You may have heard that modular homes can save you money and time, and it's true. Modularly constructed homes are not only safer but are built extremely quickly when compared to traditional housing. In some instances, your house can be finished in only a few weeks or months, but how does it begin? Here is a guide to modular home construction.
Hiring a General Contractor
Finding a good general contractor is difficult for traditional homes and it can be even tougher for modular homes. You need to find a general contractor who has experience in building modular homes. When it comes to price, you want someone who is going to cost a little more. Your average base model for a prefabricated home should be at least $50 per square foot. Any less and you'll receive an inferior product. Requesting bids are free, so request a few and compare them. Which one looks like a better deal to you? Are the contractors receptive to your needs? This method is a good way to weed out the money hungry contractors that are there to make a profit and nothing else.
Choosing a Build
There are plenty of different builds that you can choose from when it comes to modular homes. Some common styles include Cape Cod, modern, and ranch. These titles directly refer to the style of the home, and it doesn't mean that every modular house of this type will look the same. One ranch style will look very different from another, and modern styles vary even greater. Different builds cost different amounts, so be sure to research which type you want to choose before purchasing.
Picking Your Customizations
Modular homes are as customizable as traditional homes. Not only can you choose your countertops, but you can also include features such as solar panels, a garage, and a porch. Keep in mind that adding these customizations will increase the price of your modular home. Request a quote from the manufacturer to determine the price of each add-on before including them on your home. If you decide later that you want some of these features, you can request to have them built at a later date.
Preparing Your Land
One of the most expensive portions of modular home owning is the price of land. Picking the precise area is important because an uneven plot will need leveling before utilities can be installed. Property prices vary widely from state to state and even county to county. Only you and a real estate agent can determine the cost of the property to place your modular home. A good real estate agent can assist you in finding the proper plot for your land.
