Q: Where can I get training that is specific to modular home builders?

A: One such place is at Pennsylvania State University’s Penn College of Technology that offers a two-day course known as the Modular Housing Training Institute (MHTI). The course is a partnership between Pennsylvania College of Technology, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Modular Building Systems Association. For more information on the MHTI course please visit their web site at http://www.pct.edu/mhti or contact them by telephone at (570) 327-4768, ext. 3301.

Q: Which magazines are read by people in the modular building industry?

A: Building Systems Magazine is one example of a popular magazine read by modular builders. Information about Building Systems Magazine is available on their web site at: http://www.buildingsystems.com. Information about Building Systems Magazine can be accessed on their web site or by calling (800) 826-3893. 

Q: Am I the middleman between manufacturers and homeowners or do I sell the home directly to the end purchaser?

A: In most instances the manufacturer sells the home directly to the modular builder. The builder completes any necessary finish work to the home at the job site and then sells the home to the homeowner. Other business models exist but this is the traditional (and prevalent) model used by the modular housing industry.

Q: How do I go about purchasing a modular home?

A: You will need to contact a modular manufacturer.

Q: Where can I find a list of modular home manufacturers and who do you recommend?

A: M&T does not make recommendations.* You may find a list of modular home manufacturers on the MBSA web site at http://www.modularhousing.com/members.html. Once there, click on the “Find a Builder” section of the MBSA web site.

Q: Who will transport the modular home to me?

A: Some manufacturers transport modules directly to the job site using their own carriers. Other manufacturers contract with a third party to transport the modules for them. When establishing a relationship with a modular manufacturer be sure to inquire who will be transporting the modules.

Q: How complete will the home be when shipped from the manufacturer and how long does it take to complete the “finish work?”?

A: As a general rule, modular homes are anywhere from 60% to 90% finished when they are delivered. The amount of remaining “finish” work will take anywhere from two (2) to eight (8) weeks depending on the layout, size and intricacy of the house.

Q: What type of work will I need to complete that is not done by the manufacturer?

A: Major considerations such as excavating a foundation and constructing garages or bump-outs will need to be completed by you. Depending on the area, it may also be necessary to drill a well and arrange for a septic system. In addition, any “finish” work that is not completed by the manufacturer will need to be done by you. Examples of “finish work” are:

• Completing the electrical service connection to the panel box as well as any sewer and water connections
• Testing electrical system and install any remaining light fixtures
• Installing the central air conditioning unit, furnace, and completing ductwork connections
• Arranging for the pouring of any concrete slabs, patios, sidewalks, curbs or driveways (don’t forget to contract with a paving company if you’re not using concrete for the driveway)
• Construction of wood decks or porches
• Final grading of the lot
• Arranging for final landscaping work such as sod placement and tree planting
• Sealing any drywall cracks that may have occurred during transport
• Interior clean up and paint touch up

* M&T does not endorse the selection of specific vendors, nor does M&T make representations regarding the quality of any vendor’s work or materials. M&T advocates the value of homebuyers educating themselves regarding the modular homebuilding process.