Mobile vs. Modular vs. Manufactured homes: What is the difference?

The housing market can already be intimidating, especially for a first-time buyer. Throw in terms like mobile home, modular home and manufactured home and it’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.

But though the terms might be a bit confusing at first, modular and manufactured homes can have a lot of great benefits and might be excellent options for those looking for affordable homes with modern amenities.

We’re here to clear things up by sharing the differences between these three terms and what they might mean for your housing search.

What is a mobile home?

When you hear the term “mobile home” or “trailer” your mind might think of a pretty old-school image. That’s because many consider the term “mobile home” to be a bit outdated. A mobile home is a more casual way to refer to a manufactured home. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sets standards for manufactured homes and has since 1976. This article from NerdWallet outlines the difference well. Technically, a mobile home would be a manufactured home built before these standards went into effect.

That said, there are plenty of homes these days that are literally mobile, like some tiny homes, van life vehicles and amazing RVs. We have a spot for these vehicles at Garber Communities, too, with our RV resorts.

What is a manufactured home?

So what is a manufactured home? Manufactured homes are built in a factory and transported to the building site. They are built on a permanent frame with wheels called a chassis, which is what makes them “mobile.” Once they are delivered to their location, however, the chassis is placed on a more permanent foundation, like piers, masonry crawl spaces or concrete. They aren’t meant to be moved more than once.

Manufactured homes can have many benefits. Due to the lower cost of materials, they can be priced between 10% to 35% less per square foot than traditional homes that are built on-site. Builders and buyers don’t have to worry about weather delays, and assembly line construction is faster and cheaper. With manufacturers like Champion, one of our builders at Garber, these homes can also feature beautiful and elevated finishes, from modern kitchens to elegant showers and walk-in closets.

What is a modular home?

Like a manufactured home, a modular home is built in a factory in different sections—or “modules”— and then transported to the home site to be fully assembled. The difference between a modular home and manufactured home is that modular homes aren’t built on a chassis and are assembled on a permanent foundation once they reach their site. Modular homes also follow local, state and regional building codes, rather than the HUD standards manufactured homes adhere to.

Many of the benefits, however, are the same. These homes can deliver on incredible value, with updated finishes and affordability due to the construction process.

Looking for an affordable home in Florida?

Now that you know the difference between these types of homes, you can decide if a manufactured home or modular home is right for you—and reap the benefits.

At Garber Communities, we have several Florida manufactured homes available now at incredible communities across Florida. We’re also here to assist you every step of the way. Explore our range of manufactured homes for sale in Florida, including budget-friendly new options. Contact us at 407-949-8629, and let’s start your journey to homeownership.

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