What We've Found So Far
- We're building "modular" as classified by building departments and for the purpose of zoning ordinances. It's all Prefab, but best NOT to confuse with "manufactured" or "mobile" (i.e. has a chassis that allows it to be rolled away). Some people use these terms interchangeably, but they're technically not the same.
- Architects/designers/manufacturers really don't want to talk to us until we've got land.
- A flat piece of land, accessible by trucks and cranes is best. Most prefab modular plans assume a concrete pad for foundation. Like anything, if you've got the time and money they can make it work on a slope.
- A general contractor is still needed to take care of foundation, assembly, and interior finishing. Working with someone local may help facilitate approvals, inspections, and permits in your new community.
- A standard "new construction" loan should work, if positioned correctly with the right lender, just like stick-built home that you roll into a traditional mortgage. Though there are some lenders that specialize in "modular" housing.
- Ultimately, we may not spend less money. But rather than getting a used, traditional home that we'll either hate or spend gobs of time and money trying to make what we want, we'll get a new modern dwelling. And after all, that's why we're here.
- Published prices are estimates, and probably don't include delivery, foundation, interior finishing, doors, HVAC, appliances, etc. In some cases it doesn't even include windows.
This is all just theory now, but we've got to start somewhere. Hopefully the time we've invested in research will pay off by avoiding unexpected costs and headaches down the road.
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