buying a used home

[rosemary]

How do you determine the appropriate value of a manufactured home that is 2 years old? Should you expect it to be worth more than the original purchase price that includes the set up or does it depreciate? We are considering purchasing a 2 year old home but we are concerned that the value will not go up similar to a sticks built home.

[Randy Eaton]

Hello Rosemary,

This is from my book, How to buy a manufactured home and save thousands of dollars.

If you are considering a pre-owned manufactured home, I have found the local newspapers to have the best deals. Normally, homes for sale by private parties are going to be in better condition. Another good source is to contact managers of manufactured home parks in your area, and let them know what you’re looking for. Retailers are also a good source for pre-owned homes. Once you have found a home, hire a home inspector to check for structural problems. To determine a price your local lenders will have a NADA book which lists manufactured homes according to make, model, size, options and overall condition. Again the advice already given should be followed whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned home. If you have questions about pre-owned manufactured homes I have found Atlas Mobile Home Directory offers some helpful suggestions at, http://www.usedmobilehomes.com/html/mob ... rocess.htm. Another popular site for manufactured home buyers can be found at, Manufactured Housing Global Network http://mfdhousing.com/index.html

[Glen & Maria]

Hi Randy,
Question.... my wife & I are looking, for the first time, to buy a manufactored home. Do they appreciate as much as an existing home? If you put a manufactored home in a neighborhood of existing housing.... will you get the same appreciation for the dollar? What should we look for in property?
We have many questions, but I don't want to overstay my welcome. I thank you for your answers. Is there a way of talking to you over the phone? Do you have an 800#?
Have a nice day!

Glen/Maria

[Randy Eaton]

Hello Glen & Maria,

Below are excerpts from my book...

Many people ask me, will my manufactured home appreciate in value like a site-built home? My answer is…yes but you need to do a few things first. Obviously the location is important, a quality neighborhood versus a run down neighborhood. Assuming the location is good, you need to include some features in your manufactured home. I mentioned earlier that the roof pitch was important. I would recommend a 4-12 pitch or steeper, this will give your manufactured home the residential look. Lap siding is not necessary but I feel it also will give your home the residential look. Quality construction is very important with the most insulation possible for your area. Solid wood cabinets and sheet rock through out is also very important.

Placing your home on a concrete foundation is crucial if you want your home to appreciate. Attached garages are a big plus and give your manufactured home the look of a site-built home. (My garage is not attached but it has the same siding and look of my manufactured home) Bottom line is… location, quality construction, concrete foundation and residential appeal. If you have these features in your manufactured home you will be able to sell your home years later and pocket the equity.

Hope this helps. I don't have a 1-800 number but you can purchase my book and know what I know at, www.buymfghome.com

Randy Eaton