Modular homes - a revolution in the field of real estate development - are homes built off-site, in a factory environment. Makers of modular homes construct different home sections inside their facilities so that their construction activity is not exposed to the vagaries of weather. Once all the sections of a modular home are constructed, they are checked for quality, packed and then transported to the home site, where they are joined together on a foundation, which has already been readied by a builder. The builder handles the joining together of the different sections. Modular homes may sound like mobile homes, but they are not. Modular homes are built based on standards and conditions that conform to the area on which they will be placed. Mobile homes, on the other hand, conform to a common set of standards - the HUD Code - administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Plus, unlike modular homes, mobile homes are not placed on a foundation.
How do modular homes differ from site-built homes?
Site-built homes, also called stick-built homes, are constructed entirely at the actual location of the house, whereas modular homes are constructed in parts (sections) in a factory and then pieced together at the home site.
Site-built homes are left at the mercy of the weather conditions, while modular homes do not face any danger caused by adverse weather conditions. The homeowner does not have to put in too much time and effort in supervising the construction of a modular home as he would have to if he opts for a site-built home - in this sense, modular homes are a hassle-free option for homeowners. Site-built homes are also more expensive than modular homes, and they take much longer to construct. A modular home can be constructed in as little as 2 weeks, and another 4 weeks (maximum) for the builder to piece together the sections.
Other than this, there are no differences between these two types of homes. Both types have to conform to all local, state, and regional building rules, and pass third-party inspections. So in that sense, there are no real qualitative differences between them. Modular homes have the same lifespan as site-built homes, and they enjoy the same appreciation in value, and once they are done, it would be nearly impossible to tell a modular home from its site-built counterpart.
Are modular homes economical to construct?
Modular homes are truly a marvel in the history of real estate development, and so the answer to the question is yes - these homes are very economical to construct, and save you not only money but also time. Many times the time factor is equally crucial - for example, if you are living in a rented place and paying high rentals or if your lease is ending soon and you want to shift to your own place by then.
The cost advantage of modular homes arises from various factors: (i) The manufacturer of modular homes purchases the construction material supplies in bulk from top-drawer manufacturers and so can share a part of the cost benefit with the client. This not only saves you money but also ensures top quality. (ii) Secondly, unlike site-built homes modular homes don't face the possibility of on-site theft of supplies or acts of vandalism that ruin the materials lying on-site. (iii) Since modular homes are built on a large scale in a factory, wastage of materials is minimal. (iv) You don't need to hire workers or a supervisor to oversee the progress of your home construction.
The time saving comes from the following factors: (i) You don't waste time researching and buying the construction materials and other supplies. (ii) You don't have to personally go to the site often and supervise things. (iii) Since modular homes are constructed in a factory, the construction process is not hampered by the unpredictable vagaries of the weather, thereby saving valuable construction time.
Modular homes are energy-efficient too and save on air-conditioning and heating costs once you start living in one. According to statistics, modular homes can save you anywhere from 5% to 25% of total construction costs compared to site-built homes.
Modular home - Model looks
There's this popular misconception that modular homes look alike - they don't! In fact, the construction process of a modular home involves a great deal of sophistication and finesse - each section is constructed on the basis of a CAD (Computer-Aided Design), and each constructed section is flawless. Efficiency and quality control are the hallmarks of modular homes - if a home is site-built, it will be subject to human limitations, but this is not the case with modular homes.
You can have a small sit-down with the manufacturer and discuss your home design with him, and sure enough you will get a home that's chic and contemporary. You will be surprised to know that many buildings that are now occupied by banks, schools, hotels and offices are, in fact, modular structures!
Can I get finance to construct a modular home?
Yes, you sure can! Banks, other financial institutions, appraisers and insurance firms appraise and value a modular home using the same parameters as for a site-built home. If you would like to know more, then all you have to do is have a word with your banker and he'll clear the air for you.
What precautions should I take before constructing a modular home?
Some developments (in fact, a very few) do not allow modular homes. So, you need to check with their estate office before planning for your new home. However, most developments and communities have no issues with modular homes, but they do have some building specifications that need to be followed.
Conclusion
To conclude, modular homes make lot of sense. They are constructed professionally in a controlled setting, are cost-effective and time-effective compared to site-built homes. They are no less in strength and quality than site-built homes; in fact, they are better, being more energy-efficient. They look chic and contemporary, and appreciate in value as much as site-built homes. Yes, they are blazing a revolutionary trail in real estate development and it won't be long before the number of these homes in the country outpaces site-built homes.
