Finding the Right Mobile Home

Finding the right home can be difficult, which is why in this section we cover many of the choices you make during your home buying journey.

Buying a Mobile Home Online

The digital revolution has transformed the way we shop, from books to groceries. But what about more significant purchases like homes? Braustin Homes has successfully tackled this challenge by allowing customers to buy a mobile home completely online.

Confronting The Challenges

One of the significant barriers Braustin had to overcome was the hesitancy people felt about making such a significant investment online. To address this, they initially focused on providing transparent pricing and instant delivery estimates accessible from anywhere in Texas.

Virtual Home Tours

Once the pricing challenge was sorted, the next step was to provide a realistic experience of the home. In partnership with their factories, Braustin produced full 3D immersive videos. These virtual tours allow potential buyers and their families to “walk” through homes using a smartphone or computer, offering a comprehensive view of what they are investing in.

Streamlining Paperwork with the Braustin Home Buying App

Perhaps the most daunting aspect of buying a mobile home is the paperwork. To streamline this, Braustin developed an exclusive home-buying app that significantly simplifies the documentation process. This app keeps buyers updated in real time during the document workflow. It also allows you to upload essential documents like W-2s or pay stubs directly to lenders. Post-purchase, the app facilitates warranty services by allowing customers to take pictures and submit warranty lists directly from their smartphones.

Comprehensive User Experience

To ensure customers feel comfortable making such a significant financial decision, Braustin has invested considerable time and effort into creating content that answers all potential questions a buyer might have. Our website features extensive customer experience videos that guide buyers through every step of the online home-buying journey.

Single vs Double Wide Homes

Choosing between a single and double wide mobile home involves more than just personal preference. Both types come with their own sets of advantages and limitations. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Basic Differences

At the most rudimentary level, a single wide is a factory-built home consisting of one section, whereas a double wide is made of two sections built at the factory and then assembled at the property. However, this fundamental difference leads to several other considerations you should consider.

Space and Cost

Some of the 18-wide models of single wides now offer more square footage than smaller double wides. If you’re constrained by budget but still want ample space, these larger single wides could be an excellent choice. They generally have lower set-up and trim-out costs compared to double wides.

Cost-Effectiveness

Single wides are generally more cost-effective when considering delivery and setup. The work involved in installing a single wide is usually less extensive and less expensive because it only involves one section. Site work, like creating a base pad and installing a septic system, is also usually cheaper for single wides due to their smaller size.

Variety and Amenities

If you prefer an open-concept floor plan or need more space, a double wide might be better suited for you. Double wides offer greater variety in floor plans and layouts due to the extra room available for design. They often include additional amenities like second living rooms and guest bathrooms, features that single wides usually can’t offer due to space constraints.

Resale Value

It’s also worth noting that double wide homes tend to have higher resale values. This is because there is a larger market for these more spacious homes than their single wide counterparts.

The 6 Parts of Your Mobile Home Price

Purchasing a mobile home is a significant financial commitment that requires careful planning and consideration. When pricing out a new mobile home, there are six primary components you should be aware of. These factors can help you make an informed decision and fit comfortably within your budget.

Base Price

The base price is the starting point and includes the home with its standard features built by the factory. Braustin offers an online catalog where you can view the base prices of various models, helping you better understand what’s available in your budget range. 

Mobile Home Delivery Estimate

It’s important to factor in the cost of delivering your mobile home from the factory to your location. While delivery calculators may not provide an exact number, they can give you a reasonable estimate to guide your budgeting process.

Upgrade Allowance

You’ll likely want some upgrades or custom features when buying a mobile home. Since the exact costs of these items can be hard to determine initially, Braustin uses an “upgrade allowance” as a placeholder to give you an idea of the final price.

Site Improvement Allowance

Your home site may require additional work like leveling, installing utilities, or other improvements. Like an upgrade allowance, a “site improvement allowance” is an estimate used to project these costs in your budget.

Monthly and Down Payments

When financing your mobile home, it’s essential to consider your down payment and monthly payment options. Your lender will need to approve these amounts, and it’s often easier to ask for a bit more upfront and then whittle down the price as you finalize the details.

Choosing mobile home upgrades

Choosing upgrades for your new mobile home can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the buying process. However, it’s essential to think practically and focus on long-term benefits. While many factories offer professionally designed color schemes, other options like upgraded countertops or cabinets are often available.

Siding and Insulation

One of the most recommended upgrades is hardboard siding. This durable option reduces maintenance costs and offers better insulation, helping you save on electric bills. Most factories also provide upgraded insulation packages, which might slightly increase your monthly payment but will pay off in energy savings in just a year or two.

Cosmetic Upgrades

When considering cosmetic upgrades like tile backsplashes or upgraded countertops, remember that many of these can be DIY projects tackled later on your time and budget. The key is to prioritize upgrades that offer long-term value and comfort for you and your family rather than getting swept up in the excitement of customizing every detail.

Mobile Home Wall Types

When buying a mobile home, one often overlooked aspect is the type of wall finish. Our online tool allows you to search for homes based on this feature, and it’s an important one as it can drastically impact the home’s price and functionality.

Three Common Options

• Vinyl Over Gypsum (VOG): It’s a cost-effective and kid-friendly choice as it is easy to clean. VOG can be a lifesaver if you have children who love to draw on walls.
• Tape-and-Texture: Commonly found in most residential homes. This gives a modern, clean finish but tends to be more expensive due to labor costs. If you’re handy, this could be a DIY project for later.
• VOG and Tape-and-Texture Combo: This can offer the best of both worlds. Tape-and-texture is used in living areas, while VOG is applied in places with plumbing, providing both aesthetics and functionality.

Choosing the Perfect Kitchen Sink

Selecting the right kitchen sink for your mobile home can be a complex decision, as you have various factors to consider, including size, material, and even the faucet type. Here are some essential aspects to mull over.

Single Bowl vs. Double Bowl

The single bowl is large and spacious, ideal for those who use a dishwasher or don’t have many dishes. Also known as farmhouse sinks, they offer ample space for larger cleaning tasks. Double bowl sinks are more common and versatile, letting you wash in one bowl and rinse in the other. They come in equal or unequal sizes for different needs.

Material Matters

Your sink can be made from stainless steel, enamel, porcelain, or composite materials. Stainless steel is the most popular due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Enameled sinks are easy to clean but are prone to chipping. Composite sinks like granite ones are visually appealing and durable, but porcelain sinks are generally not recommended as they are easier to damage.

Mounting Options

Consider how the sink will be mounted. While most sinks are mounted onto or underneath the counter, apron-front sinks extend to the very edge of the counter, making it easier on your back and easier to clean.

Faucet Types

Go beyond the traditional straight-neck faucet. Modern options include the gooseneck faucet, which offers added height and easier access to the sink. Some come with integrated sprayers, reducing clutter on your sink top.

Flooring Options

Choosing the right flooring for your mobile home is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. While many people get carried away with options like kitchen islands and walk-in showers, flooring should not be an afterthought. The most common flooring choices are carpet and linoleum. Standard models often feature carpet in the bedrooms and walkways, while wet areas like the kitchen and bathroom have linoleum.

Consider Your Mobile Home’s Location

Consider the location of your home and your family’s habits. For example, in sandy areas like West Texas or South San Antonio, carpet may not be a practical option, especially for families with kids who love outdoor play. Some factories offer a “linoleum throughout” package, with costs dependent on your home’s size.

DIY Flooring Options

For DIY enthusiasts, some mobile homes can be delivered with just the exposed subfloor, providing a blank canvas for custom flooring. If you opt for this, remember to prep the floor properly by sweeping and possibly sanding down rough areas. When opting for complete linoleum, be aware of low-profile transition bars that may be needed to cross from one side of the home to the other. These bars are designed to match your linoleum but are noticeable.

Skirting Options for Your Home – Why You Want Skirting and the Choices You Can Make

Selecting the right skirting for your mobile home is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of the home-buying process. Skirting adds an aesthetic finish and protects your home’s foundation, plumbing, and ducts from severe weather and unwelcome critters. Some communities and loan types, like FHA or VA, even require specific skirting materials, so consult with your housing consultant to ensure your choice is compliant.

Four Popular Skirting Options

Vinyl skirting is popular for its budget-friendly nature but may warp or get damaged over time. Hardy board, made from lightweight concrete, offers durability against water, termites, and other outdoor elements. It’s also better at insulating and comes with a higher upfront cost, but may save you in the long run. Metal skirting offers durability and can mimic stone or brick aesthetics. If you prefer a natural stone look without the expense, consider panels made of thick vinyl or polyurethane designed to mimic stone.

Other Skirting Options

Other creative options include reclaimed wood, bricks, or cinder blocks. However, whatever material you choose, add sufficient venting to prevent moisture damage, mold, or mildew. Always consult community and loan regulations before making your final choice.

How to Price Upgrades

We made it easier and more transparent to figure out the price of your new home on our website! You can now use the options calculator to know the cost of most upgrades for your home.

See the Blog on Single Wide Home Upgrades

Braustin Best Price Guarantee

We know that as a potential home buyer you have a ton of choices out there and with so many options, its hard to make sure that you are getting the best price.  Part of creating Braustin Mobile Homes with a foundation of transparency out the gate was making sure that not only did we have our pricing publicly posted on our website, but giving you as a potential home buyer a piece of mind knowing that we were giving you our best price up front.

We’re so confident that we’ll have the absolute best posted pricing on all the homes we carry that we back it with a $500 guarantee.

See the Page on Our Best Price Guarantee

Instant Pricing for Your Mobile Home

Pricing a new mobile home involves multiple factors; transparency is key to a smooth buying process. Braustin Mobile Homes emphasizes upfront and honest pricing from the get-go. Typically, the base price of each home is posted online, reflecting the home’s standard factory-included features. To enhance transparency, we offer an instant delivery calculator to provide an estimate for shipping the home from the factory to your site.

Mobile Home Allowances

The total cost doesn’t stop at delivery. You’ll need to factor in additional allowances for upgrades and site improvements. These allowances give you an idea of monthly payments and down payment requirements, helping you gauge affordability before diving deeper into specifics. Remember that it’s easier to negotiate down from a higher allowance than to ask for more later, so initial estimates often aim high.

Buying a Stock Model Mobile Home

Stock model mobile homes serve as show models for dealers and come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. One of the most significant benefits is immediate availability. If you’re on a tight schedule, a stock model can be delivered promptly, aligning with your timeframe. Additionally, dealers often offer discounts on these homes to make room for new inventory, potentially saving you money.

However, it’s crucial to compare prices and ensure you’re getting a good deal, as not all discounts are as beneficial as they seem. Buying directly from the factory allows you to customize the home to your liking, often at a lower cost due to reduced labor and setup expenses.

Before making this significant financial commitment, take your time to weigh all options and consult with family members involved in the decision. Rushed, emotional choices can lead to regret, so exercise due diligence to make the best choice for your needs.

Buying a Repo Mobile Home

Purchasing a repossessed mobile home can seem like a budget-friendly option, but weighing the pros and cons is crucial. Market conditions can affect the cost-effectiveness of such homes; sometimes, a new factory-built home may be a better deal.

Repossessed homes usually have a limited 60-day habitability warranty, covering only essential utilities. Insurance coverage may also be restricted, as some providers prefer new homes. Additionally, government loan programs like FHA and VA often limit financing options for used homes, affecting your future resale value.

Before making a purchase, it’s vital to have the home inspected by a professional to uncover any hidden issues. Always get any promises about cosmetic repairs in writing to avoid future complications. Exercise due diligence to ensure your investment is sound.

Rent to Own Mobile Homes

Rent-to-own mobile homes can be an attractive option for those unable to secure traditional financing. However, it’s crucial to ensure the seller actually owns the property. Utilize a title company to confirm ownership and check that the seller is up-to-date on property taxes. Failure to pay taxes could result in the property being seized, regardless of your payments.

Contractual Obligations and Penalties

Before signing any contract, understand your rights and obligations. Some contracts may have steep penalties for early payoff or restrict cosmetic changes to the home. Consult a real estate attorney or, at the very least, have a trusted friend or family member review the contract.

In summary, while rent-to-own can be a viable path to homeownership, it comes with its own set of risks. Exercise due diligence, and don’t let emotions cloud your judgment. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Tips for Families Looking for a Mobile Home or Manufactured Home

Downsizing Tips for People Over 55

Mobile Home Trade-Ins

While trading in your home with a broker like Braustin Homes may seem convenient, it’s not necessarily the most financially advantageous route. Brokers have to consider various costs, such as disassembling the home, moving it, reassembling it, and providing a state-mandated 60-day habitability warranty. These costs are deducted from your home’s NADA value, which ultimately lowers your trade-in value.

On the other hand, selling your home directly to a third-party buyer can help you avoid these broker-associated costs, thereby maximizing your return. Platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are excellent avenues for finding potential buyers.