The Difference Between a Manufactured and Modular Home

There are 2 main types on non-stick-built Colorado Springs homes: Manufactured Homes and Modular Homes.

It is very important to know the difference between these two types of homes. One type is hard to get financing for and generally loses value over time, whereas the other is easier to get financing for and has a MUCH longer life.

Manufactured Homes

A manufactured home is the new generation of what we once called "mobile homes" and is harder to find traditional financing for. These homes are generally more affordable, but are more likely to lose value over time - compared to modular homes.

Manufactured homes are built in a factory and conform to the Federal Building Code (HUD) - not to the local building codes of the area that they will eventually be placed. Manufactured homes are built in separate sections on a "non-removable steel chassis" and transported (via wheels on the chassis) to the destination where they are assembled - but not necessarily on a permanent foundation. These homes do NOT need to be approived by the local building inspector. Manufactured homes are designed to be MOBILE - The chassis allows for the home to be moved (if needed) from place to place.

A manufactured home can be identified by a HUD label which is usually found on the exterior of the home.

These homes are also referred to as single/double wide homes.

Read Also: Colorado Springs Neighborhood Report ~ Chateau at Antelope Ridge

Modular Homes

Modular homes are a closer relative to a stick-built home (a home built entirely on location) and generally appreciate in value over time. It is easier to find financing for modular homes, as they are considered "permanent" structures - compared to manufactured homes that are more mobile.

Modular homes are also built (in sections) in a factory, but are built to conform to the local building codes of the area that they will eventually be placed. They are transported to their final destinations on flatbed trucks and do NOT have a steel chassis. Once all the sections of the modular home arrive at the final location, modular homes are joined together by local contractors and placed on a permanent foundation. A modular home MUST pass a local building inspection.

A modular home can be identified by a UBC (Uniform Building Code) or IRC (International Residential Code) label which can be found under the kitchen sink.

These homes are also referred to as pre-fab homes.

More Resources:

• About Modular and Manufactured Homes
• Differences Between Modular, Manufactured, Panelized, and Precut Homes

For more Information on Homes in Colorado Springs, please call the Wagner iTeam: 719.434.7525