Make it your own with Manufactured Homes Part 1: Modular Homes

High-end residential architects are designing creative and affordable modern houses, in a factory. Prefabricated homes are being manufactured in a larger quantity and array of styles than before. Manufactured homes are an increasingly attractive option for people who want an efficient economic dwelling. The three top types for pre-fab structures are modular, mobile and kit homes.

Modular homes use the same materials and techniques as typical site construction but are assembled in less than a day. Standard wood framed construction materials are used to create the structures in local factories. They are reinforced for road travel so they are stronger than homes built on site. The methods used to construct modular homes must comply with the International Residential Code (IRC) which used extensively in all 50 states.

Modular homes are durable and versatile. They can be set up on difficult terrain and additions are easily added in the future if so desired.

Homeowners who purchase modular homes contact a design and project management service to create their ideal home from start to finish. The company has a variety of standard designs to choose from that can be altered to fulfill the customer’s specific needs.

What to expect in the process:

1. Land must be purchased and financing secure


2. $2000 Non-refundable deposit required to start project


3. Choose a model or preliminary design


4. Modify standard design with upgrades of fixtures and finishes


5. Custom designs can be created for an hourly fee


6. Create a foundation plan and ready your drawings for permit application


7. Survey site and adjust design accordingly


8. Finalize estimate to determine cost of foundation and site prep, module costs, delivery and set costs and on-site finishing work by your local contractor


9. Work with contractor and obtain permits


10. Prepare plans for lender appraisals


11. Sign contract when loan and permits are secured


12. 20% up front is paid to prefab co and contractor from loan


13. Order is placed with the factory


14. While model is made site prep begins


15. 2nd draw on loan comes when models are set on foundation


16. Pays balance on model cost, contractor and rest of construction costs


17. 3rd and 4th draws come to add electric, HAVAC, plumbing, appliances and fixtures


18. Certificate of occupancy obtained from city


19. Loan converts from construction to permanent


20. Move in!

Check it out:

Hive Modular is a company that creates innovative modular homes all across America, in the snow or on a hill. See their work to get inspired check out the constructions they’ve built http://www.hivemodular.com/galleries.html and the designs they offer http://www.hivemodular.com/products.html.

Are you looking for a job in Manufacturing? Head over to ManufacturingWorkers.

By Heather Fairchild - Heather is a writer and blogger for Nexxt. She researches and writes about job search tactics, training, and topics.