Southern Energy

[Pam Fansler]

Hi Randy,

I just ordered your book, but don't want to wait for information. A builder in Pueblo Colorado is selling Southern Energy Homes. Do you know if Southern Homes has a solid reputation? I read an article on-line regarding their homes in the late 90's, but don't know if they have "shaped up."

[Randy Eaton]

Hello Pam,

(Information below is taken from my Manufactured Home Comparison Guide)

Southern Energy currently operates four manufacturing facilities that produce homes sold in approximately eighteen states. Southern Energy Homes has four brand names called: Southern Energy Homes Inc, Southern Lifestyle Homes Inc, Southern Homes Inc. and Southern Energy of Texas. Southern Energy has approximately four hundred independent retailers and seventeen-company owned retail sales centers. After reviewing Southern Energy and talking with Ty Batchelor the director of operations. I am somewhat pleased with two of their series called, “Southern Energy Homes and Southern Lifestyle Homes Inc.” These two series fall into the, “Average Construction Category.” They will allow customers to customize the home and I like the fact they use 2x8 floor joists and build 90-inch side walls. I also like the 10” overhangs and they use Novadeck for the sub-floor, which is a good product. I don’t like the fact they use 2x4 lumber for exterior walls and the R-factors are weak in my opinion. The vinyl sheet rock that comes standard is disappointing and the cabinets are particleboard. I estimate it would cost between $4,500 to $6,500 to bring these two series into the quality construction category. The other two series don’t impress me much. After reviewing their standard features I would have to place them in the, “Poor Construction Category.” I estimate it would cost between $5,500 to $8,500 to bring these series into the quality construction category. On average you will find the cost per square foot to be around $33 to $43. The company is appealing to the entry-level and mid-range buyers. The company’s web site does a good job getting the information out. They do list their series and the standard features available in each series. This is a mid-size company that takes pride in making sure their customers are taken care of. If you’re an entry-level or mid-range buyer this would be a good company to check out.

Good luck Pam and let us know what you decide on!

Randy Eaton

[pam]

Thanks. The builder I talked to deals with Southern Energy of Texas. I think I'll keep looking.

[Tim]

they use Novadeck for the sub-floor, which is a good product

can you explain why "Novadeck" is a good product?