bay, but going into deep and dark storage places to find and clean off old storm windows can become a cumbersome task. And, with time, storm windows tend to deteriorate. They become less effective, and less visually appealing.
When purchasing mobile replacement windows, ask yourself the double-pane questions. Do I want to put old storm windows on my newly installed windows. Do I want to buy new storm windows with my new replacement windows?
The obvious answer is to purchase double pane windows and make storm windows a thing of the past.
Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows
More so than double pane windows, energy efficient windows use added technologies to reduce emissivity. Some of these windows are called low-e windows, the “e” standing for emissivity. An application of invisible mineral coatings serve the purpose of hardening and reducing conductivity of the glass. The coatings reduce UV rays, so it take less energy to heat a home, and also protect fabric and color interiors from harmful rays.
How Much Does a Mobile Home Replacement Window Cost?
An individual window for a manufactured home can cost as little as $54 retail to about $300 per unit, depending on what features are of interest. Unit saving can be achieved by buying in bulk if more than one window is being replaced.
Used Mobile Home Windows
Alternatively, ebay and Craigslist can be viable options if you’re on a budget and want to buy a used replacement window. Chances are there is a good resale store in your area too. However, it’s all about the dimensions of your opening and the availability of a used replacement that will fit. But if cost is your concern, patience is a must. You have to find the right fit. And forgiveness for blemishes and stubborn operability will be important too.
Bella Core Vertical Surfaces Provide Ease of Use, Durability, Cost and Look Customers Want
There is a new solution in the marketplace for mobile home bathroom walls, and it involves grout-free vertical surfaces for easy installation and maintenance, as well as a natural look.
Bella Core vertical surfaces come in a cost-efficient poly (PVC) representation of stone, and in natural thin-stone as well.
Anthony Tesvich is in outside sales with Bella Core. He said the poly product is made for manufactured homes even though it has applications in other sectors and industries as well.
“If the corner of the wall is not perfect or the wall is not flat, there usually is a problem with what’s traditionally been done in the market,” Tesvich said. “Because of the way this system is built for the industry, the Bella Core poly surfacing provides the play needed to fit the space and look the way you want it.”
Schematic of a Bella Core Install
Construction of the Bella Core Grout-Free Vertical Surfaces
I-beam construction of the panels provides a rigidity for a shower wall that stays. And the panels that intermesh rather than abut each other create a solid construction that will endure heavy use.
Tesvich said he has been touring manufactured housing factories and coaching retailers and their customers on the merits of the grout-free vertical surfaces, both in poly and natural thin-stone.
He said the reception in the market has been a warm one. This is because professional installers and DIY weekenders alike have experienced the frustration of working with tile and grout systems, which are difficult to install, or the cheaper alternative which damages easily and tends to slump. The Bella Core products create a middle ground for cost and quality that customers appreciate.
“We’re going to go show them the best thing they’ve never seen, and the reception is phenomenal,” Tesvich said. “This is what people are looking for to finish their bathrooms.
“We are looking to bring manufacturers into this new era of bathroom finish and appeal,” he said. “There is a style and design to a bathroom that’s finished this way that really raises the value of the entire home.”
Bella Core Was Made for Manufactured Housing
An installer works with Bella Core Grout-Free Vertical Surfaces
The Bella Core Poly system in particular works well because it’s lightweight and sealed with silicon. This type of construction will hold up dramatically better than tile and grout in a home that’s being transported and sited. While the thin-stone is heavier, it’s no less durable.
“Once the prep work is done, it’s somewhat like peel and stick,” Tesvich said of the Bella Core products. “That’s what the product does. It rolls up onto the wall. And it is real marble, real travertine that is being used. And, of course, the Poly system is a fabricated representation of this look.”
Someone with maintenance experience can install a new Bella Core system in two hours, Tesvich said. And the finished product repels water more readily than other systems, and is easy to wipe down.
If you save expenses on wall surfaces, resources can to a new pedestal sink or spa tub.
What Can You Expect to Spend on Grout-Free Vertical Surfaces?
The thin-stone product costs about 15 to 20 percent more than ceramic tile installation. However, it comes out about 15 percent less than if you were installing natural stone tiles. The Poly product costs about 12 percent more than fiberglass, which is often used. But the value over time far outweighs the up-front cost. And the poly is about 40 percent less than the acrylic solution, which often show air bubbles that create wear.
From left Neil N. Malamud, Larry Lieberman, Fred M. Starling, Scott Bradley, Ronda Gallehue
The Floridian Club of Sarasota is a long-term lease community inspired by resort settings
Florida’s gulf coast housing market recently added an intriguing new option, with the groundbreaking of The Floridian Club of Sarasota.
The new offering provides long-term lease relationships and a community inspired by resort settings.
A development arrangement between the Starling Group and the Barrington Group makes way for The Floridian Club of Sarasota, a long-term lease community “for young-at-heart adults”. Gulf coast residents will find a “live here, play here” lifestyle at The Floridian Club.
The community is arranged for beautiful, hassle-free homes and an array of resort-inspired amenities.
Newly developed communities are a rarity, and The Floridian arrives in time when quality housing demand is driving prices higher seemingly by the week.
So, representatives from the combined development group celebrated with a ceremonial groundbreaking at the 48-acres site near I-75 off Jacaranda Boulevard.
New Homes at The Floridian Club of Sarasota
“We are extremely excited to bring the Floridian Club concept to Sarasota and have been overwhelmed by the many positive responses that we’ve already received,” said Larry Lieberman, president and founder of The Barrington Group. “Our long-term lease plan holds a lot of appeal for Baby Boomers, especially those who love to travel but still want the experience of having a close-knit community of friends.”
Lieberman emphasizes the benefits of homeownership without the associated hassles.
“We’re confident that The Floridian Club of Sarasota is going to be a very successful fit in Southwest Florida and look forward to having our first residences ready for move-in by early 2019,” he said.
Single Story 1- and 2-bedroom Villas with a Coastal Appeal at The Floridian Club of Sarasota
Open floor plans ranging from 921-1339 square feet
Fresh light coastal colors that say ahhh.. I live in Florida!
Over-sized closets to hold years worth of great stuff.
Island kitchens so you can invite friends over and share a few cocktails.
Built-in desk areas to keep life organized and technology charged.
Bedrooms large enough to accommodate king beds and grown up furniture.
Walk in showers with room for singing.
Optional one-car attached garage.
Personal exterior trash enclosure that only requires you filling it…it magically disappears five days a week.
A private entrance into every villa.
An in-house design center to make your house a home.
Maintenance-free inside and out so there is more time to enjoy life.
Non Smoking Buildings Available.
The Community Plan
One-time club entry for The Floridian Club of Sarasota is $1,800. Long-term leases range from $1,415 to $1,695 per month.
In addition to the club entry and lease arrangement, there is a $192 per month utility and services fee. The utility and service fee pays for water, sewer, pest control, trash removal, maintenance, landscaping, insurance and taxes. Members of The Floridian Club of Sarasota are responsible for electric, cable, internet and phone costs.
The Floridian Club of Sarasota is located in a high-growth area surrounded by shopping, dining and golfing opportunities. And those Gulf beaches and local culture that Sarasota is known for is on the Floridian Club’s doorstep.
More than 260 single-story villas and an added 48 units in elevator-served buildings will provide a variety of open floor plans to choose. These will include one- and two-bedroom layouts with optional garages and stylish designer touches.
Residents can lease the units from two to 10 years and have the freedom to personalize their space. Also, if the urge to travel takes hold, residents can lock the door and leave. Club staff will keep an eye on things during their absence.
The concept provides the benefits of owning a home without the mortgage, maintenance or management issues.
In fact, a full-time maintenance manager will be onsite to take care of issues inside and out, from repairs and upkeep to something as simple as changing a light bulb or air filter.
Stay Healthy and Happy at The Floridian Club
Residents can work up a sweat in the fitness center or yoga studio, take a stroll with friends along the walking trails, or challenge neighbors to a game of pickleball. A 10,000-square-foot amenity center will serve as the social focal point of the community. The community will provide club activities such as running, cycling, kayaking, wine tasting, cooking, travel and holiday festivities.
Additionally, residents will enjoy a complimentary coffee in the club cafe and cheer for the hometown teams in the BYOB sports bar, which includes a state-of-the-art, wide-screened golf simulator.
At the community’s Business Center, free wifi makes it easy to stay organized and connected. Otherwise, residents can choose to be lazy and relax by the lakefront swimming pool under a shady cabana.
Finally, the Club will provide a full-time concierge and events coordinator to plan activities and outings for the residents, as well as provide recommendations for local connections and resources.
The developers believes time fosters friendships and sense of community. Therefore, short-term lease options are unavailable at The Floridian. However, those interested in 2- to 10-year lease commitments will be provided with set escalations, alleviating any guess work on what future costs will be.
The security of a long-term lease, and the flexibility to leave when life changes, are defining factors in the unique approach at The Floridian Club of Sarasota.
For more information, pay a visit to the Leasing & Preview Center, 411 Commercial Center Court, Unit A, in Venice. Office hours are Tuesday -Wednesday 1 to 6 p.m., Thursday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or call (941) 360-3838 or visit floridianlife.com.
Here are 5 tips to be sure you dress your home to sell!
Step One: ‘Home wash’ Anyone?
Unlike cars, we don’t regularly have our homes washed! You would be surprised how much grime can accumulate over the years. So, if you noticed that your white siding is looking a bit ivory, it’s nothing a strong powerwash can’t take care of. You could rent the equipment and do this yourself or this might be a job where bringing in the big sprayer, by hiring a company, might make more sense. Just like checking behind your kid’s ears, don’t forget about the little nooks and crannies. This means, gutters, porch steps and any other area that might have some hidden “treasures”.
Step Two: Siding and Shutters and Stain… Oh My!
If your home is on the older side you might want to look into an estimate for some new siding to freshen up the exterior. Depending on whether it’s metal or vinyl siding, replacement costs can vary. A new trend for those on a budget is throwing on a fresh coat of paint. Even just painting the shutters can make a huge difference. (Here is an interesting article from a family who painted their siding and were really happy with the results). Another great tip is adding or repairing a patio! If you already have wooden steps or a patio leading into the home, make certain any needed repairs are done, and add a fresh coat of stain.
“Patios added over 12 percent to a home’s value according to one study. While this may not be an easy, one-day DIY project, adding an attractive outdoor living area is something you can undertake on your own if you’re ambitious.”
It is amazing the difference seasonal flower boxes or potted plants can make. However, you do want to be sure that whatever you choose, everything goes together as a complement to the home. While grabbing some random flower baskets from the bargain bin might sound like a good idea, it might be worth a few more dollars to be sure the flowers framing the home enhance the appearance, not distract. Also, don’t forget about the foundation. Adding some low shrubbery at the base of the home is a really elegant and simple touch.
Step Four: Lay of the Lawn
Now that the home has been power washed, repaired, freshened up and dressed with a few leafy friends, don’t forget about the lawn! A well-watered lawn that is trimmed and maintained is like a fresh haircut for a home. It not only will make the grass appear greener, it also will give a clean and sophisticated impression to the home buyer the moment they approach.
Step Five: Decor? Less Is More!
Similar to staging your home, you want to be sure that any lawn or exterior decor is simple and selected to enhance the home’s appeal. Don’t be afraid of open space. This allows the buyers to see their own taste instead of a reflection of yours.
By giving your home the attention it needs for the exterior, dressing the home to sell will truly enhance the curb appeal.
Thus, creating a positive energy with your potential buyers right from the start!
Governor Cuomo Proclaims New York Housing Association’s Factory-Built Home Days April 7-15
The state of New York is officially recognizing factory-built homes this week with the institution of the state association’s Factory-Built Home Days.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently proclaimed Saturday, April 7through Sunday, April 15 are designated as New York Housing Association’s (NYHA) Factory-Built Home Days. In his citation, Governor Cuomo recognized the industry for its increasing popularity and strong contribution to the state economy.
The Governor noted that factory-built housing is a source of quality, affordable housing for New Yorkers and people nationwide. Factory-built housing, including manufactured homes and modular homes, reflects the diversity of new home construction and enables families to realize the American Dream of home ownership. This rapidly growing industry is an important part of the state economy, as it continues to create new jobs and generate tax revenue.
The need for this type of housing has never been greater. At a significantly lower cost than its site-built counterparts, factory-built homes are constructed in climate-controlled factories under strict quality control standards. Construction in a factory is very cost effective and environmentally friendly.
Proclamation Recognizes Industry’s Increasing Popularity, Contribution to State Economy
With a virtually unlimited selection of styles and floor plans, today’s factory-built homes are engineered to be architecturally interesting and energy efficient. Continued technological advancements indicate that this alternative to traditional home building will continue gaining popularity into the 21st century.
The New York Housing Association encourages every consumer to visit a retail center, land-leased community, builder or developer during the Factory-Built Home Days.
The New York Housing Association, Inc. is a not-for-profit trade association comprised of manufacturers, builder retailers, developers, manufactured home community owners, lenders, insurers, suppliers, installers and others who are committed to the quality and growth of the factory-built housing industry in New York State. After 68 years in the industry, the association sets the highest standards for business ethics and practices and remains dedicated to encouraging state residents to explore factory-built housing options.
For more information, go to www.nyhousing.org , like us on Facebook or call the Association office at 1-800-721-HOME
Melrose Village is a Retirement Community in Northeast Ohio
Melrose Village in northeast Ohio was purchased by UMH Properties in 2013, and since that time occupancy has improved to more than 90 percent in the 293-site manufactured home community.
“We have taken out over 50 older homes, brought in new homes, repaved the roads, upgraded the street and entrance signs and renovated the clubhouse,” said Abby Goldberg, director of marketing for UMH.
Melrose Village also has received new playground equipment, a bus shelter for the school children in the community and a decorative fountain in the community’s lake.
Each month, on-site manager Jeremy Mitchell scans the community to award “Yard of the Month”, which is intentionally left a open to a little interpretation: Some months the honor will be bestowed on the owner of the most–improved yard, during a holiday it could be given to the resident who’s provided the most festive decorations and in spring the award could be based entirely on a high–quality floral arrangement.
“The best part of managing Melrose Village, is listening to the residents’ feedback,” Regional Manager Angela Smith said. “The residents who lived here before we bought the community have seen a tremendous transformation. They are so happy that UMH is here making improvements. Residents love how they can see the brand new fountain on the lake, and the views are spectacular.”
All ages community 293 Homesites Built in 1970 Home Prices: $50,000-90,000 Monthly Lot Rent: $337
Last August, Melrose Village hosted former Cleveland Browns Running Back Kevin Mack, who signed autographs and talked with the residents. More than 400 people showed up, including some from the wider community who heard about the event on a local radio station.
“All of those things make a huge difference in creating a positive experience for everyone here,” Mitchell said.
“We’ve also had Santa Claus come to our clubhouse, and kids came in from some of our other communities too. We had cookies and surprises for everyone. We had a coloring contest, which was great. And by the way, everyone won a prize. I’m pretty sure we would have had a revolt of some kind otherwise,” he said.
In addition to celebrations in the community clubhouse, including a Halloween costume party, Melrose Village recently conducted a food drive, gathering non-perishable items for delivery to a local food bank.
“It’s amazing what you can do when you have that many neighbors willing to contribute,” Mitchell said. “I wore myself out carrying food into Salvation Army.”
Bathtubs are hot spots for stains and grime. It’s spring. And now is a great time to tackle that bathtub project.
Maybe you are thinking of selling your mobile home, and want the bathroom and bathtub to look as clean as possible. Or, maybe you just want a fresh clean look. Either way, here are some tips and tricks you can use to get your bathtub looking its best:
Natural Remedies for Cleaning Bathtubs
Harsh chemicals can wreak havoc on your lungs in small enclosed spaces, like bathrooms. In addition, abrasive cleaners can damage finishes or cause the color to fade.
If you are looking for green alternatives or something that isn’t quite as hard on your lungs, a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and warm water is a great place to start. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray down your bathtub. Wait 10 to 15 minutes and then wipe dry. For more stubborn spots and stains, another great bathroom product is good, old-fashioned baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the stained spots, spray with your vinegar solution and let soak. Giving it time to set allows the mixture to really go to work. Rinse and wipe dry.
Another option for fiberglass bathtubs, which are common in mobile homes, is to use dishwashing liquids. These are non-abrasive and are great for cutting through bath scum and deposits left in the bathtub.
Many mobile homes have Garden Tubs – which are larger bathtubs with jacuzzi jets. For these, you should check with the manufacturer on their recommendations for cleaning the jets.
However, here are 4 simple steps to get you started:
Fill the tub over the jets with hot water
Add a cup of vinegar and run the jets
Let the jets run on high for 10 to 15 minutes
Drain. And clean the tub
You may need to repeat this process several times to get all the gunk out. You also can clean the jets directly with a small brush or old toothbrush, which will help keep them clean.
Bathtub Repairs, Going Beyond Cleaning
If your bathtub is damaged, replacing it can be difficult. Some homeowners might be able to tackle this project themselves, while others will want to call in a pro. Be sure and look for specific mobile home parts and suppliers, since sizing can be an issue. Mobile Home Repair has some good tips on their website if you are thinking about taking on this kind of project.
Keeping Bathtubs Looking Great – Prevention is Key
Once you have done all the hard work of cleaning the tub, you will want to keep it that way. The best tip is to completely wipe down the tub after each use. That will help prevent stains and mildew from building up. Also, make sure to remove bath products and bath mats – trapped water can cause rust and mildew stains in your bathtub. Wipe down the jets after use to also keep them from filling with grime.
Bathtubs and bathrooms can be tricky spots to keep clean, so once you have done all this hard work, take a nice long soak – you deserve it!
Diane and Harold Wood Enjoy the View from their New Front Porch
Manufactured Housing Captures Attention of Baby Boomers Who Want to Optimize, Downsize — Quality Housing Options for Retirees
One of America’s largest home builders is creating quality housing options for retirees. Clayton Homes offers opportunities for homebuyers of the Baby Boomer generation who seek modern, energy-efficient housing without sacrificing affordability.
In January 2018, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average price of a new single-family, site-built home with land in America was $382,700 – up 6.5 percent from January 2017. As the cost of housing rises each year, families face a limited supply of affordable options.
“We looked at site-built homes, but for the value and the money and the quality,” Diane Wood said. “We were going to have to do without a lot of things.
“That’s what did it for us. We got a lot of quality and value for our money,” she added.
With an average price of around $68,100 without land as of October 2017, manufactured homes offer a promising solution to the affordable housing crisis.
And people are starting to take notice. Clayton Built™ manufactured and modular homes are beautifully designed with quality, brand-name materials at an affordable price.
At home in their new place — the Cameron by Clayton
Why Baby Boomers View Manufactured Housing as the Quality Option They Need
Diane and Harold were looking to build a “forever home” on the beautiful farm property owned by their family for generations. According to the Home Buyer and Seller Generational Report 2017, “buyers 62 to 70 are often moving due to retirement, desire to be closer to friends and family and desire for a smaller home.”
The Cameron by Clayton Homes
Manufactured and modular homes are offered with custom floor plans and upgradeable amenities, including stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.
Initially the Woods were considering a traditional, site-built home for their family property, but found the cost of construction limited their options. So, that’s when they visited a Clayton Homes store and discovered all of the quality housing options for retirees. The couple walked through every home, and went back to several homes more than once. One of the homes that intrigued these thoughtful shoppers the most was The Cameron, a 1,512 sq. ft. Clayton Built® home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
The Woods’ home includes a one-story open floor plan with a beautiful kitchen, center island and recessed ceiling that is perfect for large meals and entertaining. Furthermore, they even chose to upgrade to the Clayton Energy Smart option, which includes high-efficiency insulation, low-emissive windows, a programmable thermostat and several other features that will help reduce utility costs in the years to come.
Onsite Upgrades Among the Many Housing Options for Retirees
Harold Wood Shows a Family Photo from the Property
Diane and Harold Wood had the home delivered by truck to their property. The home was affixed to a permanent foundation, but the Woods still had some options to incorporate. They wanted some ideal touches for their lifestyle. The couple decided on a garage to the end of the new home. Finally, they knew they needed a front porch where they sit together every evening and enjoy the spectacular view.
Once settled, the Woods invited Clayton to visit their new home and talk about the home buying journey. As a result, Clayton has released a video documenting the story.
“This is where we’re happy,” says Diane. “We’re porch people, and we just love looking out at the beautiful mountains and the view.”
Harold and Diane Wood
For more information, visit www.claytonhomes.com and take find your dream home and to take a virtual tour of The Cameron.
Most manufactured homes are a single story, but did you know that several companies also make 2 story manufactured homes? At MHVillager, we think the world of the manufactured home companies that are out there building better and better homes. Not only do they make traditional single-story mobile homes, but many have all kinds of new and interesting options including those 2 story mobile homes or modular homes.
The factory-built second-story homes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common are modular homes. In this case, the components of the modular or manufactured home are built in a factory and then assembled on site. Curious how this works? Read about the step-by-step construction process and learn how mobile homes are built.
There is also a variety of smaller “tiny” homes and park models that aren’t strictly 2 story, but have upstairs sleeping lofts and/or balconies. Let’s take a look at some of these fun multi-level options.
2 Story Modular Homes
Let’s start with some traditional 2 story modular homes. If you own your own land, these might be for you.
This is the Fitzgerald by Champion Homes. We’ve featured a number of Champion homes on the MHVillager blog because they offer a wide variety of floorplans for manufactured homes. Included in this are several second-story modular homes. The Fitzgerald has four bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms and comes in at 2,520 square feet. You can check out the floorplan of this particular home on their website from the link above.
Here’s another 2 story modular home by Champion, The Bristow. This one is a little smaller than the Fitzgerald, with three bedrooms and2 1/2 baths. It is 1,920 square feet.
We’re loving those gorgeous porch columns and the attached garage! This is a really lovely home.
Champion Homes aren’t the only manufactured home company that also makes second-story modular homes. Palm Harbor has some as well. Take a look at the Greenbrier I by Palm Harbor:
The Greenbrier I is available only in Delaware, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Georgia. It is not available in Florida. And it has three bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and comes in at 1,978 square feet. Just look at that wraparound porch!
The Arlington is a little smaller than our previous homes. It has two bedrooms and two baths. And it is a total of 1,227 square feet. Like the other second-story homes we are highlighting, check out the manufacturer’s website for more details, floorplan options, and to see if it is available in your area.
2 Story Tiny Homes and Park Models with Lofts
Speaking of going a little smaller, let’s take a look at the new line of park model RVs and other small mobile homes that are hitting the market. Again, these are homes made by traditional factory-built housing companies, so they know how to build a great home at a great price. If you are curious about what a park model home is, or the difference between a park model and a tiny house, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s take a look at these gorgeous little homes from Cavco. I have to tell you though, the manufacturer for these is in Arizona, so they aren’t available up here in the northern climates yet. Still, they have a great look and are something to look forward to!
More information and additional photos of the other second-story homes they offer can be found on the Cavco website.
And just so that those in the midwest don’t feel left out, Athens Park Model RVs offers a variety of adorable homes with lofts. Here’s one from their factory in Claysburg, Pennsylvania:
Athens Park Model RVs are also built in California, Arizona, Florida, Texas, and Nebraska. Check out what the director of sales at Athens says about the recent growth of park model homes for new manufactured home buyers.
Not a 2 Story Manufactured Home, But Still Cool
Alright, I admit, it’s not a second-story home, but I had to include this one, if only because it shows the huge variety of manufactured home options out there. The outdoor space is amazing, and as you can see here, and from our lead photo for this blog. Click the link to check out more about the Riviera from Palm Harbor:
The Riviera is designed for coastal living. The 360-degree views is that of a second story home, right? Of course the home doesn’t have to be on pilings, but being that it is offered in Florida waterfront mobile home communities and other coastal locales, it’s a great option. You can see more photos of this home on the Palm Harbor website.
And just for fun – there is this great lakeside home! Okay, it’s the home has only one story, but the porch has two stories!
This final home is by Homes of Merit. They offer homes through retailers and communities throughout Florida, and parts of Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and Louisiana. Cute, isn’t? Can’t you just see sitting on that rooftop porch enjoying the view?
This weekend, October 7th through the 9th, 2022, is your opportunity to tour six model homes as part of the Manufactured Home Showcase.
The Showcase,...
Novi Home Show to Include 5 New Manufactured Homes
The Novi Home Show, Oct. 11-13, will include five new, fully-decorated manufactured homes from some of...
MHVillage has been and continues to be the first place to go when you are looking buy or sell a manufactured home. Over the years we continue to try and top ourselves adding additional advertisement options, and resources for customers. Lately our focus has been providing you up and coming mobile and manufactured home news!
Aluminum mobile home windows are less energy-efficient and won’t last as long, most likely, but they can be easier on the budget, especially if there are a large number of windows to replace. It’s not always the best option, but 
windows, a painted fiberglass product is more likely to pass for the traditional wood frame window. It has a great amount of resistance to weathering, which means its energy efficiency will remain intact.
