Living the Life of Manufactured Luxury

Have you decided to head south for the winter on a permanent basis, or just to live the life of a seasonal Snowbird? Investing in a mobile home, now referred to as a manufactured home, is a good choice for financial reasons and offers owners the ability to enjoy a comfortable living space.

From a 700 square-foot park model to a 2,200 square-foot luxury option, manufactured homes have come a long way since their inception in the 1940's. These homes are now safer since Congress designated the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to oversee the Federal Manufactured Housing Program in 1974.

Like any custom-built residence, manufactured homes can have simple, standard designs or can include numerous upgrades, depending on the owner's budget. One example of the new world of home building includes luxuries such as a gas fireplace, stainless steel appliances, soaker tub, double bathroom sinks, a butler's pantry, recessed lighting, and a spacious kitchen with an island.

Today's manufactured homes are pre-fabricated in climate-controlled factories. Cabinetry, flooring and window treatments can all be custom designed to suit any taste. You can even add an indoor pool, depending on the size of your lot. However, for the average park, most people would happily settle for a Jacuzzi.

Going GREEN:

Many standard construction projects are now following GREEN requirements. Manufactured homes fit naturally into that category with a design and construction process that saves energy and natural resources while protecting the environment. Rebate incentives are often available to owners who decide to invest in an EnergyStar™ factory-built home, a designation that must meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the EPA.

Landscaping your home:

While residents must adhere to specific rules governing their own park, the general process for landscaping a manufactured home is the same as any other residence. Your creativity and green thumb can make your house stand out from your neighbors with an appearance of serenity and comfort.

For the exterior, there are several ways that you can give your home great curb appeal, even without the actual curb. Investment in small things will make a big difference, including having plenty of bushes and plants surrounding the home. Section off a few feet in front of the trailer, or the entire length, and line it with gardening timbers. Place bushes and other plants in the area, which gives an inviting look and hides the area where the trailer meets the ground. Don't allow the bushes to grow up past windows, though.

Flower gardens can make a big difference for your home. This comes back to your individual tastes and creativity. A birdbath, surrounded by flowers, or a hanging basket or two is a great start. Don't crowd your front yard with too much foliage and shrubbery.