For those new to the housing market, it’s normal to have questions about the different options available to them. Moving into a new place is a big life event, so it’s key that potential buyers think carefully about the house they want to call home.

Though both are considered types of “prefabricated homes,” mobile homes and modern manufactured homes are just some of the choices out there. What exactly makes them different, and what should potential homeowners know about each option?

Clayton Homes in Donna, Texas, is here to help anyone who wants to buy a mobile or manufactured home make the right decision. Discover how these homes differ and see what’s right for you!

Mobile Homes and Manufactured Homes: What’s the Difference?

Before we discuss the main differences, it is important to recognize that the two types of homes are similar in some ways, including:

• both are prefabricated homes

• mass-produced in a factory

• may not have a permanent foundation

The true difference between mobile and manufactured homes has to do with when they were built and with what regulations. 

In 1976, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (or HUD) declared that any home built prior to that year were “mobile homes” while all future homes were to be “manufactured” with strict guidelines in place. 

If you’re curious, Clayton Homes has more information about these differences on our website as well as answers to many other questions!

All About Mobile Homes 

Traditional mobile homes aren’t quite the same as their manufactured counterparts. In fact, they’re more reminiscent of modern trailers, caravans, or campers with actual wheels built into the bottom of the structure.

One of the main draws of this type of living arrangement is the freedom it allows its owners. If you’re able to hitch your home to the back of your truck, the open road is yours to travel whichever way you desire, whenever you desire.

However, the downsides also stack up, and you won’t get the benefits that a manufactured home offers.

More Info on Manufactured Homes for Sale

As previously mentioned, manufactured homes became the designated term upon the implementation of the HUD’s Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards in 1976. Americans no longer needed to chase different jobs across the country like in the early 1900s, so it made sense that things had to change.

HUD code called for modern manufactured homes to meet federal standards, which include:

• manufacturing of homes must take place inside a climate-controlled building

• must meet modern electrical, plumbing, and fire safety expectations

• higher energy efficiency guidelines that continue to improve to this day

Unless your lifestyle calls for unending travel across the country, manufactured homes are definitely the right choice between the two.

Conclusions on Mobile vs. Manufactured Homes

While mobile and manufactured homes for sale are both considered prefabricated, it’s clear that most potential homeowners would be happier in a modern manufactured home. For people who like to travel, you can also invest in a camper so there’s no need to choose!

Whatever the case, Clayton Homes in Donna, Texas, can help any potential homeowner out there make the right choice and are easy to get in touch with.

Now that you see the difference between mobile and manufactured homes for sale, be sure to reach out to Clayton Homes in Donna, Texas, to discuss moving into the right prefabricated home for you!

Visit Our Website for More Information