If you are interested in buying a new manufactured or modular home, there are many factors to consider. Here are the top ten questions to ask when purchasing a modular, mobile or prefabricated house.
1. Do You Have Special Needs Circumstances?
The first question to ask yourself surrounds any special needs you or your family have. If someone has trouble navigating stairs, you will need to make sure your kitchen, living area and at least one bedroom and bathroom are on the same level.
2. Handicap Accessibility
If anyone in your family or frequent visitors utilizes a wheelchair, you need to ensure that your new home will have wheelchair ramps and accessible bathrooms with showers and toilets and wider doors.
3. Storage vs. Living Space
Another factor to consider is the amount of storage and living space you need. Families with young children may opt for more living space to accommodate their growing children, toys, clothing, and furniture .
4. Energy Efficiency / Lower Utility Bills
If you are concerned about your home’s impact on the environment, you may want make your home energy efficient. This can be done through cost effective insulation and heat pumps.
5. Personalized Design
Designing your home includes more than the paint color and layout. It also involves fixtures, accents, outdoor areas, flooring and counter tops. These should all be considered when buying a new home.
6. Timeline
Do you have a certain month or day you need your home to be completed by? Make sure you talk to your consultant about the time it will take to build your home.
7. Location
Where do you want your home built? Are you looking for a country escape or a suburb outside the city? How about school districts for your children or proximity to your office? All of these factors will not only impact your search, but the quality of your life once you are moved into the home.
8. Gas vs. Electric Appliances
Do you prefer a gas stove and furnace to electric appliances? There are pros and cons to each, but your decisions depend on your desires.
9. Budget
Knowing your budget right from the beginning can keep you focused on your plans without over spending or being surprised by your final bill.
10. Additional Costs
One final item to keep in mind is the additional cost of hooking up your home to sewer, water and other utilities. These usually are not factored into your original cost.
PS: Financing a new home is the first step and a priority. Financing , the process can take 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of loan.
If you would like to learn more about modular homes or speak with a new home consultant, please contact Brooks Village Green Homes at 618-627-7095. Our skilled representatives can answer your questions and get you started on designing your home.