Many individuals and families have aspirations of owning their dream home at some point in their lives. The evolution of housing options has made these ambitions more valid by offering more affordable alternatives like manufactured homes. Although this type of home has gained popularity over traditional brick-and-mortar houses, many wonder whether buying a manufactured home includes the ownership of the land it sits on. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about manufactured homes and the ownership of the land they occupy.
What are manufactured homes?
Manufactured homes, also known as mobile homes or trailers are residential structures that are built in a factory before they are transported to their final destination. These homes are constructed on a steel chassis that allows easier movement from one place to another if necessary. It comes in various sizes, layouts, and styles, offering a wide range of options to potential buyers. These homes are constructed according to federal building codes set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). They offer an efficient and cost-effective housing solution that is often at a lower price point compared to site-built homes.
Land Ownership Models
Manufactured homes are premade and ready to be delivered
- Real Property
There are cases when you buy a manufactured home, you also own the land that it sits on. This is often referred to as fee simple ownership or real property ownership. In these instances, the manufactured home is considered a permanent structure more like a traditional brick-and-mortar house. This ownership model provides a homeowner with full control over the home and the land, allowing for greater stability and potential appreciation in value.
- Leased land
There are other situations where you might own the manufactured home but lease the land it occupies from a landowner or community. It is often a common arrangement that guarantees full ownership of the home itself but you are essentially renting the land it sits on. Although leased land arrangements offer affordability and access to community amenities, it is crucial to carefully review the terms of the land lease agreement.
Legal considerations surrounding land ownership
There can be legal implications when you consider the distinction between owning the land and owning only the home itself. If you own both the manufactured home and the land it sits on, then you have the same rights and responsibilities as a traditional homeowner. This includes zoning regulations, property tax payments, and the ability to make modifications on both the home and the land, as long as they fall within the legal limits.
In cases where you lease the land but own the home, you are obliged to adhere to the rules set by the landowner or the community management. These rules can govern everything from home appearance to maintenance and landscaping. Additionally, you might be subjected to periodic rent increases as indicated in the land lease agreement.
Factors to consider when investing in a manufactured home
The decision to purchase a manufactured home should be guided by your long-term homeownership goals. Real property ownership might be preferable if you are looking for a more stable investment that includes both the home and the land it sits on. However, if your priorities are more about affordability and community living, then a leased land arrangement could be suitable. Keep in mind that buying both the home and the land can be more expensive upfront but may offer potential financial benefits in the long run such as property appreciation. Leased land arrangements may be initially affordable but could incur increased land lease costs over the years.
It is also a good idea to consider the location of your manufactured home. Some regions may have more real property ownership options available while others have a higher prevalence of leased land communities. Homes with real property ownership tend to have better resale value because the land is considered part of the package. On the other side, leased land homes have more limited appreciation potential because you only own the house and not the land it sits on.
The decision to purchase a manufactured home comes with its own set of considerations, especially when it comes to land ownership. Owning the land on which your manufactured home sits can have a huge impact on your rights, responsibilities, and financial outlook as a homeowner. If you are considering leasing the land, it is crucial to carefully read and understand the terms of the lease agreement and assess how your choice aligns with your long-term homeownership goals. This can help you make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences when choosing between a leased land arrangement and owning both the home and the land it sits on.