Panelized Kit Homes

13 years ago

Hi, everyone. I'm new here, seeking advice. I'm in the very early stages of building my dream home. I've already spent money drawing out plans although not completed yet with a panelized kit home company I was planning to use. Since I haven't signed a contract yet, I can still back out of it. What are everyone's thoughts of panelized kit homes? I got really interested in them after reading a Yahoo article last year. I'm a professional working woman, putting up to 50 hours a week and therefore wouldn't be able to do much. I figured with a panelized kit home, I can save on the labor cost because of the decreased time. However, I've been reading nightmare posts about missing parts, parts not fitting correctly, etc, etc, that I'm really afraid of going to this route. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

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Comments (5)

joyce_6333
13 years ago
My DD and SIL built a panelized home several years ago. Have to be honest and say I'm not impressed. First of all, the neighbors were furious, and the home seems like a glorified mobile home to me. Low end EVERYTHING, including doors, trim, cabinets, appliances, etc. Then they had to hire someone to do the foundation, garage, drywall patching, and all mechanical. I'm sure they could have built a home for the same, or less, money. That said, they are still happy with the home. This is just my opinion.

I'm sure all panelized companies are not the same, this is just their experience.
rabbit03
13 years ago
I think that the panelized home builders run from low-end to high-end. Some of the sites I've looked at look amazing, like Connor Homes. Others, do in fact look like trailer homes. I think it's all about what you want to spend. Nothing can beat research like visiting the manufacturer and builder, asking for a list of references and visiting their homes,(if possible), and checking them out online through searches and the BBB.

Where are you located NSAPH?
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Brian_Knight
13 years ago
To me, there is a big difference between Panelized and Kit. Panelized can mean all sorts of things; SIPS, Pre-cast concrete Panels (Superior Walls), Bensonwood panels. Many lumber companies panelize almost any plan with typical stick framing. Panel companies can panelize almost any set of plans.

I think Kits tend to be lower end as a whole although there are certainly good products out there. Most log homes are done with as kits. Other names for kits include factory, and modular.

Iam a big fan of panelization. Less so with kits. Researching a potential maker and speaking with past customers is critical.
auroraborelis
13 years ago
Can panelizing a regular home be cost effective in comparison to regular framing?
sweet.reverie
13 years ago
We are doing a panel home- it is not trailer like. We custom designed the whole thing. The pre made walls will arrive with the windows in next month. Our builder explained that is does save money but also saves waste.

I will link to our builder below for more info.

Here is a link that might be useful: Our Panel Builder