Manufactured housing has come a long way from the 1950s image of the poorly constructed, plain white “trailer.” Mobile homes now are a popular alternative to traditional housing, having most of the traditional home’s best features at half the cost. Plus, additional savings on mobile home insurance, as compared to traditional home insurance, might be available in some areas. Yet, even with their new, sleek designs and amenities, mobile homes must still combat myths about their safety, appearance and construction. Here are six mobile home myths and the realities that disprove them.

1. Myth: Mobile homes are more vulnerable to fire than traditional, single-family homes.

Reality: According to numerous studies by insurance companies, fire marshalls and fire protection agencies, the strict construction standards of mobile homes have made them no more susceptible to fire than traditional homes. Since 1976, mobile homes are the only homes with a national building code set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD.

2. Myth: Mobile homes don’t appreciate in value like other properties.

Reality: The location of a manufactured home, just like that of a traditional home, largely determines the value of the home, according to a study by Datacomp, a provider of manufactured and mobile home value reports and price information. If located in a stable neighborhood and maintained, mobile homes appreciate at a similar rate to traditional homes.

3. Myth: Mobile homes aren’t as energy efficient as traditional homes.

Reality: Manufactured homes must meet minimum energy conservation standards based on the region for which they are constructed. These energy standards mean lower energy bills and improved ventilation. The insulation in today’s mobile homes is similar to that in traditional single-family homes.

4. Myth: Mobile homes are unusually vulnerable to windstorms.

Reality: In the early 1990s, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Andrew, the wind resistance of manufactured homes was improved. Plus, wind safety provisions set by HUD were strengthened for wind zones frequently affected by windstorms. In some of these zones the code for manufactured homes is more stringent than the regional codes for traditional homes. Proper site installation and anchoring are key to improved wind resistance for all manufactured homes. A direct hit from a tornado will damage almost any home in its path.

5. Myth: Mobile homes are poorly constructed.

Reality: Manufactured homes are constructed with the same materials as traditional homes. While a traditional home is built outdoors, a mobile home is built in a secure, climate-controlled factory. Also, they are built according to strict standards set by the federal government. The factory setting allows all systems within the home, such as plumbing, heating and electrical systems, to be tested for compliance with the government’s code.

6. Myth: Manufactured homes all look the same.

Reality: Mobile homes are now available in a variety of designs to suit any taste. Would you like a Craftsman style manufactured home or a colonial? Yes, those are options for mobile homes! You can choose the design of your home as well as the color, layout and options, just like in a traditional home.

The reality is that deciding to live in one of today’s manufactured homes is a great choice. They are affordable, well-constructed and energy efficient. If you are considering buying one, contact a Texas mobile home insurance agent to determine the savings you might enjoy by choosing a manufactured home instead of a traditional home.

Sources
Manufactured Housing Association of Oklahoma, www.mhao.org
Ohio Manufactured Homes Association, www.welcomehomeohio.com