Manufactured Home Living: Smart & Affordable Choices for Older Adults and Seniors

How the rising housing costs are driving more people to consider manufactured home living

What are manufactured homes?

Manufactured homes are prefabricated houses that are built in factories and transported to the site where they are installed. They are different from mobile homes, which are older and less regulated, and modular homes, which are assembled on site from prefabricated sections. Manufactured homes are subject to federal standards for safety, quality, and energy efficiency, and they can be customized to suit the buyer’s preferences and needs.

Why are manufactured homes appealing to older adults and seniors?

One of the main reasons why manufactured homes are appealing to older adults and seniors is the affordability. As the housing market becomes more expensive and competitive, many people are looking for alternative options that can offer them a comfortable and convenient living space without breaking the bank. Manufactured homes can be a great solution for those who want to own their own home, but do not want to pay a fortune for it. According to Tom Turner, owner of PacificCoastHomes.com, a website that showcases manufactured home communities in Oregon, the rising housing costs are driving more people to consider manufactured home living. “We are seeing new buyers in manufactured home communities that would have never thought of it before. They are realizing that the homes are very nice and well built, and they can save a lot of money compared to traditional housing,” he said. Turner added that manufactured homes can cost as low as $150,000, depending on the size, location, and features, while the median home price in Oregon was $411,600 in May 2021, according to Zillow.

Another reason why manufactured homes are appealing to older adults and seniors is the lifestyle. Many manufactured home communities are designed for 55+ residents, who can enjoy the amenities, activities, and social opportunities that cater to their interests and needs. These communities offer a sense of community, security, and fun, where residents can mingle with their neighbors, participate in events and clubs, and access various facilities and services. For example, Longview Hills in Newport and Fairway Villas in Waldport are two manufactured home communities in Oregon that offer golf courses, clubhouses, pools, fitness centers, and more. Turner said that many buyers are enjoying living in these communities, where they can make new friends, stay active, and have fun. “It’s like living in a resort, but with the comfort and convenience of your own home,” he said.

What are the challenges and opportunities for manufactured home living?

Despite the benefits of manufactured home living, there are also some challenges and opportunities that buyers should be aware of. One of the challenges is the financing. Since manufactured homes are considered personal property, not real estate, they are usually financed with chattel loans, which have higher interest rates and shorter terms than conventional mortgages. This can make it harder for some buyers to qualify for a loan, or to pay off their loan faster. Buyers should shop around and compare different options to find the best deal for their situation.

Another challenge is the stigma. Some people may have negative perceptions or stereotypes about manufactured homes and their residents, based on outdated or inaccurate information. They may think that manufactured homes are low-quality, unsafe, or unattractive, or that their residents are poor, uneducated, or undesirable. However, these are not true, as manufactured homes have improved significantly over the years, and their residents are diverse and respectable. Turner said that this is changing, as more people are becoming aware of the quality, variety, and value of manufactured homes. He said that he is working to educate the public and the media about the benefits of manufactured home living, and to showcase the success stories of his customers. “We want to dispel the myths and show the reality of manufactured home living, which is a smart choice for older adults and seniors who want to enjoy their retirement without breaking the bank,” he said.

If you are interested in learning more about manufactured home living, or if you are looking for a manufactured home community in Oregon, you can visit PacificCoastHomes.com, where you can find information, photos, and listings of various communities and homes. You can also contact Tom Turner, who will be happy to answer your questions and help you find your dream home. Manufactured homes are a smart choice for older adults and seniors who want to live affordably, comfortably, and happily. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the benefits of manufactured home living today!