The pros of modular homes include lower costs over traditional construction methods, better quality, improved construction speed, and better resilience while the cons consist of a bit more complicated financing process, lack of customization, and the social stigma that is the consequence of the low-quality of modular homes in the past. In this article, we explore this topic more thoroughly. If you are interested in purchasing a modular home, you need to read on.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Modular Homes
So, what are the pros and cons of modular homes? We will start with the advantages and then continue with the downsides. Take a look below.
Pros:
- Lower costs – Modular homes are less expensive than site builts (though they might be a bit more costly than HUD Mfg homes), making them affordable for more people.
- Easy to install – Placing modular homes is quick and efficient, letting you move in soon after your new home is ready.
- Durable – Modular homes, even with all their other advantages, are still similarly durable as site-built houses. To add to that, they are even more resilient than traditional homes, making them much safer for areas where natural disasters are more likely.
- Sustainable – When building a modular home, less material waste is produced than during a standard construction, meaning that it’s more friendly for the environment and your pocket (less material waste = less materials needed + quicker clean up).
- You can finance them with conventional means – Unlike HUD Mfg homes, modular houses can be financed through conventional means. Bear in mind, though, that the process might involve a few additional steps when compared to site-built homes.
- Quality – Modular homes are factory-controlled, meaning that the whole construction is highly vetted before being installed. This pays off in high quality that you can be sure of.
- Safer construction – Less disturbance and safer construction are what define modular homes – building a house like that can even help you stay on good terms with your neighbors.
Cons:
- Lack of customization – You might choose from several designs of modular homes, but you never get the possibility to fully customize your dwelling, unlike a site-built house.
- Social stigma – Some time ago, modular homes were associated with low quality. While this is a thing of the past, the social stigma related to this type of housing is still present and might be discouraging. Plus, there are still people who confuse modular homes with mobile ones and may be biased towards them.
- A bit more complicated financing – As mentioned earlier, while you can use conventional methods to finance a modular home, there might be a few additional steps involved in the process, so the process might take longer than for site-built homes.
The Takeaway
By understanding the pros and cons of modular homes, you are prepared to make a conscious decision. If you opt for modular houses, be sure to check our modular home floorplans and see what the house of your dreams could look like.
We also recommend reading: Creating Affordable Energy-Efficient Housing Through Modular Building
