1971 "As Is" Modified Singlewide

[Joanna]

My husband and I are considering buying a 1971 modified singlewide as a second home. It's in a desirable land-lease mobile home community on the Delaware shore. The roof is new in 2002. The heating (oil forced air) and AC are about 8 yrs old. We would like to renovate the interior that hasn't been changed since the 70s. The house is being sold "as-is". Any advice/warnings about this purchase?

[David Oxhandler]

What is modified about the singlewide ?

[Joanna]

The modification is an enclosed addition (added in 1972, I believe) on concrete block foundation.

[David Oxhandler]

Your looking at a home that was built prior to the adoption of the Federal HUD code that regulates MH Construction standards so it is difficult to comment on the way the home was built. One thing we do know is that the home has been where it is for some time. I think I might visit the neighbors to introduce myself as a potentially new resident in the park, and ask what they know about the community, the management the particular home your considering, and others like it in the park.

Even if your a Do-It-Yourself type, get a proposal from a local contractor to do the renovations your thinking about. You want to know in advance what the entire project will cost. Additionally by bringing in a professional contractor to make an estimate he may see things that could add to the expense that you are not considering.

If the total cost is in your comfort zone, If the park offers the location, setting and life-style your seeking, go for it. It may not be easy to find that combination again.

If your considering doing some or all of the renovation work yourself click thru to The OnLine Guide To MH Repair & Renovation

[Bill Fry]

In a MH as old as this you're going to run into all sort of things that need replacing and strengthing.Wall studs,insulation,electrical,plumbing are more then likely all sub par.No or very little building regulations for MH in that time meant most were built cheaply.When you start remodeling the costs can rise sharply if its done correctly.
In many cases it would be cheaper to just start with a new one.

[David Oxhandler]

Bill -
I have seen the broken older home types that you speak of but I have also found homes older than this one that have been well maintained and cared for and upgraded over the years.
Joanna -
What type of renovations are you looking at?

[trmimo]

The brand can be very important to avoid the thing Bills suggests in a home of this age.
What brand is it?
And like I posted on the other forum, check the wire, if it is aluminum, don't buy it.