When it comes to purchasing a manufactured home, you might be torn between buying a brand-new one or opting for a used one. While new homes certainly have their appeal, there are many compelling reasons why buying a used manufactured home can be a smarter choice. In this blog, we will explore nine reasons why buying a used manufactured home can often be a better decision than going for a brand-new one.
1. Cost Savings
The most obvious advantage of buying a used manufactured home is the significant cost savings. New manufactured homes come with a premium price tag due to their modern features and materials. On the other hand, used homes are often priced much more affordably, allowing you to get more bang for your buck. This cost savings can be especially appealing if you're on a tight budget or looking to invest in a second home.
2. Mature Landscaping
Used manufactured homes often come with mature landscaping and well-established gardens. Unlike new homes where you might have to start from scratch with landscaping, a used home may already have beautiful trees, shrubs, and flower beds that can provide instant curb appeal and a sense of tranquility. Plus, you can save time and money on landscaping projects and often get additional privacy with mature hedges.
3. Established Communities
Many used manufactured homes are located in well-established communities with a strong sense of community spirit. When you buy a used home, you're not just purchasing a house; you're gaining access to a community with amenities like parks, pools, and social events. This can be particularly appealing if you're looking for a tight-knit neighborhood to call home.
4. Reduced Depreciation
One of the most significant drawbacks of buying a new manufactured home is the rapid depreciation that occurs during the first few years; especially in a market with increasing interest rates. New homes can lose a substantial portion of their value shortly after purchase. In contrast, used homes have already experienced this initial depreciation, meaning your investment is less likely to decline in value as quickly.
5. Negotiation Room
When you buy a used manufactured home, you often have more room for negotiation compared to purchasing a new one. Sellers of used homes may be more flexible with the price, especially if they are motivated to sell quickly. This flexibility can help you secure a better deal and potentially save even more money. New homes, sold by dealer networks, can be marked up substantially whereas used homes are priced according to market conditions.
6. Customization Opportunities
Used manufactured homes provide a unique opportunity for customization. Since the home already exists, you can assess its layout and features and make changes to suit your preferences. Whether it's a kitchen renovation, a bathroom upgrade, or a new color scheme, you have the freedom to personalize the home to your liking without the restrictions that come with buying a new home.
7. Proven Durability
Manufactured homes are built to last, and older models have proven their durability over the years. When you buy a used manufactured home, you can have confidence in its construction quality. These homes have weathered various conditions, proving their resilience and ability to withstand the test of time.
8. Reduced Maintenance Costs
Used manufactured homes may require less maintenance than new ones. Many of the initial issues and defects in a new home have already been addressed by the time it becomes a used home. This can translate to lower maintenance costs and fewer surprises after your purchase, allowing you to enjoy your home with greater peace of mind. I often hear stories of new home buyers experiencing multiple requests for factory service. It's sometimes best to let someone else deal with those headaches.
9. Faster Move-In
Buying a new manufactured home often involves a waiting period for ordering the home, construction, delivery, and finally the on-site setup. With a used home, you can move in the day
you close escrow. This can be especially advantageous if you need to relocate or want to start enjoying your new home sooner rather than later.
Conclusion
While new manufactured homes offer the excitement of designing a home from the ground up, buying a used manufactured home comes with benefits that are hard to ignore. From cost savings to mature landscaping and established communities, there are compelling reasons to consider purchasing a used home. Additionally, the reduced depreciation, negotiation room, and customization opportunities make used manufactured homes a practical and attractive choice for many homebuyers. Ultimately, the decision between new and used comes down to your specific needs, but it's clear that a used manufactured home can offer numerous advantages that make it a better option for many prospective homeowners. So, if you're in the market for a manufactured home, don't discount the value and benefits of going the used route.
Peter Jorde is the Owner/Founder of South Coast Mobile Homes and has nearly 40 years of real estate sales and management experience. If you have a need to buy or sell a mobile home or manufactured home, please consider reaching out with any questions. You can reach Peter at (949) 613-1044. Please sign up for our "First Call Newsletter" for tons of insights into the buying and selling process. Sign up here: https://www.southcoastmobilehomes.com/lead-collection. And please check out what our clients are saying: https://www.southcoastmobilehomes.com/ff