Skyline or Ritz-Craft

[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.

[amanda]

would like your comments on Redman homes.

[mary dame]

I need comments on ritzcraft or skyline also. opinions please.

[rmurray]

I am not avoiding comment on your question here...These are brands that I do not have direct knowledge of...but I would like to sat this..

All three of the brands mentioned in this tread are multi plant brands...The product at each plant is different and each plant has more than 1 model....each with different specs....The three names..Skyline, Ritzxraft and Redman are 3 of the oldest names in the business...If you were to check out the Manufactured Homes Hall of Fame...you would find pictures of all three of these brands built in the 50's...

There seem to be 3 ranges of homes in the market place...Lowest will be very basic and built barely to the HUD code....As an example in my market place..a 32X80 will sell for about $ 50,000 w/ac and skirting....Next there is the vast middle...Slightly better basic construction and much better features...maybe all wood cabinets, better carpet, better counters..the list goes on...but these things will make a great difference in your overall enjoyment...in our market these 32x80 homes sell for about $ 60,000 to 63,000 w/ac and skirt...Then there is the very best...very highest quality comstruction, absolute best features, customization ability, best warranties, best factory service, most complcated floorplans the list goes on and on..in our market these 32x80 homes sell for about $ 75 to 85,000..

Each manufacturer specializes in a range...You cannot take a low end home...add goodies and make it a better home...High end manufacturers will not make the compromises needed to nuild a competitive low end home...Make sure you are buying in the manufacturers specialty range..


All of the homes in the market place will preform well over time..some will make life easier and some will take more maintenence over time...example..pressboard cabinets will look rough after 7 to 10 years..wood when maintained will last forever..

The 1 item missing in these type of questions is the dealer...Shopping a manufactured home is different than any other major ticket item...example...a Ford Taurus is a Ford Taurus...no matter which dealer you buy it from..same goes for appliances, computers..any other big ticket item..service is done by any dealer or warranty is handled by the manufacturer...It is just not this way in our business...

The best home in the market..sold by an incompetant dealer WILL be a nightmare..The cheapest home on the market sold by a quality dealer will be a happy experience...Shopping the dealer is the hardest part of the deal..The only way you can judge is to very educated and ask questions..If the dealer lies or is in anway deceptive...LEAVE..ask for references...check the BBB (not perfect.but if there are any unresolved complaints..move on)..check consumer agencies..Ask for references...there are even internet sources where you can buy a credit check (such as Dun's and Bradstreet)...this is a small investment in relation to your home and can tell you worlds of info about your dealer..the dealer wants to credit check you...maybe you should be credit checking him..

Good luck with your hunt..Happy house hunting..