What is a modular home?
Modular homes are constructed in a climate controlled environment, free from outdoor factors that can damage a stick built home. We use the same brand name materials and build to the same code requirements as site builders. State and independent third party inspectors inspect each home that is built at many stages throughout the building process. Once the "boxes" of your home are constructed at the factory, complete with attached walls, floor, ceiling, wiring, plumbing, and interior fixtures, they are shipped on carriers to your building site, erected on the foundation by a set crew and crane. Most modular buildings can be fully set on-site and weather-tight in as little as one day, depending on the size of the structure. Once complete, modular homes are indistinguishable from stick built homes.

What are the benefits of going modular?
Modular homes are built in a fraction of the time a comparable custom site-built home could be constructed. Manufacturers are able to purchase materials in bulk and store these materials for a longer amount of time than most conventional builders - when material costs increase, so does the savings of bulk buying - making modular homes more cost effective.

How does a modular home differ from a "manufactured or mobile home"?
Manufactured homes, or mobile homes, are built to HUD codes, a national code for manufactured housing, as set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The HUD code, unlike conventional state building codes used by modular home manufacturers and site builders, require manufactured homes to be built on non-removable steel chassis. Many neighborhoods exclude manufactured homes, but accept modular homes because they are built to the same code as stick built homes. Modular homes are built to individual state and local building codes and are designed to be placed permanently on a foundation or crawl space.

Are modular homes "green"?
Green building is a practice of using sustainable materials and designs in new construction. Yes, modular homes are by their very nature green. Assembly in an enclosed environment contributes to reduced waste of material at the factory and at the job site, lessens the environmental impact on the land and the community where the house is being delivered, and allows for a tighter built structure to maximize energy efficiency - all of which are key components to green building standards. The construction process of modular homes allows for easier identification and filling of gaps around pipes, electrical outlets, windows, doors, and exterior sheathing. Not only does this make modular homes tighter, but it also allows for less infiltration and advanced energy efficiency, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs for the homeowner.

How long does it take to build a modular home?
The time it takes to build a modular home varies by season and the manufacturer's order backlog. One of the advantages of building a modular home is the speed of construction. The order backlog typically runs 5-10 weeks. While your home is on order the site work on your building lot will be completed. On average a home consisting of two "boxes" will take about 6 days to build in the factory. After delivery to the site and setting the home of the foundation, Superior takes about 4 to 8 weeks to finish the home. Our time frame depends on the amount of additional site work, such as garages, porches or decks that are to be built, and our backlog of other homes that need finished.

Are modular homes covered by any warranty?
Yes. Superior Homes provides a one year warranty for drywall cracks, etc. The manufacturer provides a 10 Year Structural Warranty through Residential Warranty Corporation. In addition, many of the brand name components of the home come with their own warranty - siding, shingles, any appliances provided, etc.

Can I build a custom plan of my own design?
Yes. Many of our customer start with our "standard" floor plans and then present their ideas and changes to us. You can also send in a rough plan on scratch paper of the layout you had in mind, and we will draw and price the home out for you.

How do I finance a modular home?
Mortgage lenders treat modular homes the same as stick-built homes and offer the same mortgage options. Modular homes are also treated the same as stick-built homes when it comes to appraisals and insurance. Modular homes appreciate in value at the same rate comparable to site built homes.

What is my next step?
Please contact our sales team to get more information about home designs and options that meet your needs.

Process

1. Land

The first step is to find land on which to build your home. Once you have obtained your land and determined your ability to obtain financing, your design process can begin.

2. Basic Design

We have many floor plans to choose from, or design your own! Make any necessary changes to our existing floor plans, or fine tune the ones we designed for you. Superior Homes will provide you with a specification sheet outlining all the specifications in your home.

3. Approvals

When you have approved the plans and the specifications provided by Superior Homes, we will need $1,500.00 for stamped prints to present to your township to obtain your building permit. When you have obtained your building permit, we can finalize the contract on our end. If not already done, you can choose from our many options for siding, flooring, countertops, shingles, etc. We can then order your home with the first draw from your construction loan.

4. Construction

As your home is being built, your contractor will proceed with the site preparation and construction, and a date will be set for the arrival of your home to your site. Once the home arrives and is set on your foundation, the second draw on your loan will pay for the balance of the modular home. Additional draws will be dispersed from your bank for payment to contractors doing the work on your site. When construction is completed, a certificate of occupancy is issued by your township. Your loan then converts from a construction loan into a permanent mortgage and you are ready to move into your new home!