Trailer house

What is a trailer house?

A trailer house is a house that is built in a factory and then transported to a specific location where it is placed on a foundation. These homes are built according to specific building codes set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the United States, and similar regulations exist in other countries. Many people wonder if buying a manufactured home is a good investment. To answer that question, let's first understand the main features and qualities of these homes.

Trailer houses are constructed by skilled building professionals in a controlled environment. It usually takes around 2 to 3 months to complete a typical manufactured home. The production process flows smoothly from one stage to the next, with minimal delays and high quality ensured through specialization and training. The building process is relatively efficient due to strict timelines, although custom options may be limited compared to traditional homes.

When considering the pros and cons of trailer houses, the advantages often outweigh concerns about the manufacturing process. These homes offer flexibility and are becoming increasingly popular as a viable alternative to traditional homes. If you're still unsure about whether buying a trailer house is a good idea, we'll help unravel the mystery for you!

Origins of the trailer house

The history of trailer house can be traced back to the early 20th century when camping trailers gained popularity. In the 1910s and 1920s, the number of cars on the road increased rapidly. Car owners started going on camping trips, also known as "autocamping," using their cars. To make camping more convenient and comfortable, people began building trailers that could be towed behind cars. By 1936, there were an estimated 300,000 camping trailers in the US, with the majority being homemade.

As autocamping became more popular, municipalities started building campgrounds to accommodate campers. Trailer parks designed exclusively for trailers also started to emerge. Despite being initially used for camping, trailers were increasingly utilized for year-round living, especially during the Great Depression when affordable housing was scarce. However, there was a stigma associated with trailer living, and many municipalities tried to limit the permanent occupancy of trailers.

To protect their interests, trailer manufacturers formed the Trailer Coach Manufacturers Association (TCMA) in 1936. The association aimed to advocate for favorable treatment by governments, maintain trailers' classification as vehicles rather than housing, and ensure favorable regulations.

During World War II, there was a mass migration of people to areas of defense production, creating a housing demand that was fulfilled by trailers. After the war, the housing shortage persisted, and mobile homes continued to be used as a solution. Their size increased over time, but transportation limitations restricted their dimensions. The introduction of the 10-foot wide mobile home in 1954 allowed for more space and convenience. It marked a shift from mobile homes being truly mobile to serving as low-cost permanent housing.

Mobile home production became more decentralized, with plants being built closer to where homes would be placed. The relaxation of highway regulations in the early 1960s further expanded the size of mobile homes. They became a competitive option for low-cost housing, and sales skyrocketed. However, despite their growing popularity, mobile homes still faced stigma and exclusion from many communities.

Efforts were made to establish quality standards for mobile homes, but enforcement was often lacking. Issues such as poor waterproofing and subpar construction materials persisted. Mobile homes also tended to depreciate in value faster than traditional homes.

In summary, trailer houses have a rich history dating back to early camping trailers. They have evolved from being used primarily for camping to serving as affordable permanent housing. However, stigma, quality concerns, and zoning restrictions have continued to challenge the acceptance of mobile homes as a legitimate housing option.

Types of trailer house

Single-wide

Single-wide homes are the smallest option and are usually the least expensive. They typically have one to two bedrooms and bathrooms and range from 500 to 1,200 square feet. Single-wide homes are 18 feet wide or less, 90 feet long or less, and up to nine feet tall. This is about half the size of the average site-built family home. Single-wide homes can fit within a highway lane, which means less on-site work is needed.

Double-wide

Double-wide homes are built and transported in two sections, which are then assembled on-site. They usually have two to three bedrooms and bathrooms, along with additional layout features not found in single-wide homes, like separate dining rooms. The larger size of double-wide homes allows for more customization in terms of interior and exterior design. They can range from 1,000 to 2,300 square feet. Sizes can vary, with widths of eight to 16 feet, lengths of 42 to 60 feet, and up to nine feet in height. It's important to note that these measurements refer to the interior space only and do not include features like covered parking or a porch.

Triple-wide/multi-wide

A triple-wide manufactured home, also known as a multi-wide, can be as large as 4,500 square feet and 50 feet in length. The width varies depending on the specific features of the structure. Triple-wide homes offer even more layout customization options and typically include at least three bedrooms and two bathrooms, if not more.

Options for customizing trailer houses

Just like traditionally built new homes, trailer houses offer a range of customization options to meet individual preferences and styles. These customizations go beyond just the basic structure and allow homeowners to personalize their living spaces.

When it comes to trailer houses, you can really make them your own by customizing the interior. You have a bunch of choices when it comes to cabinet finishes, plumbing fixtures, and flooring materials. This means you can design your kitchen and bathrooms exactly how you want them, reflecting your own unique preferences and style. And let's not forget about the awesome features you can add to trailer houses, like vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, and luxurious bathrooms. It's all about creating a comfy and trendy living space that suits your taste.

But customization doesn't stop at the interior. The exterior of trailer houses can also be tailored to suit individual preferences. Homeowners have the option to choose different types of sidings, such as wood or stucco, to give their home a specific look and feel. Roofs can be enhanced with gabled ends and shingles, adding architectural interest and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the home.

It's important to note that while cosmetic customizations can be relatively affordable, adding exterior features like a porch or a garage may involve additional costs. These features can enhance the functionality and curb appeal of the home but might require more extensive construction work and materials.

Furthermore, homeowners who wish to expand the living space of their trailer house have the option to add square footage. This could involve the construction of an additional room or an extension to an existing space. However, it's worth considering that adding square footage can be a more costly customization, as it may require adjustments to the existing structure and systems.

Things to look for when buying a house trailer

Length of the "A" frame

It's important to ensure that the "A" frame of the trailer reaches the front suspension hanger. This design aspect is crucial for stability and weight distribution. If the "A" frame falls short, it can indicate an inferior design that may compromise the overall integrity and safety of the trailer.

Secure attachment method

Check if the trailer manufacturer provides a reliable and secure method for attaching the tiny house to the trailer. The connection between the trailer and the house is critical for ensuring structural stability during transportation. Look for features like strong anchor points, sturdy brackets, and appropriate fasteners to ensure a sound connection that can withstand the stresses of towing.

Wiring for marker lights

Verify if the trailer has been wired with extra cabling to accommodate legally required outline marker lights. These lights are essential for visibility and safety, particularly when towing the tiny house on public roads. Ensure that the trailer is properly equipped to meet legal requirements and enhance visibility for other drivers.

Drawbar space

Consider whether the trailer's design allows for usable space on the draw bar. The draw bar is the front portion of the trailer where the hitch is located. It's essential to have adequate space on the draw bar for mounting equipment, storage boxes, or other accessories. Be mindful that the location of the jack stand (used for stabilizing the trailer when unhitched) should not obstruct the practical use of the draw bar space.

Underfloor insulation

Evaluate whether the trailer's design facilitates or hinders the installation of underfloor insulation. Insulating the underside of the tiny house is crucial for temperature control and energy efficiency. Look for features such as accessible crawl spaces or removable panels that make it easier to install or maintain insulation in the underfloor area.

Underfloor storage

Check if the trailer's design includes provisions for underfloor storage. Utilizing the space beneath the trailer can be valuable for storing equipment, tools, or other items. Look for features like lockable compartments, access panels, or built-in storage options that maximize the use of underfloor space while keeping your belongings secure and protected.

Off-grid considerations

If you plan to have an off-grid trailer house, ensure that the trailer's design incorporates a protected area between the axles to house your bank of deep cycle batteries. Deep cycle batteries are commonly used to store electrical energy in off-grid setups. Having a dedicated, secure space for the batteries between the axles helps protect them from external elements, impacts, and potential damage while ensuring efficient use of space within the trailer house.

Trailer house maintenance checklist

Foundation

Regularly check your foundation or support structure for any cracks or imbalances caused by settling. This is particularly important in the first few years after moving your home to a new location. Trailer house, like site-built homes, can sink or settle over time. It's recommended to have your manufactured home releveled periodically to account for shifting. For homes with more complex or permanent foundations, it's advisable to have a professional inspection at least once a year in the first few years to ensure there hasn't been any settling or shifting.

A cracked foundation or an unlevel home can lead to various problems if left unaddressed, such as doors and windows that don't close or seal properly, leaks or cracks in the walls, and drafts of air and humidity entering the home. Stress on one part of the home's structure can impact the entire home, causing it to age faster and potentially leading to warping or bowing. You can check the levelness of your home using a standard carpenter level or water level. In more permanent foundations, such as crawl spaces, slab foundations, or basement foundations, visible cracking, sagging, or shifting is usually a clear sign of damage.

Skirting

The skirting or perimeter enclosure around the bottom of your trailer house is designed to prevent unwanted moisture from entering the underbelly of the home. Regularly check for any holes or cracks in the skirting that could allow moisture or rodents to enter the home.

While you don't want damage to the solid portion of the skirting, it's important to ensure proper ventilation. Good skirting ventilation means having approximately one square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of space under the home. Proper ventilation helps prevent excessive moisture buildup beneath the home, which can lead to issues with humidity and temperature regulation. Too much moisture, whether from skirting damage or lack of ventilation, can even cause problems with the foundation and flooring.

Roof

Regularly check the roof of your trailer house, at least twice a year, to ensure there is no debris, broken or missing shingles. Examine the flashing to make sure it's in good condition, and check for cracks or soft spots in the roof caulking. Any imperfections or weaknesses in the roof can result in moisture, air, and other elements, or even pests, entering the roof cavity of the home.

Applying sealant or coating to your manufactured home's roof every year is highly recommended, especially for flat roofs. Roof coating is essential for temperature regulation and keeping your home dry. The type of coating you need depends on the material of your roof or roof cap, so make sure you use the appropriate coating. For example, asphalt and aluminum coatings should not be used on PVC or rubber (EPDM) roofs. Additionally, check for debris, broken or missing shingles, and ensure the flashing is in good condition.

Gutters

Regularly checking and cleaning your gutters is one of the simplest ways to prevent damage to the roof and exterior of your trailer house. Clogged gutters can cause leaks and water damage to the home. If left unattended, clogged gutters can become heavy with debris and break or detach from the house, causing significant external damage.

Even if you don't have large trees nearby, debris such as dirt, leaves, and rocks can be carried through the air and accumulate in your gutters. Cleaning out the gutters at least once a year is recommended for any homeowner. If you live in an area with frequent rain or snowfall, it's ideal to check and clean them at least twice a year, preferably in spring and before winter.

Siding

Regularly clean the siding of your trailer house to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the exterior panels. Siding is often overlooked when it comes to maintenance, but it should be on your yearly checklist. If your trailer house has vinyl siding, which is the most common type, water with detergent is an effective cleaning solution.

Removing mildew can be more challenging, especially if it hasn't been cleaned for some time. One useful tip is to mix a 1:3 solution of chlorine bleach and water. This solution can effectively break down and eliminate mildew, but be cautious when using bleach as it can be dangerous when mixed with certain substances.

There are also specialized cleaning products available for removing mold and rust from the exterior of a home. Using a homemade or store-bought cleaning solution to scrub the outside siding of your home once a year is an excellent way to maintain its condition and prevent long-term exterior damage.

Window and vent caulking

It's a good practice to check the caulking around your windows and vents regularly, particularly before winter if you live in an area with significant temperature changes. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause caulking to shrink, split, or deteriorate, resulting in cracks, gaps, or warping in the seals that protect your home's climate. Damaged seals allow airflow, leading to discomfort and higher heating or cooling costs.

While many people remember to check window seals before winter, they often overlook other seals around vents, ducts, and other systems that are sealed with caulking or sealant. Resealing once a year before cooler weather sets in can help keep unwanted air and moisture out, reducing your energy bills and making your home more comfortable throughout the year.

Heating and HVAC systems

Regularly clean your air ventilation and heating systems, at least several times a year, to improve the air quality in your trailer house. Changing filters regularly not only keeps the home comfortable and in good condition but also helps reduce the impact of allergies, asthma, and other respiratory and skin problems.

Changing and cleaning filters is an important step for air cleanliness and system maintenance. Additionally, it's recommended to fully vacuum these air systems once a year. You can use a heavy-duty vacuum to do this cleaning yourself or hire professionals to clean the entire air system and inspect the ducts and vents. Regular maintenance and cleaning help prolong the lifespan of heating, cooling, and HVAC systems, saving you money in the long run. Replacing an entire air system can be expensive, so preventive maintenance is essential.

Smart Cleaning Indoors

Wipe walls, surfaces, and fixtures with a mild detergent at least once a year to prevent discoloration. While most cleaning tasks in your home are done more frequently than once a year, it's important to remember the drawbacks of using abrasive cleaning products. Harsh chemicals in these products can cause certain items in the home to appear yellowed, faded, or discolored. Avoid using abrasive solutions like pure bleach, especially on fiberglass fixtures such as sinks, tubs, and showers. Corrosive chemicals can tarnish these features and make them look older than they actually are.

Trailer house prices

Trailer house prices can vary significantly depending on these factors and the local real estate market conditions. Generally, older or smaller trailer houses tend to be less expensive than larger or newer models. The location also plays a significant role in determining the price, as real estate prices can vary widely across different regions and states in the US.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the average price for a new single-wide trailer house in the United States ranged from $30,000 to $80,000, while a new double-wide trailer house could cost between $60,000 and $150,000. These prices typically include the cost of the home itself, delivery, installation, and basic amenities such as plumbing and electrical systems.

Financing options for purchasing a trailer house

You can't get a regular mortgage for a new trailer house because they are not considered real estate. This means your financing options are more limited. However, there is an advantage in that the loan you'll need to take out is likely to be considerably less than what you would need for a traditionally built home.

According to HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), the most common way to finance a trailer house is through a retail installment contract, which you can obtain from the retailer. Some lending institutions that offer conventional long-term real estate mortgages may require the homes to be placed on approved foundations. Additionally, trailer house may be eligible for government-insured loans offered by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the Veterans Administration (VA), and the Rural Housing Services (RHS) under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

FHA loans

The Federal Housing Administration provides support for purchasing a trailer house. With an FHA loan, you still need to secure outside financing, but you're considered less risky because the government promises to cover your debt if you can't repay it. However, getting an FHA loan isn't necessarily easy. You need to meet certain requirements, including owning the land where your trailer house will be placed.

USDA loans

If your trailer house will have a permanent foundation and you're financing both the home and the land it will be on, you may qualify for a loan from the Rural Housing Services (RHS) under the U.S. Department of Agriculture, also known as the USDA loan. There are strict eligibility regulations, so make sure to read the details carefully before applying.

VA loans

If you are a former member of the military, you can consider applying for a VA loan specifically designed for veterans. This loan operates similarly to an FHA loan but is tailored to meet the needs of veterans. With a VA loan, you can finance up to 95% of the purchase value for your trailer house and the land it will be located on.

Chattel loans

Chattel loans are the most popular financing option for trailer houses and are relatively easy to obtain. However, they often come with high-interest rates, so they're not the most ideal choice if you can avoid them. You'll need to get a chattel loan if you plan to rent the land where your home will be placed.

When considering a trailer house, take into account all the associated costs, including location, size, and whether you want to rent or purchase the land. With the right financing, a trailer house can be an affordable housing investment.

Is a trailer house a good investment?

While trailer houses may not appreciate in value like traditional site-built homes, they can still be a viable investment option, particularly if you plan to rent them out. Here are some points to consider:

Lower upfront costs: One of the main advantages of trailer houses is their lower upfront costs compared to site-built homes. This affordability factor can make them an attractive option for individuals or investors who are working within a limited budget or looking for a more cost-effective housing solution.

Rental income potential: Renting out a trailer house can provide a steady income stream. As rental demand continues to rise in many areas, especially for affordable housing options, owning a trailer house that you can rent out can be a lucrative investment. It's important to research the local rental market and assess the demand for affordable housing in the specific area where the home is located.

Maintenance and upkeep: Another aspect to consider is the maintenance and upkeep of the trailer house. Generally, these homes require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and to keep them in good condition for tenants. As an investor, it's important to factor in the potential costs of maintenance and repairs when evaluating the investment viability.

Location matters: The location of the trailer house can significantly impact its rental potential and overall investment value. Areas with high demand for affordable housing, proximity to amenities, good school districts, and growing job markets are generally more desirable for potential tenants. Investing in a manufactured home in a location with these favorable characteristics can increase the likelihood of attracting tenants and maximizing rental income.

Long-term investment strategy: It's crucial to approach the investment in a manufactured home with a long-term perspective. While the value of the home itself may not appreciate significantly, the rental income it generates can provide ongoing financial stability and potential returns over time. Patience and a long-term investment strategy are key when considering a trailer house as an investment.

Longevity and durability

Just like any story, the lifespan of a trailer house can have different chapters, influenced by factors like maintenance, location, and construction quality. With proper care and attention, a trailer house can withstand the test of time, offering a cozy home that endures for many years.

In the United States, trailer houses are constructed following specific regulations set by HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development). These regulations are in place to ensure that trailer houses are sturdy enough to handle the challenges they face during transportation and installation. It's worth mentioning that the HUD code was implemented in 1976, so it's important to keep this in mind. Trailers built before that time may have different construction standards, and as a result, their durability and longevity may vary.

Although there is no specific expiration date for a trailer house, it is generally recognized that their lifespan is shorter compared to traditionally built homes. On average, a well-maintained trailer house can last between 30 to 55 years. However, some trailer houses have been known to last even longer with proper care, while others may encounter issues that reduce their lifespan.

Do trailer parks and mobile homes have a future as affordable housing?

The future of manufactured homes holds tremendous potential to revolutionize the whole notion of trailer parks, which are already quite prevalent. Architects across the United States are embracing a new vision for these compact homes. They're pushing boundaries by incorporating sustainable materials, exploring innovative construction techniques, and implementing value engineering to make housing more affordable for everyone. Their ultimate aim is to challenge and transform the negative stereotypes historically associated with trailer parks, breathing new life and positivity into these communities.

Trailer parks became well-known in the US after World War II, often situated near military bases and construction sites. Although originally intended as temporary housing, they have become a more permanent solution over time. It is estimated that over ten million Americans, often young blue-collar workers, live in these trailers. However, trailer parks were stigmatized due to their mass-produced and industrial nature. Trailers are built on a large scale, sacrificing craftsmanship for cost efficiency. Many architects argued that trailer homes had no place in mainstream design, and this perception led to trailer park communities being relegated to less desirable neighborhoods. Moreover, residents of trailers do not own the land on which their homes are situated, as it is leased.

In the present day, trailer parks represent the elusive dream of homeownership, regardless of economic class. They symbolize having a space of one's own, despite enduring stereotypes that associate them with inadequate housing for "lower-class" communities. More than 70 percent of neighborhoods currently ban trailers from privately owned lots, further segregating those for whom living in a trailer is the only option.

By challenging stereotypes, we can revolutionize affordable and imaginative housing. The prevailing image of modern trailers is a mere distortion of their vibrant reality. A decade ago, manufactured homes were priced at an astonishingly low average of $64,000, in stark contrast to single-family homes reaching an exorbitant $325,000. These homes offer not only financial relief but also embody a greener ethos. With a commitment to sustainability, manufactured homes minimize their environmental impact by using fewer materials and generating minimal waste during construction. Their compact size also contributes to reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. Safety takes precedence too, as the modular construction process ensures meticulous craftsmanship and artful assembly. Despite these remarkable qualities, the construction of manufactured homes has witnessed a disheartening decline. It's a far cry from the golden era of the 1980s, when manufacturers breathed life into a staggering 200,000 units annually. Today, the industry struggles to produce even a fraction of that number, with less than 60,000 units manufactured since 2010.

Architects are also exploring a futuristic solution that resembles something out of a science fiction movie. In the movie "Ready Player One," set in a dystopian future, the main character lived in stacked mobile homes known as "the Stacks." While the idea of "the Stacks" may seem far-fetched, a similar concept could become a reality in the near future as we rethink innovative designs for manufactured homes, but in a vertical manner. This idea draws inspiration from the metabolism movement, where plug-and-play homes can be easily arranged and removed according to residents' needs. The infrastructure is built around each home, fostering a stronger sense of community and accessibility. Vertical manufactured homes have been proposed and revised numerous times, creating a hybrid trailer/skyscraper typology, but they have yet to become mainstream in the world of design.

Advantages of house trailers

Affordability

House trailers are cheaper because they are mass-produced in a factory, which reduces labor and material costs. They cost much less than traditional site-built homes, which is a major advantage. In the early 2000s, the Millennial Housing Commission conducted a study that recognized trailer houses as one of the "largest sources of non-subsidized housing in the country." The increasing housing shortage, driven by high demand and costs, has had a significant impact on the prefabricated home industry. On average, a prefabricated home costs $49 per square foot, while a standard home built on-site costs $107 per square foot.

Structural strength

Many people question the structural strength of trailer houses. Trailer houses are built according to the HUD code adopted in 1976. This is the only federally mandated and administered code that exists specifically for factory production and ensures that homes meet standards for structural design, construction, fire safety, energy efficiency, and transportation from the factory to the customer's site, as stated by the Manufactured Housing Institute. All manufactured homes sold in the United States have a permanently affixed "red seal" to demonstrate compliance with the most stringent certification process in the building industry.

Versatility

Trailer houses offer long-term solutions. Families with a suitable site can start with a basic trailer house and later add additional modules as their needs change. This flexibility allows for affordable initial home ownership. Prefabricated homes can also serve as starter homes for families planning to build a larger, permanent structure in the future. The initial home can then be used as a rental property or repurposed for other needs on the family's property. If the current location is not a long-term option or if the initial site was rented, a trailer house can be moved to another area, although this may present logistical challenges.

Construction timetable

Buying a trailer house means moving into your own home faster. The construction timeline can be as short as 60-75 days for a move-in ready home. If time is a priority, you can explore the Homes Direct ownership program.

Fast installation

Witnessing the delivery and installation of your new home can be an exciting experience. Watching a massive crane lift your new home onto its foundation is a thrilling moment. While the final installation and utility hookup work progresses swiftly, you can start enjoying your new kitchen, bedroom, and new life in your own home. Whether you choose to purchase a home in a manufactured housing community or place a trailer house on your own property, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you can start enjoying your new lifestyle.

Energy-efficient and eco-friendly

Manufactured housing prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental consciousness. The HUD Code ensures that trailer houses achieve high energy efficiency standards with upgraded insulation, energy-efficient windows, on-demand water heaters, and other features. Today, entire homes can even be Energy Star certified. State-of-the-art kitchens and bathrooms in trailer houses feature energy-saving appliances, water-saving plumbing fixtures and faucets, and the option for energy-efficient lighting.

Acoustics

Trailer houses, built as separate modules, can be quieter than traditional site-built homes, with less sound transmission between rooms. The individual construction and insulation of each module minimize sound transference.

Low-risk construction

Trailer houses face fewer issues like damage, theft, and supply delays compared to traditional construction sites. This maximizes time and financial savings for both sellers and customers. Additionally, manufactured housing reduces material usage, waste, and disappearance, contributing to its cost-effectiveness.

Contractor benefits

The benefits of trailer houses extend to the contractors as well. Trained contractors working in climate-controlled factories tend to be well-compensated and more satisfied compared to those who work on-site under adverse physical conditions. Satisfied employees take pride in their work, resulting in a high-quality final product.

Options for customization

Whether you're looking for your first home or planning your dream retirement home, trailer houses offer extensive customization options. With over 100 plans to choose from and multiple locations to visit, you can personalize your home with special features, colors, materials, and optional extras to make it truly unique.

Lower prices for luxury

Trailer houses offer the same luxury options and distinctive floor plans as traditional residences. Most luxury amenities can be added to a manufactured home, such as vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, kitchen islands, fireplaces, and hardwood floors. Despite the additional cost of these luxuries, the overall price is still lower than that of a traditionally built home. You can also enhance your trailer house with garages, patios, sunrooms, decks, landscaping, and other features to make it your own.

Downsides to living in a tiny house trailer

Availability and cost of suitable land

Finding suitable land in suburban or less populated areas with good access and utility supply can be a challenge. Some areas have restrictions that require traditional construction methods. In rural locations, modular housing can be difficult to find or too expensive due to the costs of accessing the area and preparing the site. However, with the increasing popularity of alternative housing and advancements in factory-built homes, some of these limitations are being reduced or eliminated.

Lingering stigma of trailer houses

Despite improvements in manufacturing and design, there are still communities that hold prejudices against trailer houses. However, this perception is gradually changing as more contemporary communities with trailer houses are being established. Some localities that previously prohibited mobile homes are now adjusting their zoning regulations and embracing manufactured home communities to meet the demand for affordable housing.

The difference between site-built and prefabricated homes

It is important to consider the differences between site-built and prefabricated homes, especially if you are considering a trailer house as a long-term option. While manufactured homes have several advantages, it is crucial to take all factors into account before making a decision.

Lender requirements

Financing a trailer house can be more challenging than financing a traditional home. Some lenders may consider manufactured homes as personal property rather than real estate, which can affect your plans and available financing options. Interest rates for trailer houses may also be higher, and lenders may have stricter requirements.

Long-term value

Although trailer houses offer various benefits, it is essential to be aware of their drawbacks. In some areas, manufactured homes may have a lower assessed value compared to stick-built homes, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Property tax payments for trailer houses are typically minimal. While the value of prefabricated homes historically tends to appreciate more slowly than other types of property, market factors now have a greater impact on their value. As the manufactured housing sector continues to expand, it is expected that appreciation rates for these homes will become increasingly comparable to those of other types of homes, depending on the location.