There are a lot of myths out there about manufactured homes, and we’re doing our part to bust them. Here are five of the most common myths we hear about manufactured homes.
Myth #1- Manufactured homes are “mobile”
There’s a reason you're reading the phrase “manufactured homes” and not “mobile homes.” First, “mobile homes” *technically* refers to homes built before Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code was established in 1976. More to the point, only 1% of manufactured homes move once they are placed. Sure, they get put on a truck to go to their forever home, but once they are put there they are pretty much stuck. It takes lots of money (like, tens of thousands of dollars) to move a manufactured home. And you risk really serious damage. Some older homes can’t be moved at all without being completely destroyed.
Myth #2- Manufactured homes are low-quality
Manufactured homes are the only homes that are built to a federal code. This code ensures that homes are tough enough to be moved to their destination. It also makes sure that the homes can withstand whatever natural disasters are common in the area they will be placed. This code has evolved over time, which is why we are so fired up about getting new manufactured homes placed. Modern manufactured homes are beautiful, well-built, and energy efficient. Not only are they built to the most up-to-date codes, they are often built in the same factories that build modular homes. In fact, it is often impossible to tell the difference between a modular home and a manufactured home once they are placed. The only difference is in how the house was transported to its forever home and the foundation type.
Myth #3- Manufactured home residents are renters
Most residents of manufactured home communities own their homes and rent the land beneath. Along with the fact that their homes cannot be moved, the fact that homeowners don't have long-term control over the land their home sits on puts them at the mercy of their landlord. Imagine if your landlord could raise rent, but you couldn’t move out! It’s a recipe for exploitation.
Myth #4- Residents can’t afford to run their communities as a cooperative
This is plain false! There are over 300 thriving resident owned manufactured home cooperatives across the country, proving that it is possible for manufactured home residents to run their communities. Housing cooperatives, when supported by assistance organizations like NCF, are a tried and true way to deliver stable housing that is truly community owned. In most of our partner communities, the price for a membership share in the cooperative is $100. For just $100 a homeowner in one of these communities can be an owner of the community. It’s as simple as that!
Myth #5- Residents aren’t capable of running their community
Resident owned community leaders are elected by their neighbors for their experience, passion, and ability to get things done. When supported by organizations like ours, these community leaders blossom into truly inspirational and capable business owners.
