The Manufactured Housing Forums

I'm looking at a place and would like your opinion. We would have it set up on a concrete slab (Pacific Northwest coastal area, no frost issues) with block skirting.

This three-section house is quite nice. It was set up at a show, torn down, set up again at the dealer's lot. I have a couple of questions.

Do you think 25% off list would be a reasonable price?
The two areas I think I would inspect really carefully would be the roof, for good sealing, and I am concerned about the lag screws connecting the sections. Since it would be the third time lag screws went into the joining pieces, would that potentially be a weak spot? If so, would it be a good idea to add plywood plates when it goes together for its third and final time?

thanks in advance!

I wouldn't worry about the lag screw issue. Having bought many show homes over the years I can tell you that homes aren't completely bolted together for shows. Or many times at dealers lots for that matter. The plywood plates you suggest wouldn't help much because they would do nothing at all for vertical movement. My first concern would be with exterior siding, especially if it is vinyl. Show homes aren't usually set as tightly together as a home would normally be installed, which means the siding has to be re-cut when the home is permanently set. Also I would make sure that any broken mouldings both inside and outside are replaced as they aren't made to be taken down over and over and get damaged. You may get some extra drywall cracking in transit from the extra move, but if it is installed to the manufacturers standards, your possible issues will likely be cosmetic. Look closely for carpet wear, nicks, scratches and dents from having so many people view the house. Unless the home has been in inventory a very long time, I don't think you can expect 25% off. If you are able to get 25% off, make sure you price the same home elsewhere. The "list" price is inflated if you can get a 25% discount. Most retailers just don't have that much mark up.