First time home buyer considering a Modular.

[Concerned Consumer]

I'm a first time home buyer and was originally considering going with a stick built developer like Dominion, M/I Homes, or Rockford builders(they all build in Ohio). However, I've recently run across a relatively inexpensive lot which would allow us to have a modular built on it. I have a lot of concerns regarding the quality of the homes, the resale value, FHA financing, warranties, upgrades, etc, etc, etc. I could really use some advice from other homeowners on their experiences, possible traps and things that I might need to be wary of... Any information would be extremely helpful. If anyone has resold their original modular, I would love to hear about any issues that might have arisen from that.
Thank you much!!!
Josh

[Karl]

If you are considering a modular in the midwest (which it looks as if you are), I would recommend checking out the websites of these companies: www.cresthomes.com, www.allamericanhomes.com, and www.contempri.com. These three firms (Crest, All American, and Contempri) build modular homes of varied floor plans and prices, and all seem to be of high quality. My brother owns an All-American cape cod here in Illinois and his experience thus far has been all positive. A couple of other companies are Patriot (www.patriothomes.com) and ritz-craft (unsure of web address).

[Debbie]

I also live in Illinois. I have seen All American homes advertised here and from the exterior pictures of the homes they look like very nice homes. If I were able to purchase an inexpensive lot, I certainly would check them out. This is a much more inexpensive way to get a nice house on your lot as opposed to going stick built. In fact, I don't think I would even go stick built.

As far as Patriot homes go, definitely check them out as well. Their website has some great exterior and interior pictures of some of their models. I am about to close on a manufactured home of theirs and though I have not lived in it yet, I have been in it several times since it has been set up. It is a very nice home and the quality appears to be there.

[Sherri]

I would recommend checking with area gov. offices for someone familiar with building codes and how they are enforced. We purchased a Fuqua modular built in Boonville, Missouri for delivery to our site in Iowa. In Missouri, the manufacturer is responsible for any problems, including problems with set-up, regardless of who the retailer was. In Iowa however, Fuqua is attempting to distance themselves from the retailer and the installation problems because Iowa's laws are different. We have been unable to locate the government official in Iowa who is responsible for enforcing Iowa's Building Code rules for modular homes, which has left us without a home almost 1 year after paying for one. Our experience is only 1 out of many, but you are welcome to check out the details at www.fuquabuyerbeware.com. Hope this helps.