Solitaire vs. Palm Harbor

[donna]

We have been looking at several homes trying to decide on a particular company. We really like the Solitaire, but industry sales people (competitors) have been telling us "Solitaire is going into bankruptcy, probably within ten days..."

I have not heard the same about Palm Harbor. We like a lot of features with the PH DW, but we really like the construction and features of the Solitaire DW. But if it's filing for bankruptcy I'd like to know. I'm really tired of sales people and their cut throat blasting of each other.

I would like some solid information or at least a way to find out if one company is going out of business so we can make a decision. Can anyone help us? We would really appreciate it....

Thanks.

[bobby]

Not sure about Solitare, but I do know that I looked at many manufacturers,and went with PH (model 76H2), the construction features here in the south east:2x4 studs all around,2x8 joist,and rafters,3/4 plywood flooring,complete OSB wrap,1/2 sheetrock throughout. We found a great deal on alot model that were financing with 2.5 acres,I loved the 76H2 floorplan,and as far am Im concerned PH is one of the best built on the market...keep us posted.

[aaron]

I WORK FOR SOLITAIRE & I ASSURE YOU WE ARE NOT GOING BANKRUPT. I ALSO OWN A SOLITAIRE AND I THINK YOU WILL BE HARD PRESSED TO FIND A BETTER QUALITY HOME.

[Terry]

Solitaire isn't constructed like PalmHarbor Homes. PalmHarbor Homes are manufactured in MASS PRODUCED and the quality construction isn't there. Soitarie constructions their's homes the old fashion way and don't rush their homes like other companies do. Take a look at their floors, Does PH put gidwork in their floor and ceilings and do they wrap plywood over the exterior side of their homes? I don't think so at all! I don't think they are in the bankrupcy also. They are a family owned business and debt FREE COMPANY!

[jgn]

Well I don't work for Solitaire or any MH company but I agree that Solitaire is one of the best values on the market. They are a no nonsense company to deal with, don't play the finance and insurance game and will give you access to look at their homes and a price without hassle. You don't have to look at a prepared sales presentation before you look at the homes. All I was asked is what size home are you looking for, they pointed them out gave us the keys and said take your time and look at any home you want. They have an upgrade package that is a fixed price and their construction is solid. From what I understand they wait till they have several of the same model on order than make several of that model in one run. That makes the construction more efficient and fewer mistakes.
On the negative side is they do not offer many modifications to their plans. Maybe add a patio door or window but it's pretty much what you see is what you get and their warranty is one year but from owners they actually fix things in that year instead of putting them off till you do it yourself.
PH builds a nice looking home, decent construction with a myriad of upgrades but I never feel comfortable with their pitch and add on push and they are on the higher end price wise.

[donna]

I truly thank you all for the help. Now we have to make up our mind.

[rmurray]

The hard part...Good Luck

[bobby]

"Does PH put gidwork in their floor and ceilings and do they wrap plywood over the exterior side of their homes?"

Yes...my PH does have a full OSB wrap around the exterior.

[Terry]

GO CHECK OUT THE FACTORY FOR YOUSELF AND SEE HOW A SOLITAIRE IS CONSTRUCTED. THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS OVER 50 YEARS AND STILL USE THE SAME CONSTRUCTION METHOD SINCE THEY STARTED BUILDING QUALITY HOMES.

[bobby]

Ok......but Terry, you act as if its the ONLY quality home out there, there are others