mobile home on a sunny day during summer
April 21, 2022

Debunking Common Mobile Home Myths

These days, more Americans than ever are choosing mobile homes. It’s a clear choice for many families; buying a mobile home saves hundreds of thousands of dollars, allows for customization, and is quicker and more efficient than constructing a stick-built home. 

That said, there are still many misconceptions about mobile homes. This is unfortunate because many people don’t realize that their dream home could become a reality sooner than they think. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Susceptible to Damage 

You may have heard that mobile homes are easily damaged or poorly constructed. This misconception comes from homes that were manufactured before 1976. This is when the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) created safety guidelines for mobile homes. These guidelines were increased in 1994 and 1999, leading to even stricter guidelines. Mobile homes built before 1976 may have been easily damaged, but new manufactured homes are constructed according to stringent safety standards. When built to HUD code, mobile homes are durable and structurally sound. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Only for Short-Term Housing

This myth is also rooted in the ‘70s before HUD standards for mobile homes. Newer homes built to these standards use the same quality materials used to construct stick-built homes. Mobile homes can reliably last for decades, particularly with proper maintenance. According to the HUD, the average life expectancy of a mobile home is between 30 and 55 years. As innovations in the industry continue, we can expect to see that number rise exponentially over time.

MYTH: Mobile Homes All Look Alike

Some homebuyers are concerned that their new mobile home will look exactly like Tom’s house down the street. The truth is, mobile homes these days are custom-made and designed to reflect a diverse range of tastes. The similar floor plans and structures are no different than traditionally built houses in some neighborhoods. There are even luxury mobile homes available, with walk-in closets, hardwood flooring, wrap-around decks, and stone fireplaces. Your mobile home can be as unique as you are. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Vulnerable to Tornadoes 

This misconception is likely because mobile homes are more prevalent in the Midwest, where there are a lot of tornadoes. However, mobile homes these days are constructed to be as strong and durable as traditionally built homes. An adequately built manufactured home will be at no greater risk of tornado damage than stick-built homes. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes Do not Appreciate Value

Some people are under the impression that a mobile home is not a good investment because it will not appreciate. Whether your home will appreciate or depreciate is not influenced by whether it is traditionally built or manufactured. Appreciation is generally dependent on location, how well-maintained the home is, and the current supply and demand.

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Bad for the Environment

In the past, energy efficiency was not the priority of mobile home manufacturers, but that is certainly not the case today. These days, energy efficiency is a top priority for mobile home manufacturers. They use energy-efficient lighting, windows, appliances, and sustainable and recycled materials during the construction process. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Difficult to Finance

Mobile homes were purchased as personal property in the past, which made it more challenging to obtain a loan. Today, financing a mobile home is significantly more accessible because they are considered real estate. There are many different methods of financing a mobile home, which we have outlined on our Financing Options page. If you have any questions, we would be happy to talk them out with you. Feel free to reach out to one of our Housing Consultants for more support. 

MYTH: Mobile Homes are Only for Low-Income Families

First of all, there is nothing wrong with low-income families investing in their dream home. We want to help all families find affordable housing, regardless of income. On top of that, just because mobile homes are usually more affordable doesn’t mean that people from all walks of life can’t benefit from them. Luxury mobile homes are becoming more and more common, which can come with various price tags. Regardless of your specific budget, there is a mobile home for you. 

If you are curious to learn more about the mobile home buying process, we would be happy to help you.

As the first online mobile home dealership, you can find your dream home without leaving your living room! If you would rather meet in person, come down to one of our physical locations in San Antonio or Odessa.

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