Sales profits

[Sandi Jones]

I am currently considering the purchase of a manufactured home.
I have become overwhelmed with all the additional costs involved in the purchase procedure, i.e., bricking, hvac, utility hook ups, etc.
All these costs seem so inflated compared to contractor prices I previously paid when actively involved in real estate property management.
All things considered, I have yet to find a dealer who will move off the asking price for the home itself. Nor have I found a dealer willing to expose his profit margin on his home.
What is the average profit margin I should expect to pay for a manufactured home in the North Carolina area?
Thank you for you assistance.
Sandi

[Chrissy]

Thanks for writing. As far as I know, there is no average profit margin for a home anywhere in the country. It all depends on the retailer's costs of doing business, the "after-the-sale" service he provides, etc. The HVAC, utility hook-ups, and bricking, any decking, septic tank installation, etc., are usually billed separately from the home due to financing requirements. Most finance companies will roll it all together for a loan package, but want it separated for itemization. There may be a chance you can use some contractors with whom you are familiar and comfortable with their quality work. Normally, this works best if you arrange separatae financing for this part OR if you pay cash for this part OR if you arrange financing for the entire package yourself and eliminate that part of the retailer's service. Good luck with your new home - you will love it!

[Steve Williams]

Can you tell me where to start looking for good information about getting into the MH business and what aspect(s) are the most profitable. Also, what geographical areas would you recommend?

Thank You,
Steve Williams

[Chrissy]

Good information aabout getting into the manufactured housing industry is readily available through the trade publications. On my website, click on the "publications" button, then go to the "Free Solutions." One of the documents included there is a listing of all trade publications for the industry. Do you know which segment of the industry interests you? If so, I can provide more specific information.