What area do you consider "central"?

ACME II homes in Homosassa FL

There was another company that I really liked that was more north I think and was modular, however he had > 6 month waiting time to even get started on new projects.

Orlando area. Thanks.

Hi Shell,

We always say the dealer is more important than the brand. This is because the dealer is the person responsible for getting your home to your site (after properly preparing the site), setting up your home properly on a foundation or piers, correctly hooking up water, sewer or septic, electricity, and if it's a double wide, ensuring the "marriage" of the two halves is (literally) seamless. The dealer will also be the person responsible for any repairs or problems during the warranty period (typically one year). The dealer may or may not help you get financing. Needless to say, the dealer can make your experience either heaven or hell.

All MHs must be built at least to HUD specifications. Obviously , there are cheaper and more expensive MHs, and a wide price range of ~ $25,000 -$300,00 and up. One manufacturer may make different MHs spanning this price range. What you buy will be based on your finances. But at least you will know there are minimum HUD specs. Many states have much stricter codes than the HUD minimum. If there is a difference between HUD and state requirements, the stricter one must be followed.

Another thing we tell prospective buyers is to spend your money on the "invisible" upgrades, rather than the "visible" ones. In other words, before you spring for upgraded appliances, a jetted tub, nicer carpet, etc., get upgraded insulation, a pitched roof with overhang and gutters, better insulated windows, an upgraded electrical panel, properly spaced and sized studs, etc. You can always get the tub, flooring, and the stainless steel appliances later. But it would be much more expensive to get insulation and a better roof later. I know this to be true because I'm in the process of getting these things done in my own MH.

The one manufacturer I would avoid at any cost is Clayton Homes and all of their subsidiary companies. If you haven't read the Warrien Buffet article in the Seattle Times, there's a link on the thread "I found a couple of good resources," or you can google it.

We also recommend you take the time to do your due diligence and research MHs and MH living all you can, starting with the posts in this forum. I'm a researcher by profession, and I can tell you that I learned more about MHs by reading through every thread on this forum than all my other research combined. This is because this forum is built by actual people in actual MHs. They KNOW because they live it.

One last piece of advice: trust your gut. When you start talking to dealers, if they seem slippery, too smooth, or whatever, trust your gut. If you see a red flag, hear an alarm bell, anything...trust your gut. And check the BBB, get references from previous buyers, etc.

There are many, many wonderful advantages in buying and living in a manufactured home. I haven't regretted my decision once. Best of luck to you! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! :-)

Sincerely,

Debbie

The other company I was impressed with is also modular. Southern Structures in Ocala.

Thanks guys.