All About
Manufactured Homes
Have questions? We've got answers! Browse our frequently asked questions below. If you don’t find what you are looking for, please contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.
Manufactured Home Basics
The Building Process
Financing
Where You Can Build
Definitions
Replacing in a Park
Selling in a Park
Buying in a Park
Manufactured Home Basics
Do Factory-Built Homes Use the Same Building Materials as Site-Built Homes?
Yes—manufactured and modular homes are built with the same durable, high-quality materials used in traditional site-built construction. You will find everything from architectural shingles, energy-efficient windows, real wood cabinetry to premium insulation, moisture-resistant subflooring, and durable, fire-resistant exterior siding. These homes are built to meet or exceed national building standards, offering durability and long-term comfort. We invite you to tour our model homes and experience firsthand the quality, construction, and attention to detail that set today’s manufactured homes apart.
Are Manufactured Homes Safe?
Yes — modern manufactured homes are extremely safe, thanks to strict federal regulations, improved construction materials, and advanced building technologies. Since June 15, 1976, all manufactured homes have been built to meet or exceed the standards set by the HUD Code — a national building code enforced by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This code covers everything from structural integrity, fire resistance, and electrical systems to plumbing, heating, ventilation, and energy efficiency. In fact, manufactured homes must be designed to withstand high wind zones, heavy snow loads, and seismic activity. Every home also undergoes multiple inspections throughout the building process, which is often more than a site-built home.
Do Manufactured Homes Last as Long as Traditionally Built Homes?
Yes, they can. Just as with a traditionally built home, a well-maintained home will last. Many manufactured homes from the 1960s are still lived in today! And, construction and standards have only improved over time.
Are Manufactured Home Floor Plans Customizable?
Yes, we often make adjustments such as enlarging a room, moving a window or door and so on.
What Kinds of Features Are Available?
You will find luxurious features — like 9-foot ceilings, glamorous master baths with jetted tubs, custom solid wood cabinetry, quartz, and granite topped islands, clerestory windows, French doors and even fireplaces with solid stone accents. There are many beautiful flooring options including everything from premium vinyl plank to real hardwood, from travertine tiles to plush carpeting. Explore our photo gallery and start your search for the dream home that fits your lifestyle.
Can I Put Solar on a Manufactured Home?
Yes. Of course, it will depend on the weight of the solar system you select and the weight limits of the roof of the manufactured home you select.
Are Appliances and Air Conditioning Included?
All homes come complete with an A/C vent system included. A/C condenser and/or minisplits are installed on site at an additional cost if desired. Each home includes a standard appliance package, with numerous customization options to personalize your home.
Can I Customize My New Home and the Floor Plan?
Yes! Your new home can be fully customized to match your vision. From garages and decks to tech spaces, porches, or any unique feature you imagine, we will bring it to life.
Are Energy‑Efficient or “Green” Options Available?
Yes! Modern manufactured homes are built for energy efficiency, with upgraded insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, LED lighting, and water-saving fixtures. Many also include ENERGY STAR®‑ready appliances and solar-ready options, helping lower utility bills compared to older homes.
The Building Process
How Long Does It Take to Build a Manufactured Home or ADU?
Timeframes vary. A manufactured home or ADU can often be built in 3-6 months, depending on permits and site work needed. If you are replacing a home in a community park and already have all of your utilities to the site, the process can be much shorter – even just 4-6 weeks.
Do I Have to Get Permits Myself?
No, not when working with Pacific Manufactured Homes. We handle the permit process for you.
What Is the First Step to Take If I Want a Manufactured Home or ADU?
The best first step is to connect with one of our experienced team members. They’ll guide you through the entire process—from zoning and permitting requirements in your specific area to financing options, timelines, and home selection—so you know exactly what to expect from the start.
We also encourage you to visit our model home displays in San Marcos, Beaumont, Corona, or Hemet to explore your options in person and get a better feel for what’s possible.
What Is the Process Of Buying a New Manufactured Home?
Watch a Video About the Process Here
Financing
How Much Does a Manufactured Home or ADU Cost in California?
The cost of a manufactured home or ADU in California varies based on size, location, and finishes. In Southern California, prices can start around $90 per square foot. On average, manufactured homes are roughly 40% less expensive than traditional site-built homes, making them an affordable alternative without sacrificing quality.
Where Can I Find Information About Financing a Manufactured Home or ADU?
Pacific Manufactured Homes will handle everything from your pre-approval through closing. We have the expertise to guide you through the financing process and have a full-time Finance Department that can explain the different types of loans available for your project. We guarantee to get the best lending possible for you.
Where You Can Build
Where Can I Place a Manufactured Home?
Typically, anywhere a traditionally built residential home can be placed, a manufactured home can also be placed. We place homes in cities and suburbs, on rural land and in manufactured home neighborhoods/parks.
Can I Put a Manufactured Home or ADU on Any Piece of Land in Southern California?
Zoning requirements apply to manufactured homes, just like traditionally built homes. Pacific Manufactured Home team members are happy to give you an overview of what to look for in selecting a lot.
What If I Need a Well or Septic System?
No problem, Pacific Manufactured Homes manages well installations, septic systems, and more.
What if My Lot is Small or Oddly Shaped?
No problem! We specialize in placing homes on small or uniquely shaped lots. Every home can be customized to fit your space, whether it is a backyard, a tight corner, or a mobile home park community.
Can an ADU Be Put on Top of a Garage?
Yes, an ADU can absolutely be built above a garage. While it does require more detailed structural planning, especially to ensure the garage can support the additional load, it is a fully permitted and increasingly popular option for maximizing space.
Do You Work With Tribal Reservations?
We have placed many homes on tribal reservations, often serving multiple generations of the same family. The process can be extremely fast because the city or county permitting is not required.
Definitions
Is There a Difference Between Manufactured, Modular and Mobile Homes?
These terms are often used interchangeably depending on whom you ask. ‘Mobile Home’ is an outdated term, as is “trailer.” Today’s Manufactured homes are homes built to strict federal building code called the HUD Code, which was established in 1976. They are built on a permanent steel frame or chassis inside a clean, dry factory on multi-million-dollar equipment by full-time professionals under strict supervision. Once built, we transport the home to your site for installation. Modular homes are also factory-built but follow a different set of local building codes. Both are constructed indoors for precision and quality — the difference is classification.
What Does “ADU” Stand For?
“ADU” is an acronym for Accessory Dwelling Unit. An ADU, commonly referred to as a backyard home or granny flat, is a secondary home on a lot that already has a primary home. In general, ADUs need to be under 1,200 square feet and smaller than the main home. However, some zip codes restrict ADUs to a smaller size.
Manufactured Home Parks
Replacing in a Park
Can I Upgrade My Home or Replace It with a New One in the Same Space?
Yes, Pacific Manufactured Homes regularly replaces old homes with brand new ones. Upgrading can involve removing or selling your old home, permits, and installation of a new home. See our Replace Your Home page for more information.
What is Involved in the Replacement Process?
We manage the entire process from start to finish. This includes removing your existing home, designing your new one, securing city and community permits, preparing the lot, delivering, and installing your home, and adding optional features like garages, carports, sheds, walkways, stairs, awnings, landscaping, and more!
Can I Customize my New Home and the Floor Plan?
Yes! Your new home can be fully customized to match your vision. From garages and decks to tech spaces, porches, or any unique feature—including accessibility modifications for easier living—we’ll help bring your dream floor plan to life.
How Long Does It Take to Replace My Home?
From move-out to move-in, most replacements take approximately 75–90 days.
Do Community Park Rules Affect What Kind of Replacement Home I Can Have?
While some mobile home parks have rules about size, or style, most welcome and encourage replacement homes because they upgrade the property. We work closely with parks to ensure your new home meets all requirements.
Is It Worth Replacing an Old Home Versus Renovating?
Renovations can be costly and time-consuming. A new manufactured home comes with standard warranties on all components—up to 30 years on the roof— giving you long-term peace of mind.
Are Appliances and Air Conditioning Included?
All homes come complete with an A/C vent system included. A/C condenser and/or minisplits are installed on site at an additional cost if desired. Each home includes a standard appliance package, with numerous customization options to personalize your home.
Are Energy‑Efficient or Green Options Available?
Yes! Modern manufactured homes are built for energy efficiency, with upgraded insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, LED lighting, and water-saving fixtures. Many also include ENERGY STAR®‑ready appliances and solar-ready options, helping lower utility bills compared to older homes.
Will I Have to Move Out Temporarily During Installation?
You will need to relocate for a short time. Some people stay with relatives, take a vacation, or we can assist with temporary relocation. We can also help move your furniture and belongings!
Do You Accept Trade-Ins for Old Homes?
Yes, we have various trade-in programs depending on a few key factors. Contact us to learn more about your options!
What Happens to My Old Mobile Home?
Often, older homes are repurposed, relocated, or donated to help others, ensuring they do not go to waste. The outcome depends on each home and its age and condition.
Can I Get a Loan if My Community Space is Rented?
Of course, as loans for homes in those parks are quite common and widely available. Our financing team can help you explore the best options.
Selling in a Park
How Can I Determine the Value of My Manufactured Home?
The easiest way is to schedule a FREE home evaluation with our team. Since we sell manufactured homes every day, we know what buyers are paying in today’s market. We evaluate everything from location and lot position to condition, upgrades, and market activity to give you a realistic and competitive value.
How Long Will It Take to Sell My House?
Timelines can vary based on pricing, condition, and location. We focus on getting your home in front of qualified buyers right away to help speed up the process. Did you know that Pacific Manufactured Homes sells more manufactured homes than anyone in the entire state of California? We are #1!
Do I Need to Make Repairs Before Selling?
Many homes sell in “as-is” condition and even sight unseen. Of course, some repairs and maintenance may improve your sale price, and cosmetic upgrades can appeal to more buyers, but they are not a necessity.
Buying in a Park
I Want to Buy a Manufactured Home in a Community, Where Should I Begin?
Getting started is easy—connect with one of our experienced, licensed team members at any of our seven locations. We will help you find the right home and community to fit your lifestyle and needs. Also, check out our current homes for sale on our Listings page.
What About Age Restrictions?
Manufactured home communities are available for all ages. Active adult communities are typically for those 55 and older, with some allowing spouses 45 and up. “All Ages” parks welcome families. Our team can help you find the community that best fits your needs.
What Is the Difference Between “Land Lease” Park and “Land Owned” Park?
In a land lease park, you pay a monthly fee to lease the lot your home sits on. In a land-owned park, you own both the home and the land. Other variations also exist, and our team can help you understand which options will work best for you.
