Manufactured Homes for Sale: What You Should Inspect Before Your Purchase

Posted: Apr 18, 2013
Author: 1st Choice Home Centers

You’re considering a new home purchase. You’ve been looking at manufactured homes for sale at various local companies, but do you really know what you’re getting into?  There are many different aspects to consider when purchasing a manufactured home, and the first step to a successful purchase is to understand every aspect of your new home before you purchase it. 

After you figure out what you can afford and decide how much home you actually need, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty.  Take a look at the walls of the structure first, and make sure that the studs are 16” apart, preferably with 2” x 6” lumber and a height of at least 7.5 feet.  Taller walls let you use standard-height doorways and wider studs allow for more insulation in the walls.

In regards to the walls of your manufactured home, choosing vinyl for the exterior siding makes more sense than metal or board for that properly finished look.  Examine all plumbing and make sure there’s a shut off valve for each plumbing fixture as well, and be aware of where the main shut-off valve is located.

Consider upgrading to electrical service greater than 100 amps if it doesn’t already come standard with your manufactured home and that all outlets have proper working grounding circuits.

Finally, be sure your roof hangs over the edge of the house and that it is also properly ventilated, with adequate attic venting in place.  Try to avoid metal roofs, if possible, and go for a properly shingled one to allow the attic to breathe and prevent moisture buildup.