QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is a manufactured home?
Manufactured homes are the only housing in America built to a national building code. Manufactured homes are a dwelling that is wholly or substantially built in a factory with major components then delivered to the building site for assembly. Manufactured homes offer all the quality and amenities you want at a price you can afford.

What is the difference between a mobile home and a manufactured home?

Mobile Homes. These homes were constructed to comply with standards enforced by the State of California prior to June 15, 1976, when the federal preemptive HUD Code became effective. Mobile homes have not been constructed since this date.

Manufactured Home. The manufactured home is constructed to comply with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, a uniform building standard administered and enforced by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD Code). Over 97 percent of all homes constructed in California factories meet this code.

Where can I put a manufactured home?
State Law allows manufactured homes to be put anywhere zoned for residential use. There are also manufactured home communities/mobile home parks throughout San Diego.

Can my manufactured home be moved to another location?
Yes! Make sure you use a transport company that is familiar with the laws for moving such structures. You should also consider the zone for which the manufactured home was originally constructed. Check the data plate for zoning information.
Climate differences and the cost of moving your manufactured home might make it more practical to sell it and purchase another at your new location.

Who will finance my manufactured home?
We have different lenders who we work with on a regular basis and have established good business relationships with. When you are ready to purchase, Town & Country will help you find a program to meet your financial needs.

Is my new manufactured home covered by warranty?
Definitely! The warranty covers the home and its systems during a stated period of time. The warranty period will vary by the manufacturer. Most appliances are covered by there own warranties. Check with your Town & Country agent for more details.

What kind of insulation do manufactured homes have?
Manufactured homes have residential grade insulation factors.

Are pets allowed in mobile home parks?
Absolutely. Lots of parks tend to have size or breed requirements for dogs and a minimum on the number of pets allowed. It is best to tell your agent at the beginning of your home search what kind of pets you have.

Do I have to pay any taxes on my manufactured home?
Yes, depending on the age of the home it could be on registration (for older homes) or local property taxes. If it is on local property taxes, you will only pay taxes on the value of the home if it is set up in a manufactured home park. If it is on private land on a permanent foundation regular property taxes will apply.

What is a senior park?
In order to qualify for a senior park at least one person in the home must be 55 or older, then depending on the park there are secondary age requirements.

Are there any tax advantages to owning a manufactured home?
Yes! The interest on your mortgage is tax deductible. If you are in a mobile home park, you will not pay property taxes (however you will pay taxes on your home).

How would a bankruptcy, bad credit, or not having a steady job affect my chances for qualifying?
Since everyone’s credit history is different, we take this on a case-by-case basis. There are a number of possibilities; a larger down payment could be one solution to make you eligible.

How does living in a manufactured home compare with what I would get from renting an apartment?
Generally speaking, for the same rent as a 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment, you could have a brand new 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home. You also have the feeling of a standard home and wouldn’t be sharing any walls with neighbors.