Buying a Used Mobile Home: The Top Things to Look For

While there are some great deals for used mobile homes out there, you should always proceed with caution!

For prospective buyers on a tighter budget, a used mobile home can be an excellent and cost-effective option. However, it is critical to understand what questions to ask during the buying process and how to evaluate the home’s condition.

Identifying a few important factors can help you ensure that you are buying the right home at the right price and not making a mistake. As always, that’s why we are here to help! Here are the top things to look for when buying a used mobile home. 

Let’s begin! 

Condition of the Used Mobile Home

A manufactured home’s value, like that of a site-built home, is significantly affected by how the home was constructed and maintained. 

The condition is important not only to ensure that you get the home for which you paid but also to understand how that home will hold up for you in the future. Does it look like the previous owner just didn’t care at all? Do you want to have an endless list of repairs and upgrades to complete as soon as you move into your mobile home? 

So check for proper operation of primary systems such as (but are not limited to):

• windows/doors
• roof
• flooring
• heating/cooling systems
• appliances
• plumbing system

It’s critical to conduct a thorough checklist and a home inspection for all items. Otherwise, buying a used mobile home blindly will cost you, literally! The last thing you want is to move into your home and be met with repairs that drain your bank account. 

Electrical Wiring Issues

Any issues with the electrical wiring, if you are buying a used mobile home, can be one of the most expensive things to take care of. With that being said, having the wiring inspected is paramount! Old or unsafe wiring can be hazardous and result in electrical fires. 

If the mobile home was built before 1976, it should be completely rewired to comply with the new code. Aluminum wiring was used in these pre-HUD homes, and the connectors used for these electrical systems are considered huge fire hazards. 

Mobile homes should come with HUD plates that show whether they have met HUD standards. This is a quick way to tell if the electrical is up to code. Homes built before 1976, on the other hand, may not have followed HUD code and require a thorough wiring change. You don’t want to skip taking care of this! 

Foundation: Is it Solid & Sturdy?

If you want your mobile home to stick around for the long run, it’s important to assess the state of the foundation. This is another major factor to consider if you want to buy a used mobile home. A chassis is always used in the construction of mobile homes. Even if the axles and wheels are removed during installation and hookup, the chassis serves as the home’s foundation. So it’s important to check the chassis for wear and rust.

The mobile home may be built on a concrete pad or pilings, with a pier and beam tie-down system. The pier and beam system that holds the home down should also be taught, sturdy, and free of rust and any other signs of age or damage. It’s wise to have a home inspector check these items so you can move forward accordingly.

Should I Just Buy a New Mobile Home?

It seems easier, right? 

Unless finances make it impossible, it is usually a better choice to buy new mobile homes. This means:

• No hidden repairs or unexpected expenses upon moving in.
• No need to remodel to make the mobile home look modern.
• Energy-efficient features throughout, such as appliances and lighting.
• Home warranty that will cover defects or issues in the first year.
• Customizable options so you can get exactly what you want.
• Peace of mind. Enough said!

If going the route of buying a used mobile home isn’t for you, then reach out to our team at Braustin Homes. You will be surprised by the variety of mobile homes available that are extremely budget-friendly, and beautiful! We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Speak with an expert at Braustin Homes today!