Saturday, January 11, 2014

The Value Of Modular Homes New York

By Marissa Velazquez


Modular homes New York offer value for your housing dollar and just about as much flexibility as site built homes. They appreciate in value if well maintained, and can be customized to maximize energy efficiency. It's important to know the difference between modular, stick-built, and manufactured houses when thinking of buying or building.

The modular house is constructed inside a factory. Its interior and exterior materials are not exposed to rain, sun, or snow, and the unit shipped to its new site will be completely weather-proofed. At the property, the sections are connected and finished by a local contractor. Construction time is greatly shortened, and the cost per square foot is very competitive. Quality control can be greater, as well. Site built housing reflects the work of the main contractor and all sub-contractors that work on the job. The modulars are backed by a manufacturers' guarantee, with no sub-contracting to lower the bar.

Site built buildings, also known as stick-built, are constructed entirely on the property. The contractor who bids for the job is responsible for the quality of work and materials, but sub-contractors often do a lot of the construction, especially in development houses. Units built in a factory have uniform quality throughout, and the manufacturer will guarantee every bit of the work. There is no loss in flexibility in the design of the home; there are hundreds of floor plans to choose from and customizing is an option.

Manufactured housing is an entirely separate category from modulars or site-builts. This type of unit is constructed in a factory to federal code requirements, which may not conform to local or state codes. The unit is built on a permanent steel chassis which remains with the unit; it is usually hidden from sight by skirting. One or more units can be joined together by vertical trim, and there is no permanent foundation. This type of housing often declines in value over the years.

Manufactured housing is built according to federal standards, or HUD code. They don't have to conform to local and state codes or be approved by a local building inspector. They're not allowed in all localities or acceptable to all homeowners' associations. If you're considering building a home or moving a manufactured house, check the local restrictions before you finalize your plans.

Financing and insurance may differ for these types of home, as well. Many insurance providers do not work with manufactured home owners, since the units are not on permanent foundations. Lenders often treat manufactured housing as personal property rather than real estate. When buying an existing home, get a written statement from the seller or the listing agent as to the exact nature of the house you are considering.

The construction costs for modulars are very competitive. Modulars can be customized - to increase energy efficiency, for instance, which is important in upstate New York. Upgrades are offered for all features of standard designs, and an architect can use sections to achieve almost any custom effect. Check online photo galleries to see beautiful kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and pleasant living rooms.

Modular homes New York can be as sturdy, beautiful, and unique as any site built home, and they will be as good an investment. Check out the local code requirements and any development restrictions before you proceed with planning.




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