The Difference Between Manufactured and Modular Homes

Let’s Set the Record Straight on Your Options

So, you’re interested in factory-built housing, but don’t know where to start. We get it! The world of pre-fabricated homes is vast and full of options, so you’ll definitely want to know which of those options work best for you and your lifestyle. When it comes to manufactured homes and modular homes, knowing the difference can take you a long way. So, let’s get into it!

Manufactured Homes 

Manufactured homes have actually been around longer than you might think. You’ve likely heard manufactured homes referred to as mobile homes in your day-to-day conversations. Before 1976 when the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code was developed, they were referred to as mobile homes. After the HUD code was developed, they were and still are referred to as manufactured. Same type of home, but manufactured homes of today meet the regulations of the HUD code. 

Check out our manufactured homes blog for more detailed information if you’re interested.

  • Manufactured home exterior
  • Manufactured home dining room
  • Manufactured home kitchen
  • Manufactured home kitchen
  • Manufactured home built-in shelves
  • Manufactured home living room
  • Manufactured home primary bedroom
  • Manufactured home primary bathroom

Modular Homes 

A modular home is a home that is also built in a climate-controlled indoor factory, but to a local state code, such as the International Residential Code, or IRC. You may often hear modular homes described as “prefabricated homes.” A modular home is built in sections, or modules, which are then delivered to and assembled on the home site. A modular home is more comparable to a site-built home in details like its available financing through more traditional mortgages and the local codes to which it is built.  

Check out our modular homes blog for more detailed information if you’re interested.

  • Modular home exterior
  • Modular home kitchen
  • Modular home kitchen
  • Modular home living room
  • Modular home primary bath
  • Modular home primary bath shower
  • Modular home primary bedroom

Similarities & Differences 

The main similarity you’ll find between manufactured and modular homes is that they’re both built in a climate-controlled factory by skilled craftspeople who do the same thing every day. All of our scrap material is used somewhere in the home instead of being piled and thrown away like in site-built homes.  

The main difference you’ll find between manufactured and modular homes is the codes to which they are built. The HUD code can differ from the code of a specific state, town or county, and this all helps to determine what kind of house can be built and where. For example, a home built to the HUD Code for delivery in Massachusetts could be very different from a home built to local the Massachusetts modular code.. And that’s just one state!  

Bottom line: we’re building homes to the right code for the right regions.  

Whether you’re looking to go the manufactured route or the modular route, factory-built provides the advantages you’ll want and need as a new homeowner. Browse our floorplans today and find the home of your dreams. 

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How to Determine Your Design Style(s) 

Figure out how to make your home feel like “you” every time you walk in.

It goes without saying that design and décor are hugely important when it comes to purchasing a home. You want your home to be a retreat; to welcome you back warmly every time you return. And, design plays an integral role in that. That’s why we seek to offer you cutting-edge design choices, so that you can love everything about the place you call your own.  

Where Design Style Comes into Play 

  • Cabinets 
  • Countertops 
  • Tiles and flooring 

Design Styles for the Traditional at Heart 

Farmhouse – a style which values simplicity and rustic charm. In farmhouse you’ll find quintessential dedications to rural architecture, mixed in with pieces of modernity. 

Classic – true to its name, classic style features ornate detailing, often with an ode to nature in some way. You’ll also find texture and patterns, to add personality. 

Nautical – an age-old style that adds coolness to the place. Nautical brings what you love most about the coastal lifestyle into your home by focusing on key colors and elements. 

Design Styles for the Trend-Aware 

Contemporary – a style that fully understands subtle sophistication, contemporary is bold in its use of texture. Key features include clean lines, bold colors and shape, creating a finish that is sleek and fresh. 

Mid-Century Modern – a style that has stood the test of time, mid-century modern finds the perfect balance between muted tones and vibrant colors, natural and manmade pieces, indoor and outdoor motifs. 

Modern Nordic – this minimalistic style takes a fresh approach by using a blend of textures. Modern Nordic prioritizes utility and functionality in tandem with aesthetics. 

Design Styles for the Stylishly Offbeat 

Contemporary Abstract 

Scandinavian – Similar, but not identical to Nordic styles, Scandinavian is meant to be a bit warmer and more inviting. This added coziness gives style a comfortable appeal. 

Boho Shabby Chic – a beautiful marriage of already complementary styles, boho shabby chic combines gentle hues and textures with bold splashes of bohemian colors and patterns. Bohemian adds punchy character to shabby chic, and the shabby chic softens up intensity of the bohemian. 

It’s perfectly fine (and even encouraged!) if your design style is a mix of one or two different ones. You aren’t one-dimensional, and it’s unlikely that your décor interests will be as well. Think of your home design as a “flow,” meaning think of how each room can peacefully transition into another. This may mean thinking of complementary colors or standout pieces. Above all, remember to get creative with it! A home is never fully “finished,” and that’s a good thing!  

What would you say your design style is?