HUD Definition for a Manufactured Home

The HUD definition for a manufactured home is now regarded as the correct term to describe the "mobile" or "trailer" home of the past. This change in definition came to the industry in the late-1980s and early-1990s, as the architecture of many manufactured homes changed to include vaulted ceilings and covered porches. The term "mobile home" was retired because it no longer described the types of homes being manufactured. Today's manufactured homes offer much more diverse options in features and design.

Identification

HUD code manufactured homes are identified by one distinct requirement. The home must have a steel undercarriage that is used for transportation to the homeowner's land lot. The wheels on the undercarriage are removed, and the home is placed with the undercarriage intact on cinder blocks or steel piers.

Types

Manufactured homes can come in many different types-some more common than others. There are manufactured homes available in a single section, double sections, three and four sections and rarely two-story sections. Two-story sections are produced but are rare and are not available in most states.

Features

Manufactured homes of today feature many amenities not available in the "mobile homes" of the past. With manufactured home industry advances, many features that were not possible in the past are now possible. These include fireplaces, dining rooms with vaulted ceilings, skylights, state-of-the-art appliances and even hardwood floors.

Considerations

Home buyers that own a plot of land with utilities and with no restriction regarding manufactured homes are in the ideal position to consider this housing option. Also, individuals who in the future may want to change the locality of their residence, would be a good fit. Home buyers who are purchasing a new home with future plans of using the home as an investment should be advised that the re-sale value of manufactured homes are not as high as a traditionally constructed home.

Benefits

The benefits of a manufactured home include cost, continued mobility and options available. The cost of a manufactured home remains much more economical than traditionally built homes. The average cost per square foot is from $35 to $65. Since the undercarriage remains intact through the life of the home, the wheels can be reattached moving the home to another location if desired. Manufactured homes of today offer much more quality and updated designs than ever before.