Best Structural Quality?

[Felicia Bams]

Hi. I'm 34 years old and interested in purchasing a manufactured home. Upon looking at Fleetwood's line-up, I thought my decision to build was a great and easy. Decided to do some research on the internet and feel like I opened a can of dirty worms. This will be my "vacation" home. I live in New York and this home will be in Mississippi. Trust me, I don't want any structural or high maintenance problems. Truthfully, I don't care what it looks like on the outside. I want a really strong foundation and a home that will last me the next 40 years. I'm trying to get a brick home on a stray budget. Are manufactured homes really as good as the dealership made it out to be? Am I going to be in really big trouble a few years from now? HELP!!

[Terri]

Felicia, you definitely must "do your homework." Unfortunately, there are no easy answers...believe me! I would suggest starting with reading as many messages as you can on all three of these boards (this one, the First Time Home Buyers Forum, and Ask the Manufactured Housing Expert forum). I think I've read all that have been posted since 2000! :>) It will give you a good place to begin. There is a huge disparity in the structural quality of homes, even in the same brand, that you simply HAVE to ask the right questions. Sometimes, I hate to say this, but some dealers will obfuscate - some other buyers have even said they were outright lied to - that you must check up on their word by asking the same questions of different dealers of the same manufacturer at the very least.

Just be careful and do some research - it will take time but you have to do it. Good luck to you!

[rmurray]

I can say one thing...The Fleetwoods avaialbe in MS are far different homes than those in NY...

As a matter of fact...Fleetwood just closed a plant in MS...doing the consumers of the SE a favor...

Manufactured Homes can and do last for many years...you might need more than 40 years...you are likely to live much longer...smile..

The best thing you can do is get educated..ask questions...decide what you need in a home..remember all salespersons are on straight commission...visit here often...

In some parts of MS,,, you can hardly buy any new home...MS has gotten the reputation of the unresonable law suit state and some factories will not aloow thier product in some counties...

In the SE there are many good homes...You just have to do your homework..

Good Luck

[kaye alexandra]

I have the opportunity to buy either a Ritz-Craft or Skyline. Don't know which one to get. So confused at this point. Any recommendations? Would appreciate any comments. Thanks so much.

[Cass]

Terri, I realize this thread is over 3 years old but hope you get this message. I have purchased a piece of land in the Calabash area and am in the process of looking for a modular home. I am interested to hear how your search went and/or ended what you purchased and your experience most of all are you happy with your decision.

Regards