Things that make you go "hmmm"

[Mike]

I'm currently looking at 2 different model double wide homes, both made by Norris but at different dealerships. I've listed several upgrades that I want, including finished drywall. The first dealer says that Norris doesn't finish the drywall, that I would have to do it myself or hire a contractor. The second says that they are finished. They also checked on making the floorplan that I want a modular instead. The first one said that they are "on frame" modulars only. They don't take the frame off. The second says that I can have them removed or leave them on. And the thing is, both homes are built by Norris and they both come from the same plant in Tennessee! How do I know who's telling me the truth? The first appears to be a little cheaper on the prices that I have so far. But these conflicting reports have me confused.

[rmurray]

Many manufacturers ship the taped and painted homes unfinished...Most often the dealer prices the home finished and contracts with a local contractor to do the work...usually at about $500 per room (that is for taping, texturing, primer paint coat, finish paint and installation of the baseboard trim)....this might well be the reason for the price difference...This is a big job and usually NOT a do it yourself job..

Generally an off frame modular has a different floor structure than an on frame...Also..most off frame mods have connections for the crane built in and a different anchor system...A few manufacturers actually do build a home that is approved both ways...To be sure dealer 2's info is correct...call the sales manager at the factory and ask...

[Jessica]

What is the difference between a modular home and a mobile home?

[rmurray]

A manufactured home is built to a federal building code and inspected in the factory by federal contractors...HUD has a complaint resolution system that can be some help in the case of structural problems..

Modular homes are built to a state building code in a factory..They are inspected in the plant by state inspectors...there are many different building codes for these homes in the nation...Often these homes cannot be transported from 1 state to another...

Both homes have basic models and delux models...Both have factories that build far more than the minimum and factories that build bare bones basic...