Modular homes are starting to get more popular, they tend to be a lot cheaper than traditional houses, and they can be easily built. With that being said not a lot of counties look upon modular homes favorably. The good news is that as long as you find a plot of land that is zoned as residential you should not have any problems placing a modular home.
When buying land for a modular home make sure that the land has residential zoning, you can not place a modular home on agricultural land. Once you have found a nice plot of land ask the local county if they will in fact allow you to build a modular home, what is the minimum size restriction, and if the house needs a permanent foundation or not. The plot of land should have access to utilities, if it doesn’t make sure to calculate how much they will cost you.
Buying land for a traditional house and a modular one is not that different, in fact, as long as the land has residential or mixed use zoning you should be able to build or assemble a modular house. Although you have to be really careful when searching for land for a modular home, the simple fact that the zoning is residential doesn’t mean that the local county will actually allow you to live in a modular house.
In some areas of the country, modular houses are looked upon with suspicion, especially if there is a HOA present. No matter where you find land for your modular house, make sure that you do your own diligence, as there will be some extra rules and restrictions when it comes to modular housing. If you want to buy land for a tiny house, then check out my recent article Buying Land For Tiny House ( Top 6 Things To Know ).
Buying Land For Modular Home
When it comes to buying land for a modular home, there are a few important factors to consider that I have found helpful in my experience. Firstly, I focus on finding land that is suitable for modular construction, taking into account factors such as zoning regulations, building codes, and any specific requirements for modular homes in the area. I also consider the location and surroundings, ensuring that the land meets my lifestyle needs and preferences. Access to utilities, such as water, electricity, and sewage systems, is another crucial aspect to evaluate.
Engaging the services of a real estate agent or land specialist who is knowledgeable about modular home construction can provide valuable guidance throughout the buying process. Additionally, I conduct a thorough assessment of the land, considering its topography, soil quality, and any potential challenges that may arise during the installation of the modular home. Finally, I explore financing options that are specifically tailored for modular home purchases, as traditional mortgage options may have limitations.
Know The Difference Between Modular And Manufactured Homes
A lot of people tend to think that modular and manufactured homes are the same, which in theory is true but they have to abide by different standards. Manufactured homes have to comply with the HUD code which is also known as the housing and urban development code. This HUD code is the national standard, so no matter in which state you want to place your manufactured house it will have to abide by the HUD code.
Modular homes on the other hand are not subject to the HUD code, instead, they will have to abide by the state code. When it comes to assembly, manufactured homes tend to come in large pieces, which makes them extremely easy to assemble. Modular homes on the other hand come in smaller pieces, and it takes somewhat longer to assemble them. If you want to buy land in another state then check out my recent article How To Buy Land In Another State ( In 8 Easy Steps ).
Buy Land With Residential Zoning For Modular Homes
It is extremely important to buy land that has residential zoning if you want to build a modular home. Way too many people think that they can just plop down one of these houses on any land they find, only to end up with massive fines or in the worst case demolition. After you have found a nice plot of land that has residential zoning make sure to give a call to the local county and info yourself if you can build a modular home on that particular plot of land.
Modular Home Minimum Size Requirements
A lot of counties will have a minimum size requirement when it comes to housing, to make your life a lot easier make sure to find the land for the modular home and then buy the modular home. If you have already ordered a modular home and you are just now looking for a pilot of land, you might face problems like the home doesn’t have the minimum size requirement. This will usually mean that you will have to find land in another county.
Does The Modular Home Require A Permanent Foundation Or Not
If the modular home requires a permanent foundation or not can only be answered by the local county. Whether you want your modular home to be on a permanent foundation or not, make sure to ask the local county officials first.
Have Utilities To The Land For The Modular Home
You can not build a modular home without utilities, as most counties will simply not allow it, although there are some exceptions. If the plot of land doesn’t have any nearby access to utilities, then you will spend a lot of money to get all the utilities to the plot of land. In addition to this, if the land is zoned residential, but doesn’t have any nearby utilities, the local county might not even issue a building permit. In short, make sure that the plot of land has access to utilities. If you want to buy land online then check out my recent article How To Buy Land Online ( Top 10 Tips ).
Size And Shape Of The Land For Modular Homes
Most people when it comes to modular houses tend to buy a rather small plot of land, for the most part, this is a good idea. However, you need to know that the modular home has to be a certain distance from the perimeter of the land. As for what this actual distance has to be, depends on the local county so you will have to give them a call.
Road Access For Modular Homes
Ideally, the plot of land for the modular house should have road access, in certain cases, the road access will be through somebody else’s property which is not ideal. In addition to this, you will also have to think if the modular home can be transported to the location, and this mostly depends on the road access. Transporting a modular home can get expensive, and you will pay a lot more if the road access tends to be difficult.
Financing Land For Modular Homes
Ideally, you should have the money to pay for the entire plot of land, however, if this is not the case you still have a couple of options. You can get a bank loan to buy the plot of land, but how easy or direfully it will be, depends on the bank, some banks do not really like lending money for vacant land. Another option will be owner financing, which a lot of people tend to use, although as with everything in life it has its fair share of pros and cons.
Key Takeaways
- Before purchasing land for a modular home, ensure that the property is suitable for modular construction. Factors to consider include soil conditions, access to utilities, zoning regulations, and any restrictions specific to modular homes. Conduct a thorough site assessment or consult with professionals to determine the land’s suitability for modular construction.
- Familiarize yourself with local regulations, permits, and building codes related to modular homes. Different areas may have specific requirements for modular home installation, foundation types, setbacks, and design standards. It’s essential to understand and comply with these regulations to avoid any legal or logistical complications during the purchasing and construction process.
- Evaluate the location of the land in terms of proximity to amenities, services, transportation, and other factors important to you. Additionally, assess the availability of essential utilities such as water, electricity, sewage, and internet access. Consider whether the land meets your desired criteria for convenience, accessibility, and lifestyle preferences.
