LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! Are Modular Homes Better Than Stick Built? ( WATCH 👀 How "Modular Home Companies Are Lying! \ua-cam.com/video/YSayVjWhmvA/v-deo.html)
@KristinaSmallhorn I agree that modular is now better. I used to work at a modular home factory, and I will tell you that they have come a long way in 30 years. With the issues they mention, plus the problem with so many new home builders being scam artists, it is no surprise that the modular builders decided to expand their business to better quality at a lower price, while offering more styles and options.
Yes. I actually wanted a plain 'ol double wide on my own 1/2 acre or so when I bought my current home. Guess what? Anywhere that's allowed those lots go for a premium and they don't come up very often. Very high demand. Against my better judgement I bought another stick built. And yes, regretting it. My old 2002 1200sf double wide cost no more than $50 in utilities. 1400 sf of stick built climbs North of $150 all the time. The fact that you almost can't get a lot tells you a lot.
I’ve been in the construction industry for thirty years…. I can assure you, my next home WILL BE a modular home. The fact that building materials are not sitting on a job site - exposed to the elements for days, weeks, months on end during traditional build is reason enough for me. These homes are PROTECTED from the rain during the build - reducing the chance of mold and mildew that might be lurking in your brand new home - behind the drywall…before you ever move in. Modular for me Baby!
Yes. Completely dependent on the site and builder. Soooo many things can go wrong. My dad was a foreman and "knew" who to use. None of them were fast but they ALL did great jobs. As an example I remember to this day (and I was 14 when he built it in the early 90s) the dry wallers stops what they were doing and asked "who the h&ll framed this cause even the closets are PERFECTLY square , exactly on measurement, and plum , etc.😅 They were dumbfounded.. as they should have been. Dude was a perfectionist. Took longer than most ( and my dad knew this) and many didn't like to use because he took longer but he knew WHY. And he was ok with that. And he was reasonable on price too.. super old school dude.
And who are your subs? LOL. Are they even half sober? I had 3 houses behind me that sat for 8 months wrapped in Tyvek. Eventually that wrap was flapping in the breeze as weather took it's toll. I wouldn't have wanted to buy any of them.
@@markw999 Lol?at my comment? Can you even READ? Apparently NOT because I said I’d take modular over site built homes hands down….and TYVEK is absolute third rate…if I were building conventionally I’d use either a fluid applied or self adhered moisture barrier or AVB. Before you make a snide remark you should actually read the comment before hitting send lest you appear to be a fool. 🤡
@@bch5513 The quality of your Dads builds are sadly few and far between. You are right to be very proud of your Dads work…it’s a rarity anymore. My primary concern is the fact that lumber and many other building materials are oftentimes sitting exposed - uncovered - in rainy weather for long periods of time. Then, partially dry framing is quickly covered with drywall on the interior, or inferior house wraps which trap the moisture in the wood. Everything looks lovely and new….until the mold appears. And it eventually does.
I've known this for years. I used to work for a company that builds modular buildings in Texas. I was sold when I saw the framing. The homes are built on a jig so every module is square and plum: your don't see a few carpenters measuring lumber and cutting one by one. Every piece of lumber is cut to the correct size before the build starts. Electrical, sheet rock, roofs use the same process. This system is the same way ships are built, completely assembled modules shipped and put together on site: built better, faster, less expensive and way better quality.
They do a lot of work at the factory before the house arrives. You can hear the pride and enthusiasm in this man's voice about the homes he is producing. I like that. I am perfectly happy in my manufactured home I bought in 2022. It is on 3 acres in the country and it is nicer than any rental I ever lived in. I am currently creating a rose garden in the front complete with walkway and large stone birdbath. Tall trees offer shade and beauty around the house and there is a large vegetable garden in the back.♥
That big modular looks like a Sears and Roebuck or Montgomery Ward home. I gutted one of those and rehabbed it. Great house that withstood unbelievable neglect.
@@aerohard windows are indeed a limitation for modular. Upvc windows are ok because relatively flexible BUT if you use more rigid frames like aluminum or fiber glass pultruted frames you have a problem and some windows will likely fail during transportation. That means you might need to install upgraded windows on site
@@maurozammarano6651 In general Modulars actually have about 1/3 more wood than a traditional stick built home. This is because of course they have to be picked up by a crane! I build houses with triple wide full height glass doors. It's amazing what engineers can achieve nowadays to provide structural rigidity.
@@lorimcquinn3966 Primarily along the marriage walls where modules meet together. Each module has to be structurally built as an individual unit. Otherwise it wouldn't be feasible to pick it up with a crane. Therefore there's wayyy more wood at these areas than you would see in a stick built home. It's also why a stick built would fall apart if you picked it up with a crane.
The stick built industry has blocked Modular and manufactured homes for years, high mortgage rates and telling people that they are not as sturdy… we have the technology and advanced products to build better structures for a lot less cost… I am so impressed my retirement home will be modular for sure.. thanks for the information…
Building an 800sqft right now. Already starting on the base structure early. Just waiting for the final stamped plans based on my design and the permit process starts. Using all metal framing. Flat roof and closed cell foam insulation. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen and living space. 5 Ton MrCool central mini split system. On custom piers 2 feet above grade. Total estimated cost: $40,000. Yes, total.
I love to watch "that" inspector as he calls out and shows the code and manufacturer violations that builders are suing him for pointing out. That said...I wonder what the books have to say about modular and whether the installers are doing any better job.
Additional thought here. Lets say for arguments sake, that its the same level of mistakes. Thats often minor mistakes on a 30k home compared to spending millions on a home and having cracked tiles, window frames, roof coverings - Granted AZ has those ceramic? tiles while other states have the more common shingles. And i'll own that 30k home with 3k square feet in no time compared to the cost of a current 3000 sq foot home built old fashion way
Update: We are looking at buildling in Mid Tennessee.... Builder is on Pennsalvania... Sales company is based in New York state! Find the right sales outlet, the right builder.... We are blessed that we also have a custom precast basement builder locally! All tied in together!!! 5 star
I have to applaud this video and the reason is when I was a PO in LVNV I had to go to one of these factories to keep the peace between two owners that were having trouble. I was given an opportunity to watch how they build these homes I was so impressed wow!. Now I’ve done a lot of building but after seeing these built really made a change in my mind about modular homes. I would buy one in a heartbeat. Thank you.
I have been researching modular homes for almost 3 years now. After watching your videos in comparing stick-built modular. Modular homes are built then a conventional stick built home. The fact that the most modular home company will do almost 90% of the work for you. From obtaining the permits to final cleanup. I am very proud and excited to say that this fall we will be purchasing a modular home. There are so many benefits to a modular home that is too big to list here. Just the fact that the house is built so energy efficient that it will take very little to heat or cool to home. And the fact that you can basically build the house anyway you like it. Looking forward to starting the build of my retirement home.
Our burned just prior to covid. We made the decision to replace it with a modular. One payment covered everything except the final electrical hook up. The people were great and we have the perfect home for us. I've been all around this house for different reason from add on plumbing to some external electric work. It's a great product. We're very happy.
I love that you are being pro-active about affordable homes. Unfortunately I'm beyond being able to buy a new home, but there are lots of younger people trying to start families and looking where to raise them and I appreciate this information being available to them. Thanks for what you do and best wishes to you.
Appraiser here. Lots of these in rural Northern Michigan. They're not only built to local code, but also to be strong enough to be driven down the road. Just did an appraisal on a two-story build. Gorgeous. Didn't need inspections every few months to get disbursement. There was a site inspection and one done subject to completion, and then the final 1004D three weeks later. So much less headache for the buyer.
We built a modular home this last year. No problems with financing, but found out our insurance company, Progressive, would not cover a modular home. Had to find an independent broker to get home owners insurance.
@@robertlemaster156 they couldn’t give me a reason. They started the taking my info, and when I first mentioned modular, the guy stopped and said they don’t cover modular. I explained that I didn’t mean mobile (trailer) home, he knew what I meant and said progressive doesn’t cover those for some reason. He advised me to call an independent broker to get coverage.
@@robertlemaster156 Seem very odd to me also because a Modular home is a stick built done in a controlled environment. This is not a Trailer/mobile home.
Hi Kristina, I have been wanting a Modular home since I saw my friend built a modular home in Vermont 15 years ago. Now that you have shared this great company, and this will be a reality in the near future! Thanks for constantly educating and updating us with the latest products in the real estate world.
As a builder I visited a modular home factory and I was impressed by what I saw. It wasn't for me in my type of home builds but for a standard home I agree it's cool. I build multi million $$ homes and they couldn't build my custom design homes. But I do use panelized and save a lot on wasted materials because it's framed in a factory.
It gets worse during construction booms. Those trades aren't something you pick up in a few days of training, believe it or not. The kids beating nails during construction booms were often flipping burgers last week. I had to re-hang every door in my first stick built house and clean the vents. The goofballs building it apparently thought the holes in the floor were for trash. LOL.
@@TheClubbinatorI was at Home Depot today and was absolutely SHOCKED to see the massive amount of moldy wood they are trying to sell. It was crazy. I am extremely sensitive to mold and know within a few minutes of being in a space or home. Having a mobile or manufactured home built in a factory eliminates that. They won’t build with moldy wood to begin with, and obviously no rain on materials
Great video, Kristina!!! Loving our modular home that was built in 2001, but we bought in 2022. Very solid construction, but I can see that presently that they are built even better!
14:50 It made me giggle to see how content the dog in your lap was! 11:55 I really appreciate his explanation about being either Stick Built Code or the "HUD code" intended for mobile products Personally, as things are right now in USA, if I had to go new, I'd have much more faith in a true modular than going for a new stick built.
This was a great video. Very educational. Especially the part about FEMA and City Codes having to be approved and confirmed before building the home. Also the EVR system pricing and why it is needed.
I love modular home building. Working in traditional construction you're subject to weather stoppages and here in the south, the heat slows you down in the summer. A friend's backyard developed a fairly large sinkhole. The house is 20 years old. I had a feeling it was where they dumped construction debris. We got a backhoe and dug it up. All the wood waste had rotted away leaving some bricks, cinderblocks, and other debris. We cleaned it out, filled it in, and put down some grass seed.
My wife and I live in a 3,400sq ft modular home and absolutely love it. 2x6 construction outside walls allow great insulation and a very energy efficient home. I would suggest it to anyone thinking of building. You won’t be disappointed.
@@jhardy0005 we are the second owners. We bought the house on 3 acres of property with a 1/4 acre pond in 2005 for 197,000 in southern Michigan. Currently assessed value is 325,000. Hope this helps. The floor plans that are available are a strong selling point.
I concur Kristina, modular homes are the real deal! As a soon to be Zennihome owner (Permits are in the oven as we speak) the land is ready, house is ready, and the GC is ready, just waiting for those darn pesky permits lol. I've had the pleasure of seeing the build process firsthand.
Our modular is being built as we speak. Hurricane Ian destroyed our 50 year old stick built home in Port Charlotte…like so many others. We live in Canada and this was our vacation home. We chose modular for a number of reasons: 1) We can’t be on site to keep contractors on track 2) Build time is much faster 3) Our builder (Jacobsen) makes many homes for the hurricane prone Florida Keys, so the wind rating is higher than stick built coding 4) the builder takes care of all permits etc. Looking forward to spending winters in our new vacation home! Thanks Kristina for this great video!
Great Video, everything is absolutely correct. I built a modular home with Westchester Modular in 2002, one of the best decisions ever. Over 22 years later, and still a very satisfied owner.
My home is an modular house, it was rough finding insurance here in TN. Most insurance companies wouldn't cover it because most basically claim it as a mobile home.
I wonder why? We've had Allstate homeowner's insurance for years on our 1999 doublewide on a full foundation AND we later installed a woodstove. I called them first, and they were fine with it.
YES!!! You make me so excited about modular homes! I didnt even know they were a thing before watching your videos but I am DEFINETLY going to look for one when im ready to buy.
As a builder myself, modular homes are great in some situations, but not all. The biggest issue is quality of build and materials and biggest factor in that is the builder, factory or stuck built. I’ve seen excellent versions of factory and stick built. Also seen horrible versions of both. Ultimately builders tend to have an identity of sorts in method and materials. I won’t use that “pink insulation” rodents love to live in it and it shrinks overtime so I use rockwool generally even over spray foam. But I like how strong the builder in the video is framing the homes using standard lumber where I use LVL. Both are fine but have different ways of achieving similar goals. Find a good builder interview and discuss a lot of options go with what suits your situation and needs. Also who you think will pickup the phone if there is a problem in the future.
Thank you so much for doing this segment and explaining the difference between modular homes and mobile homes. My son is looking into purchasing a mobile home. I will forward your segment to watch.
We're waiting on our Modular to be built now. Full basement, cape and almost 2000 SF on main floor. Granite, tile, etc... is all being installed with 2 by 6 exterior walls. We can't wait to go see it in factory next month as it's being finished.
Definitely prefer pre-built over stick built for a lot of reasons. The thing that doesn't make sense to me is if they're built more efficiently (less waste) and in less time (less labour costs), why are they not significantly cheaper than a regular build?
Christina I am getting ready to take my Real Estate classes in Missouri and Kansas. My all out focus will be Modular Homes. Did I mention I plan on buying a modular home myself. Stay blessed
I worked for a factory in middle berry IN that made modular cape cod style homes with something like 15 foot living room ceilings with an open hallway on the second floor that looked down at the living room. It was amazing. Clayton homes might have been the name
You have a new subscriber! Another advantage to modular construction is the consistency in the quality because they are well-paid employees in a factory. You have the same people building the homes all the time, unlike a regular contractor who may have to bring in different subcontractors depending on their availability and rely on the subcontractors to have consistency with their tradesmen.
While not exactly a modular, our 66 year old home is a National pre-fab. Factory built wall panels erected on a site built floor platform. The whole subdivision is made up of these, about evenly split between full basements like ours, crawl spaces, and slab-on-grade construction. Ours has been improved several times, most notably by the addition of fourth bedroom with en-suite bath and a remodel of the kitchen to improve the layout and get rid of the original metal cabinetry. Other improvements include thermally efficient windows and residing with vinyl. We aren’t the original owners, but we have been here 43 years and I can tell you the basic structure is just as sound as the day the builder handed over the keys in 1958.
When I worked at the Bendix Research center, I worked closely with Bendix Home Systems. The company wanted to see how different a modular home was from a well built Mobile Home. The huge difference is basically the same as stick build but done with a ton more precision. There was a Michigan company building Modular. We were able to witness a home being "built" for a customer. They showed up with the modules and three days later the home was ready to move in. And just like this video the home was not identifiable as a "bunch of boxes". This was in 1974.
Love the video! Love the inside look at the manufacturing process. Would love to see a similar video on mobile/manufactured homes that have to be built to H.U.D. code too. A lot of people think all manufactured homes are 1970s "trailers".
I know framers don’t always make sure all the studs are secure. I’ve had about 1/3 the studs in the wall have 1 or less nails in them…. My next house will be a modular house for sure
We bought a modular home and we are watching this! Omg ours is a Fleetwood and I will never go through them. So many things you are showing that someone didn't check off and ours is only 20 years old. Man I just want a new one.
Back in 1996 my wife and I had a 1500 sq ft modular home built by Wausau Homes in WI. We have lived in it ever since and have had no issues with anything. Of course we've done normal maintenance and replaced the shingles once since then but the house itself has been quality built and energy efficient as well. Not as efficient as nowadays mind you but still very efficient. Also, the builder quoted us a price that he said was solid and actually even came out a little cheaper in the end! I would highly recommend modular homes to anyone!
Thank you for doing this video as an insurance agent in Northern California. I really want to write more modular and manufactured homes so I really need to focus on this more for both and this video is very helpful.😊
In 1996 I bought a modular and it was awesome. Huge rooms, very well made and I was able to get a larger home that I would have with a builder in a community. Very happy with my choice.
That was an interesting behind the scenes look at modular home construction. The homes you visited were too traditional, but I guess there are options.
I recently lived in a NC rural neighborhood. One of the homes was modular, on a large lot. Nice home, I'd call it middle/low price point. When we got ready to sell our traditional stick built house, and the comps were pulled, the modular home was $175k less on a similar lot. Just something to think about if you are moving into a mixed stick built/modular neighborhood. The wife and I are serious about finding somewhere to probably invest in one of these homes, as the costs here in Colorado for shoddily built homes that are essentially "builder basic" is astronomical. Think $700k for a $450k home. So....we are interested. Thanks for the content
hi I love this company I've been following you and discover that thus company is amazing and plan to build my house with them this upcoming year I wish the video was a little longer
As someone beginning to consider a future modular home- your message about the use of "modular" has been stretched too far and I often find myself frustrated that I wind up at a manufactured home site or tiny homes.
I’m just amazed, Christina Smallhorn. This is incredible. I’m actually thinking about. I think I’m gonna buy one of these when I’m able to hear probably not for a couple years, but I’m gonna start looking into this now. This is incredible. I can’t believe this you know I don’t understand why never thought of this.
Had plans for a 2500 sq foot single level ranch syle home. Couldn't find a builder,all booked up. We found only one, gave us a cost of $920, 000 dollars, and his plan had 2×4 walls. To ad insult, we had to pay him $800. 00 for the estimate. We did agree to this cost estimate, if we hired him it would have been discounted from the cost. Went modular, got a bigger, and much nicer home for a fraction. Plus, it had 2×6 exterior walls. This is my 2nd home I had built, having purchased my own land. Contractors are thieves, and prey on the desperate.
I would definitely consider buying a modular home if I knew of a good company where the land isn't overly expensive. Great information! Oh, wondering what the smallest modular homes might be? Maybe 600 or 700 sq. ft.?
This seems absolutely awesome ! But as with anything in life, there are pros and cons. I would really also like to know the cons in order to have a fair balance of assessing this product
Love the info. We built in the late 80s and were considering a modular home. I was currious about the construction of them compared to stick built. So we did the exact same thing. Toured a modular home manufacturer in PA. I was overly impressed. The only reason we didn't do with modular is price. At that time, our loan approval wouldn't have covered as much as a stick built for what we wanted. But I love them.
You also avoid dishonest contractors up charging you for everything like claiming that they will be using a superior grade of paint and then ordering "contractor's grade" at the paint store for example AND not wasting half the day/week running to the stores to purchase said items while they eat breakfast lunch and dinner on your time and juggle several jobs while they are supposed to be working on yours dragging out the completion time. I think the modular builders are far better and most are using thicker lumber than stick-built homes made of 2 x 4 wall studs vs 6" for modular. The only thing about this review that surprised me was that the flooring, lighting, switch plates, and countertops don't come already installed with just the seams between the units needing to be finished onsite. Modular companies I've visited install that stuff in the factory and deliver the units completed save for the seams. It seems to me that the way the builder shown in the video waits to install those things on-site is leading to more labor cost and time wasted to finish off the interior. I've seen videos of a jet plane engine being backed up to about 30 to 50 feet from to a mfg/modular home = tornado force winds and the only damage it sustained was a few shingles blew off.
Thank you for explaining the manufactured vs modular. I believe you are correct that the traditional builders have a benefit from people being confused. I would love to see a graphic showing the diff between the two kinds of builds. Thanks.
I checked out some websites selling modular homes. They seem great. My question is, how does one go about finding land with utility hookups and other necessities. Are there simple guidelines explaining how to do this?
My parents ranch was modular. Scandinavia builds this way with MDF. Every piece of tree is used. Vacuumed wood shavings generate new lumber and is stronger than natural board. There is a UA-cam video showing entire process.
One of the unspoken considerations we found was in flexibility. If you are like me, and prone to reconsidering decisions, then ponder the costs of working with an architect and the costs for updates, not to mention the delays in getting those changes approved and re-drawn. It's not a simple thing. With our modular home, changes were nearly instantaneous along with pricing updates (rare). We were able to have the home placed, onsite with waterproof walls 9 feet high in the basement, within weeks. And at a cost of $150 a square foot, ready for sub contractors to come in and finish as I desired. After "set day" we would have been able to pursue a Certificate of Occupancy within 60 days. Can't say enough about my experience with Buffalo Modular Homes.
Regarding the difference in the building codes used in modular vs. manufactured, how does the inspection and compliance to those codes work? Are there on-site inspectors at the manufacturing facilities? What is the relation of the third-party quality control to inspection authorities? Do the third-party quality control firms convey any sort of warranty, explicit or implied, or does that flow from the manufacturing facility or the assemblers? Stated code compliance of on-site construction varies from locality to locality, depending upon availability and scheduling of inspections. What mechanisms exist to provide a consistent, uniform code compliance in the manufactured facility? How is it not also impacted by the vagaries of inspection availability? Are the local code requirements of the installed location reflected in the build at the facility, which may be located in a different inspection area? The obvious solution is to "over-spec" all modules to achieve code compliance regardless of location. What does that do to the cost of construction of all modules? Depending on the eventual assembly site, the cost per square foot may be higher than a traditional, site-built structure. Has this issue been adjudicated by underwriters and mortgage originators? What are the historical valuations of these buildings versus traditional on-site constructed in terms of appreciation? How much data is available to support any such assertions, and where could I find it?
LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! Are Modular Homes Better Than Stick Built? ( WATCH 👀 How "Modular Home Companies Are Lying! \ua-cam.com/video/YSayVjWhmvA/v-deo.html)
Just watching @cyfyhomeinspections inspecting new construction, I would say yes.
@KristinaSmallhorn I agree that modular is now better. I used to work at a modular home factory, and I will tell you that they have come a long way in 30 years. With the issues they mention, plus the problem with so many new home builders being scam artists, it is no surprise that the modular builders decided to expand their business to better quality at a lower price, while offering more styles and options.
You need to design a home where (if) the roof, comes off, in a hurricane, IT'S NO PROBLEM.
No link to the home builder? Westchester ?
Yes. I actually wanted a plain 'ol double wide on my own 1/2 acre or so when I bought my current home. Guess what? Anywhere that's allowed those lots go for a premium and they don't come up very often. Very high demand. Against my better judgement I bought another stick built. And yes, regretting it. My old 2002 1200sf double wide cost no more than $50 in utilities. 1400 sf of stick built climbs North of $150 all the time. The fact that you almost can't get a lot tells you a lot.
You can see this business is driven by the passion this guy has for his product
I’ve been in the construction industry for thirty years…. I can assure you, my next home WILL BE a modular home. The fact that building materials are not sitting on a job site - exposed to the elements for days, weeks, months on end during traditional build is reason enough for me. These homes are PROTECTED from the rain during the build - reducing the chance of mold and mildew that might be lurking in your brand new home - behind the drywall…before you ever move in. Modular for me Baby!
Yes. Completely dependent on the site and builder. Soooo many things can go wrong.
My dad was a foreman and "knew" who to use. None of them were fast but they ALL did great jobs.
As an example I remember to this day (and I was 14 when he built it in the early 90s) the dry wallers stops what they were doing and asked "who the h&ll framed this cause even the closets are PERFECTLY square , exactly on measurement, and plum , etc.😅
They were dumbfounded.. as they should have been. Dude was a perfectionist. Took longer than most ( and my dad knew this) and many didn't like to use because he took longer but he knew WHY. And he was ok with that. And he was reasonable on price too.. super old school dude.
And who are your subs? LOL. Are they even half sober? I had 3 houses behind me that sat for 8 months wrapped in Tyvek. Eventually that wrap was flapping in the breeze as weather took it's toll. I wouldn't have wanted to buy any of them.
@@markw999 Lol?at my comment? Can you even READ? Apparently NOT because I said I’d take modular over site built homes hands down….and TYVEK is absolute third rate…if I were building conventionally I’d use either a fluid applied or self adhered moisture barrier or AVB. Before you make a snide remark you should actually read the comment before hitting send lest you appear to be a fool. 🤡
@@bch5513 The quality of your Dads builds are sadly few and far between. You are right to be very proud of your Dads work…it’s a rarity anymore. My primary concern is the fact that lumber and many other building materials are oftentimes sitting exposed - uncovered - in rainy weather for long periods of time. Then, partially dry framing is quickly covered with drywall on the interior, or inferior house wraps which trap the moisture in the wood. Everything looks lovely and new….until the mold appears. And it eventually does.
@@lizzieb6311 - You just violated this channel's rules. And BTW, he was agreeing with you. Reading comprehension matters!
Spot on!
I’ve worked at this particular factory for the last 22 years and I can assure you that everything presented and said here is correct.
I've known this for years. I used to work for a company that builds modular buildings in Texas. I was sold when I saw the framing. The homes are built on a jig so every module is square and plum: your don't see a few carpenters measuring lumber and cutting one by one. Every piece of lumber is cut to the correct size before the build starts. Electrical, sheet rock, roofs use the same process. This system is the same way ships are built, completely assembled modules shipped and put together on site: built better, faster, less expensive and way better quality.
They do a lot of work at the factory before the house arrives. You can hear the pride and enthusiasm in this man's voice about the homes he is producing. I like that. I am perfectly happy in my manufactured home I bought in 2022. It is on 3 acres in the country and it is nicer than any rental I ever lived in. I am currently creating a rose garden in the front complete with walkway and large stone birdbath. Tall trees offer shade and beauty around the house and there is a large vegetable garden in the back.♥
That big modular looks like a Sears and Roebuck or Montgomery Ward home. I gutted one of those and rehabbed it. Great house that withstood unbelievable neglect.
@@BrianButterworth-s4z I believe our house may be a kit home
When you realize they can yank those units into the air without the frame moving enough to shatter the windows, that build is tight.
@@aerohard windows are indeed a limitation for modular. Upvc windows are ok because relatively flexible BUT if you use more rigid frames like aluminum or fiber glass pultruted frames you have a problem and some windows will likely fail during transportation. That means you might need to install upgraded windows on site
@@maurozammarano6651 In general Modulars actually have about 1/3 more wood than a traditional stick built home. This is because of course they have to be picked up by a crane!
I build houses with triple wide full height glass doors. It's amazing what engineers can achieve nowadays to provide structural rigidity.
@@ModularMen Where is the 33-1/3 % more wood placed?
@@lorimcquinn3966 Primarily along the marriage walls where modules meet together.
Each module has to be structurally built as an individual unit. Otherwise it wouldn't be feasible to pick it up with a crane. Therefore there's wayyy more wood at these areas than you would see in a stick built home.
It's also why a stick built would fall apart if you picked it up with a crane.
@@ModularMen Thanks for the info. Are you a licensed builder by chance?
The stick built industry has blocked Modular and manufactured homes for years, high mortgage rates and telling people that they are not as sturdy… we have the technology and advanced products to build better structures for a lot less cost… I am so impressed my retirement home will be modular for sure.. thanks for the information…
its called progressivism
Building an 800sqft right now. Already starting on the base structure early. Just waiting for the final stamped plans based on my design and the permit process starts. Using all metal framing. Flat roof and closed cell foam insulation. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen and living space. 5 Ton MrCool central mini split system. On custom piers 2 feet above grade. Total estimated cost: $40,000. Yes, total.
Done yourself ?
@@richardmenz3257 of course
Metal framing is the way to go. Termites ain't going to eat through that.
Cool! Does that cost include grading the land to make a building lot?
WOW
Check out all of the Arizona home inspectors video showing all of the issues with our stick built homes.... Even those 1 million $
We have been building homes (stick-built) basically the same way for over 200 years - it is time for a new way of thinking about this.
I love to watch "that" inspector as he calls out and shows the code and manufacturer violations that builders are suing him for pointing out. That said...I wonder what the books have to say about modular and whether the installers are doing any better job.
Additional thought here. Lets say for arguments sake, that its the same level of mistakes. Thats often minor mistakes on a 30k home compared to spending millions on a home and having cracked tiles, window frames, roof coverings - Granted AZ has those ceramic? tiles while other states have the more common shingles. And i'll own that 30k home with 3k square feet in no time compared to the cost of a current 3000 sq foot home built old fashion way
Update: We are looking at buildling in Mid Tennessee.... Builder is on Pennsalvania... Sales company is based in New York state! Find the right sales outlet, the right builder.... We are blessed that we also have a custom precast basement builder locally! All tied in together!!! 5 star
How much?
@@KloseDatBaxkdoor Ask a broker? Prices vary due to size and what you are looking for in design etc..
I have to applaud this video and the reason is when I was a PO in LVNV I had to go to one of these factories to keep the peace between two owners that were having trouble. I was given an opportunity to watch how they build these homes I was so impressed wow!. Now I’ve done a lot of building but after seeing these built really made a change in my mind about modular homes. I would buy one in a heartbeat. Thank you.
I want one! This is the way to go, it's efficient, it's secure and it's fast. This is the future in building.
I have been researching modular homes for almost 3 years now.
After watching your videos in comparing stick-built modular.
Modular homes are built then a conventional stick built home.
The fact that the most modular home company will do almost 90% of the work for you.
From obtaining the permits to final cleanup.
I am very proud and excited to say that this fall we will be purchasing a modular home.
There are so many benefits to a modular home that is too big to list here.
Just the fact that the house is built so energy efficient that it will take very little to heat or cool to home.
And the fact that you can basically build the house anyway you like it.
Looking forward to starting the build of my retirement home.
Our burned just prior to covid. We made the decision to replace it with a modular. One payment covered everything except the final electrical hook up. The people were great and we have the perfect home for us. I've been all around this house for different reason from add on plumbing to some external electric work. It's a great product. We're very happy.
I built a home 3 years ago and went with a modular. Its built really well.
I love that you are being pro-active about affordable homes. Unfortunately I'm beyond being able to buy a new home, but there are lots of younger people trying to start families and looking where to raise them and I appreciate this information being available to them. Thanks for what you do and best wishes to you.
Appraiser here. Lots of these in rural Northern Michigan. They're not only built to local code, but also to be strong enough to be driven down the road. Just did an appraisal on a two-story build. Gorgeous. Didn't need inspections every few months to get disbursement. There was a site inspection and one done subject to completion, and then the final 1004D three weeks later. So much less headache for the buyer.
We built a modular home this last year. No problems with financing, but found out our insurance company, Progressive, would not cover a modular home. Had to find an independent broker to get home owners insurance.
Why is that?
@@robertlemaster156 they couldn’t give me a reason. They started the taking my info, and when I first mentioned modular, the guy stopped and said they don’t cover modular. I explained that I didn’t mean mobile (trailer) home, he knew what I meant and said progressive doesn’t cover those for some reason. He advised me to call an independent broker to get coverage.
@@robertlemaster156 Seem very odd to me also because a Modular home is a stick built done in a controlled environment. This is not a Trailer/mobile home.
@@drewski1441probably special interest groups lobbying them
Consider yourself lucky for not getting insurance from them.
Hi Kristina, I have been wanting a Modular home since I saw my friend built a modular home in Vermont 15 years ago. Now that you have shared this great company, and this will be a reality in the near future! Thanks for constantly educating and updating us with the latest products in the real estate world.
As a modular homebuilder in Texas, I appreciate this video. Informative and honest. This is a great builder!
Do you have an email & contact phone number?
We are interested in moving to Texas. Thank you.
It is nice to think about the more uniform quality that can be achieved in a factory.
As a builder I visited a modular home factory and I was impressed by what I saw.
It wasn't for me in my type of home builds but for a standard home I agree it's cool.
I build multi million $$ homes and they couldn't build my custom design homes.
But I do use panelized and save a lot on wasted materials because it's framed in a factory.
Anyone who’s had a stick built home in the last 30 years probably won’t take much convincing.
You’re not wrong.
My wife and I now believe that modular built homes are better than stick built. She has mold poisoning/illness. Ty for sharing this video!!
It gets worse during construction booms. Those trades aren't something you pick up in a few days of training, believe it or not. The kids beating nails during construction booms were often flipping burgers last week. I had to re-hang every door in my first stick built house and clean the vents. The goofballs building it apparently thought the holes in the floor were for trash. LOL.
@@TheClubbinatorI was at Home Depot today and was absolutely SHOCKED to see the massive amount of moldy wood they are trying to sell. It was crazy. I am extremely sensitive to mold and know within a few minutes of being in a space or home. Having a mobile or manufactured home built in a factory eliminates that. They won’t build with moldy wood to begin with, and obviously no rain on materials
what about the lumber.. get real 2by4 and 2by6 .
We built and have been living in a modular house for over 30 years in a very nice neighborhood in New York. The best decision ever!
Great video, Kristina!!!
Loving our modular home that was built in 2001, but we bought in 2022. Very solid construction, but I can see that presently that they are built even better!
14:50 It made me giggle to see how content the dog in your lap was!
11:55 I really appreciate his explanation about being either Stick Built Code or the "HUD code" intended for mobile products
Personally, as things are right now in USA, if I had to go new, I'd have much more faith in a true modular than going for a new stick built.
The dog in her lap was in a blissful trance😂
This was a great video. Very educational. Especially the part about FEMA and City Codes having to be approved and confirmed before building the home. Also the EVR system pricing and why it is needed.
Wow, that is the only way I would go for my future home. He was amazing at explaining what they can do and how well they do it!
I love modular home building. Working in traditional construction you're subject to weather stoppages and here in the south, the heat slows you down in the summer. A friend's backyard developed a fairly large sinkhole. The house is 20 years old. I had a feeling it was where they dumped construction debris. We got a backhoe and dug it up. All the wood waste had rotted away leaving some bricks, cinderblocks, and other debris. We cleaned it out, filled it in, and put down some grass seed.
Thank you for the video. Please make videos listing modular home companies similar to Westchester in other states.
Kristina, thank you so much for a fantastically spectacular video about modular homes!
My wife and I live in a 3,400sq ft modular home and absolutely love it. 2x6 construction outside walls allow great insulation and a very energy efficient home. I would suggest it to anyone thinking of building. You won’t be disappointed.
@@bnewton5922 hello, I know it varies state by state, but could you give an approximate price range I'd be looking at for a home that size? Thank you.
@@jhardy0005 we are the second owners. We bought the house on 3 acres of property with a 1/4 acre pond in 2005 for 197,000 in southern Michigan. Currently assessed value is 325,000. Hope this helps. The floor plans that are available are a strong selling point.
@@bnewton5922 yes it does, thank you for your time!!
Renewed hope for the American Dream!!!!! Thank you Kristina!
I concur Kristina, modular homes are the real deal! As a soon to be Zennihome owner (Permits are in the oven as we speak) the land is ready, house is ready, and the GC is ready, just waiting for those darn pesky permits lol. I've had the pleasure of seeing the build process firsthand.
I know you know how the RED TAPE ruins the timeline!
Wow, the quality of the processes and end product of that company are super impressive! Thanks so much for the informative video; I learned a lot!
Built my home 30 years ago went panelized did tours a mod factory in Erie pa was very impressed wouldn’t hesitate buying a mod home
Definitely better for the environment 😊 less waste more options faster 🏠 build
No it isnt. The boards are the same length from the sawmill. Same waste. Those factories are often air conditioned.
Our modular is being built as we speak. Hurricane Ian destroyed our 50 year old stick built home in Port Charlotte…like so many others. We live in Canada and this was our vacation home. We chose modular for a number of reasons:
1) We can’t be on site to keep contractors on track
2) Build time is much faster
3) Our builder (Jacobsen) makes many homes for the hurricane prone Florida Keys, so the wind rating is higher than stick built coding
4) the builder takes care of all permits etc.
Looking forward to spending winters in our new vacation home!
Thanks Kristina for this great video!
GREAT TO. SEE THE WORKER ARE. HAPPY , MAKES A. GOOD JOB
I'd like to see visits to more factories, when you have a chance to. Good video!
Great Video, everything is absolutely correct. I built a modular home with Westchester Modular in 2002, one of the best decisions ever. Over 22 years later, and still a very satisfied owner.
My home is an modular house, it was rough finding insurance here in TN. Most insurance companies wouldn't cover it because most basically claim it as a mobile home.
I wonder why? We've had Allstate homeowner's insurance for years on our 1999 doublewide on a full foundation AND we later installed a woodstove. I called them first, and they were fine with it.
YES!!! You make me so excited about modular homes! I didnt even know they were a thing before watching your videos but I am DEFINETLY going to look for one when im ready to buy.
I just love watching your videos!! You answer all my questions. Love your humor!!
Extremely informative
@@PRSINPSCA thank you for watching I’m glad you enjoyed the video!
I stumbled upon ur video and now ive been converted to thinking on buying my first home... a modular home indeed😊
Another great and informative video. Thank you. I’d much rather a modular home over a site built.
As a builder myself, modular homes are great in some situations, but not all. The biggest issue is quality of build and materials and biggest factor in that is the builder, factory or stuck built. I’ve seen excellent versions of factory and stick built. Also seen horrible versions of both. Ultimately builders tend to have an identity of sorts in method and materials. I won’t use that “pink insulation” rodents love to live in it and it shrinks overtime so I use rockwool generally even over spray foam. But I like how strong the builder in the video is framing the homes using standard lumber where I use LVL. Both are fine but have different ways of achieving similar goals. Find a good builder interview and discuss a lot of options go with what suits your situation and needs. Also who you think will pickup the phone if there is a problem in the future.
Thank you so much for doing this segment and explaining the difference between modular homes and mobile homes. My son is looking into purchasing a mobile home. I will forward your segment to watch.
We're waiting on our Modular to be built now. Full basement, cape and almost 2000 SF on main floor. Granite, tile, etc... is all being installed with 2 by 6 exterior walls. We can't wait to go see it in factory next month as it's being finished.
@@ridingtheroad185 did you see any cost savings versus site built?
I’m throughly convinced modular homes are the best option for your money.
Definitely prefer pre-built over stick built for a lot of reasons. The thing that doesn't make sense to me is if they're built more efficiently (less waste) and in less time (less labour costs), why are they not significantly cheaper than a regular build?
Christina I am getting ready to take my Real Estate classes in Missouri and Kansas. My all out focus will be Modular Homes. Did I mention I plan on buying a modular home myself. Stay blessed
FASCINATING! I had no idea. Thanks so much for this video and information!
I worked for a factory in middle berry IN that made modular cape cod style homes with something like 15 foot living room ceilings with an open hallway on the second floor that looked down at the living room. It was amazing. Clayton homes might have been the name
Looks to be a positive alternative for a new home.
You have a new subscriber! Another advantage to modular construction is the consistency in the quality because they are well-paid employees in a factory. You have the same people building the homes all the time, unlike a regular contractor who may have to bring in different subcontractors depending on their availability and rely on the subcontractors to have consistency with their tradesmen.
While not exactly a modular, our 66 year old home is a National pre-fab. Factory built wall panels erected on a site built floor platform. The whole subdivision is made up of these, about evenly split between full basements like ours, crawl spaces, and slab-on-grade construction. Ours has been improved several times, most notably by the addition of fourth bedroom with en-suite bath and a remodel of the kitchen to improve the layout and get rid of the original metal cabinetry. Other improvements include thermally efficient windows and residing with vinyl. We aren’t the original owners, but we have been here 43 years and I can tell you the basic structure is just as sound as the day the builder handed over the keys in 1958.
Wow! This is amazing! Thanks for creating this video about Modular Homes!
When I worked at the Bendix Research center, I worked closely with Bendix Home Systems. The company wanted to see how different a modular home was from a well built Mobile Home. The huge difference is basically the same as stick build but done with a ton more precision. There was a Michigan company building Modular. We were able to witness a home being "built" for a customer. They showed up with the modules and three days later the home was ready to move in. And just like this video the home was not identifiable as a "bunch of boxes". This was in 1974.
KS, Thank you so much educating me, I'm very interested in purchasing a module or Prefab home. Love your channel
Love the video! Love the inside look at the manufacturing process. Would love to see a similar video on mobile/manufactured homes that have to be built to H.U.D. code too.
A lot of people think all manufactured homes are 1970s "trailers".
If they would let me in the factory. I’ve tried and have yet had any company allow me to film the factory itself.
Thank you for making this video. This was so informative and definitely answered questions and eased some fears.
Can you discuss the cost of it …?
Depends on location. About the same or more.
Cost is like the other commenter said. “It depends on location”. Of course what you decide for finishes in your home as well.
❤ I really enjoyed this type of video! Thanks for showing us the details of a modular home 😊
I know framers don’t always make sure all the studs are secure. I’ve had about 1/3 the studs in the wall have 1 or less nails in them….
My next house will be a modular house for sure
We bought a modular home and we are watching this! Omg ours is a Fleetwood and I will never go through them. So many things you are showing that someone didn't check off and ours is only 20 years old. Man I just want a new one.
Back in 1996 my wife and I had a 1500 sq ft modular home built by Wausau Homes in WI. We have lived in it ever since and have had no issues with anything. Of course we've done normal maintenance and replaced the shingles once since then but the house itself has been quality built and energy efficient as well. Not as efficient as nowadays mind you but still very efficient. Also, the builder quoted us a price that he said was solid and actually even came out a little cheaper in the end! I would highly recommend modular homes to anyone!
Thank you for doing this video as an insurance agent in Northern California. I really want to write more modular and manufactured homes so I really need to focus on this more for both and this video is very helpful.😊
In 1996 I bought a modular and it was awesome. Huge rooms, very well made and I was able to get a larger home that I would have with a builder in a community. Very happy with my choice.
That was an interesting behind the scenes look at modular home construction. The homes you visited were too traditional, but I guess there are options.
@@eattherich9215 yes, there’s so many options! They are in the northeast so their colonial style is inline with the area.
This video is so good, the editing is on point!!!
I recently lived in a NC rural neighborhood. One of the homes was modular, on a large lot. Nice home, I'd call it middle/low price point. When we got ready to sell our traditional stick built house, and the comps were pulled, the modular home was $175k less on a similar lot. Just something to think about if you are moving into a mixed stick built/modular neighborhood. The wife and I are serious about finding somewhere to probably invest in one of these homes, as the costs here in Colorado for shoddily built homes that are essentially "builder basic" is astronomical. Think $700k for a $450k home. So....we are interested. Thanks for the content
Man I’d totally be up for Modular! Thank you, great video!!!
hi I love this company I've been following you and discover that thus company is amazing and plan to build my house with them this upcoming year I wish the video was a little longer
As someone beginning to consider a future modular home- your message about the use of "modular" has been stretched too far and I often find myself frustrated that I wind up at a manufactured home site or tiny homes.
I’m just amazed, Christina Smallhorn. This is incredible. I’m actually thinking about. I think I’m gonna buy one of these when I’m able to hear probably not for a couple years, but I’m gonna start looking into this now. This is incredible. I can’t believe this you know I don’t understand why never thought of this.
Had plans for a 2500 sq foot single level ranch syle home. Couldn't find a builder,all booked up. We found only one, gave us a cost of $920, 000 dollars, and his plan had 2×4 walls. To ad insult, we had to pay him $800. 00 for the estimate. We did agree to this cost estimate, if we hired him it would have been discounted from the cost. Went modular, got a bigger, and much nicer home for a fraction. Plus, it had 2×6 exterior walls. This is my 2nd home I had built, having purchased my own land. Contractors are thieves, and prey on the desperate.
My husband and I looked at modular homes in the 90s. They were nice then, I wish we would have done it then.
I wish they had prices on their website.. I want a 2 bed 1.5 bath with a garage and I'm good. These are awesome!
Go look at new homes where you live for sale. Check the price per square foot on the price. The price will be more than that by about 10%.
I'm sold. I'm definitely going to look into it and see if I can have one built in AZ. Good video.
You can.
Palm Harbor has modular floorplans available in the Tucson and Alburquerque showrooms.
I would definitely consider buying a modular home if I knew of a good company where the land isn't overly expensive. Great information! Oh, wondering what the smallest modular homes might be? Maybe 600 or 700 sq. ft.?
This seems absolutely awesome ! But as with anything in life, there are pros and cons. I would really also like to know the cons in order to have a fair balance of assessing this product
I love this video. I am learning so much
Love the info. We built in the late 80s and were considering a modular home. I was currious about the construction of them compared to stick built. So we did the exact same thing. Toured a modular home manufacturer in PA. I was overly impressed. The only reason we didn't do with modular is price. At that time, our loan approval wouldn't have covered as much as a stick built for what we wanted. But I love them.
You also avoid dishonest contractors up charging you for everything like claiming that they will be using a superior grade of paint and then ordering "contractor's grade" at the paint store for example AND not wasting half the day/week running to the stores to purchase said items while they eat breakfast lunch and dinner on your time and juggle several jobs while they are supposed to be working on yours dragging out the completion time. I think the modular builders are far better and most are using thicker lumber than stick-built homes made of 2 x 4 wall studs vs 6" for modular. The only thing about this review that surprised me was that the flooring, lighting, switch plates, and countertops don't come already installed with just the seams between the units needing to be finished onsite. Modular companies I've visited install that stuff in the factory and deliver the units completed save for the seams. It seems to me that the way the builder shown in the video waits to install those things on-site is leading to more labor cost and time wasted to finish off the interior. I've seen videos of a jet plane engine being backed up to about 30 to 50 feet from to a mfg/modular home = tornado force winds and the only damage it sustained was a few shingles blew off.
Nobody is using 2x4 for framing except the gulf states.
Awesome video Kristina and super informational, thanks! 👍👍
Thanks Kristian, Great video - well done. Explains this process well.....Very interesting.
Fantastic video!!! thank you for educating me on modular homes. I will look into these for sure.
Yes they are. After a tornado took our home in 2004 I bought a custom built.home that was modular. We were in a new home in 5 months!
I love the idea of modular homes and would have built one except for the 1 year backlog...
Thank you for explaining the manufactured vs modular. I believe you are correct that the traditional builders have a benefit from people being confused. I would love to see a graphic showing the diff between the two kinds of builds. Thanks.
Thank you for the awesome video I would love to see some of the details of the mechanicals HVAC plumbing etc how it comes together
I checked out some websites selling modular homes. They seem great. My question is, how does one go about finding land with utility hookups and other necessities. Are there simple guidelines explaining how to do this?
My parents ranch was modular. Scandinavia builds this way with MDF. Every piece of tree is used. Vacuumed wood shavings generate new lumber and is stronger than natural board. There is a UA-cam video showing entire process.
Great video! This made this so clear. I want one too!
One of the unspoken considerations we found was in flexibility. If you are like me, and prone to reconsidering decisions, then ponder the costs of working with an architect and the costs for updates, not to mention the delays in getting those changes approved and re-drawn. It's not a simple thing.
With our modular home, changes were nearly instantaneous along with pricing updates (rare).
We were able to have the home placed, onsite with waterproof walls 9 feet high in the basement, within weeks. And at a cost of $150 a square foot, ready for sub contractors to come in and finish as I desired. After "set day" we would have been able to pursue a Certificate of Occupancy within 60 days.
Can't say enough about my experience with Buffalo Modular Homes.
Excellent video. Thank you for doing this :)
Regarding the difference in the building codes used in modular vs. manufactured, how does the inspection and compliance to those codes work? Are there on-site inspectors at the manufacturing facilities? What is the relation of the third-party quality control to inspection authorities? Do the third-party quality control firms convey any sort of warranty, explicit or implied, or does that flow from the manufacturing facility or the assemblers?
Stated code compliance of on-site construction varies from locality to locality, depending upon availability and scheduling of inspections. What mechanisms exist to provide a consistent, uniform code compliance in the manufactured facility? How is it not also impacted by the vagaries of inspection availability? Are the local code requirements of the installed location reflected in the build at the facility, which may be located in a different inspection area? The obvious solution is to "over-spec" all modules to achieve code compliance regardless of location. What does that do to the cost of construction of all modules? Depending on the eventual assembly site, the cost per square foot may be higher than a traditional, site-built structure.
Has this issue been adjudicated by underwriters and mortgage originators? What are the historical valuations of these buildings versus traditional on-site constructed in terms of appreciation? How much data is available to support any such assertions, and where could I find it?
Hardest thing in SE is finding reputable builders
That’s a big challenge in the south too. They keep trying to pass off a HUD home as a modular and there’s nothing stopping them from doing it.