Basements

[Karl]

We may buy a modular home due to zoning requirements of the lot we own. But there is a possibility those requirements will be changed, in which case we could possibly buy an HUD-code doublewide instead. My question is: How adaptable are double-wides to the placing of basements underneath them? Can the floorplans be modified (say, if you ordered a home custom built by a manufacturer) to accept stairwells, etc? Or, as I heard mentioned in here a few months ago, is it better to build in the basement access from outside (say, from a garage or deck, etc?) And with the HUD home, won't the heavy metal underframe protrude into the basement ceiling?

[Dan O'Flaherty]

Most manufacturers of HUD code homes have plans that will allow for an inside stairwell. Some of the builders offer a choice of frames for basement sets. In short there is no problem with placing a HUD coded home on a basement. Check with any good retailer, find a plan and remember to have all the costs outlined for placment before sigining a deal. Some retailers will charge extra for placing a home on a basement.