Have you ever considered buying a mobile home? Many families live in mobile or pre-fabricated homes and some people choose them as second homes or vacation homes. Mobile homes have really evolved over the years and no longer have that “trailer” feel. Most are quite well built and very attractive, with the additional benefit of costing less per square foot than traditional homes.
Here are some tips to keep in mind if you decide to purchase a mobile home:
1. Make sure that delivery, set up, leveling, and the application of skirting are all included in the purchase price and that the company uses experienced people to complete these tasks.
2. If your home is not going to be set up flush with the ground, you’ll need sets of stairs to gain access. Find out if stairs are available, how much they cost, and if they can be included in the purchase price.
3. Check out the appliances carefully to insure that everything you need is included and that each piece is a quality unit. If not, negotiate for more or better appliances before agreeing to the purchase. For example, there may not be a dishwasher. Find out if it is possible to have a built in model installed and how much it will cost. It’s much easier to have things like this done before you move in than it is to do them later.
4. Find out if homeowner’s insurance is included in your monthly payment. If so, examine the policy carefully. It may only cover certain types of damage or may only pay off your mortgage. You can often find less expensive insurance that provides better coverage on your own. Look for a policy that covers the contents of your home and any other issues important to you as well as mortgage payoff.
5. Consult with other finance companies to see where you can get the best terms. In-house financing offered by mobile home dealers may or may not be the best option for you.