FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Is a manufactured home built to a quality standard?
The construction of all manufactured homes marketed in this country is strictly regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (or the HUD Code). In many cases, manufacturers view the HUD Code as minimum performance standards - and exceed mandated standards in their basic designs and offer buyers option packages with upgrades for increased energy efficiency and overall performance.
The HUD Code encompasses not only the construction of the home, but also the performance of heating, air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, thermal and electrical systems.
How safe are manufactured homes?
Independent studies and research by the National Fire Protection Association confirm that the incidence of fire is actually lower in a HUD Code manufactured home than a site-built home.
And construction requirements for wind resistance for manufactured homes are equal to, or in certain areas of the country - even more stringent than the requirements for site-built housing. And, recent revisions to the HUD Code called for enhanced structural features and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes sold and placed in high wind areas - like the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal regions.
Where do I get financing?
Many types of financial institutions and service companies - including banks, savings banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, and consumer finance companies - offer loan programs for manufactured home buyers. These companies can offer a number of types of consumer, conventional and government-insured financing, such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Veterans Administration (VA), Farm Home Loan Administration (FmHA), the Government and the Federal National Mortgage Associations (Ginne Mae and Fannie Mae, respectively) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation loan programs.
As for their investment possibilities, manufactured homes can retain - and gain - value when placed in the proper environment, installed and maintained properly, and treated as a long-term housing investment.
Can I use my land as collateral?
Land that is clear of any liens can be used as collateral. Typically an appraisal is done to determine the value that a bank may use.
What do I do about getting utilities?
It is recommended to get estimates for septic, electric, water, driveway and any other work needed to make the home ready to move in.
Do you have a basic home with no "frills"?
We carry several different builders. From basic to homes with lots of features and ammenities. This way we can meet the needs of our customers.
Do I get a warranty with my new home?
Factories offer various warranties with their homes. We recommend that you consult with our sales professional to explain each factories warranty for you.
How long does it take to get approved?
Your application is processed in 48 hours or less if you provide the conditions that the lender will need.
Why are manufactured homes so affordable?
While manufactured homes are more affordable than most other types of housing, the reasons lie in the inherent advantages of any on-going production process.
Manufacturers purchase their building materials in volume - allowing the homes to be built with the highest quality materials and components. Because they are built in a controlled environment utilizing a systems-engineered production method, there are no costly weather delays in the construction process. Manufactured homes are less labor-intensive and require a shorter production time than site-built alternatives.
I am just shopping Can I still see some homes?
Our company will generally approve customers before having them select a home. They can apply by phone, fax or email. It's very convenient and there are no application or up front fees. Once approved our associate will show the homes that meet the buying criteria. This will eliminate viewing homes that are not in the approved budget or do not meet the families needs.
Do you have zero down?
If you are a land owner, you may qualify for a zero down program.
Do manufactured homes offer different styles and options?
While most manufacturers adhere to common sizes for both single and multi-section units, today's manufactured homes come in a variety of floorplan designs to meet almost anyone's housing needs. Available options in exterior materials, colors and interior amenities - like fireplaces, whirlpool baths, walk-in closets and quality built-in appliances - give homebuyers an array of choices in their selection of a new home.
I own a manufactured home that is not habitable. Can I sell it?
That depends. If you sell more than one manufactured home in a twelve month period, you must be licensed as a retailer; and a licensed retailer may not sell a home that is not habitable unless it is sold for business use only.
A sale by an exempt consumer is not covered by the Texas Manufactured Housing Standards Act. However, if the home is moved, the new installation is subject to inspection; and at the inspection the habitability condition will be cited if observed.
Also, if the home is not habitable, even if the sale is exempt from our jurisdiction, you may be committing a practice that will give rise to liability. We do not recommend selling a home that is not habitable unless the matter is fully disclosed.
I want to move my home. What do I have to do?
First, the person or company that moves the home must contact the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) (http://www.txdot.state.tx.us) to obtain any required permit, a copy of which must be submitted with your application for a new SOL. Next, you will need to apply for a new SOL, showing the new location. Also, any lien holders will need to be discharged (paid off) or give their written consent to the move.
I need to move quickly, can you help me?
If you are purchasing one of our existing properties, you can move as soon as you close and have completed the walk thru on your home.
May I move my own home?
You may, but you must obtain a permit from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to do so. For permit information, you may visit the TxDOT website at http://www.txdot.state.tx.us or call 1-800-299-1700. You will need a copy of your TxDOT permit in order to apply for a new SOL showing a new location.
What are Wind Zones, and what do I need to know about them?
The counties along the Gulf Coast are designated as Wind Zone II counties because they often experience very strong winds, especially when a hurricane makes landfall. Therefore the homes that are installed in those counties must be built and installed to withstand these higher winds. To be installed in a Wind Zone II county, a manufactured home constructed on or after September 1, 1997, must meet Wind Zone II standards. Wind Zone II homes and homes built prior to September 1, 1997, may be installed in a Wind Zone I or II county without restriction. Wind Zone I homes may not be installed in those counties designated as Wind Zone II. The counties designated as Wind Zone II are Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Orange, Refugio, San Patricio and Willacy.
Buying a new home may be the most important purchase you will ever make. At American Homes, we want to provide you with accurate information so that you can make an informed decision about your new home. Below, we have provided some answers and suggestions on some of the more frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
Our homes come in a variety of sizes, styles, floor plans and prices. Manufactured homes can be installed on your own land, in a rental community or in a planned subdivision.
Manufactured homes are factory built to meet the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, also known as the HUD Code. The Code, which is administered by the U.S. Department of housing and Urban Development (HUD), regulates the home's design and construction, strength and durability, transportability, fire resistance and energy efficiency. It also sets performance standards for the heating, air conditioning, plumbing, thermal and electrical systems.
866-771-1072
4384 East I-30
Rockwall, Texas 75087
