Things to Consider When Buying a Mobile Home
More and more people looking to own homes are opting for mobile homes due to their affordability, low maintenance as well as customization. These homes are ideal for anyone looking to escape the cost of a traditional single family home, but needs a more spacious home. Mobile homes are pre-fabricated, factory built and then transported to their final destination. One thing you should know about mobile homes is that their construction is mandated by the HUD code and can be placed on a temporary or permanent foundation. They usually come in two types including the single wide and the double wide. Before including a mobile home in your house hunt, you should bear in mind that the process is quite different from buying other types of houses, hence the need to take your time and understand the process to make an informed decision. Highlighted below are some crucial aspects you should take into account before buying a mobile home to ensure that you get the right fit for you.
Your financing options are an essential aspect you should look at when buying a mobile home. Unlike site built-homes which are considered real estate properties, mobile homes are considered personal property by banks. This means that such credit facilities can only offer you a personal loan, which may not be enough to finance your housing needs. To increase your chances of getting a loan from a mortgage lender, you may need to ensure that your mobile home is permanently attached to a foundation. However, if you do not want to go that route, you can opt for credit unions as they are more likely to offer a mobile home mortgage. Another viable financing option would be to borrow money from a mobile home dealer or take out a personal loan. To be on the safe side, you should consider buying land to place your mobile home rather than renting land as it can help you to secure a traditional mortgage and lower interest rates. While it may be a costly venture, it is worthwhile in the long run as you will be sheltered from the depreciation in the value of your mobile home. In case the value of the land increases, you will be able to build meaningful equity in your home. You should however, understand local zoning and deed restriction laws before purchasing land for your mobile home to avoid any legal tussles with the state.
Before settling on a mobile home, you should also consider the design. The good thing about mobile homes is that they give homeowners a chance to express themselves through design and decor. You should therefore, look for a mobile home builder that can customize your mobile home to meet your housing needs and preferences. The home builder should be able to offer luxurious fixtures and upgrades such as hardwood floors and granite counters to ensure that you live in a beautiful and comfortable space. Therefore, when shopping for a mobile home, it is advisable to understand your needs to have an easy time finding the right one for you and your family.