The Best Modular Home Manufacturers In The U.S.

If you have your heart set on a modular home, choosing the right manufacturer can make all the difference. Modular homes aren’t one size fits all, and neither are their manufacturers.

Let’s explore the top modular home manufacturers so you can make an informed decision about the best modular home builder for your needs.

The Difference Between Manufactured And Modular Homes

Although both types of prefab homes are relatively cost-effective housing solutions, manufactured and modular homes come with some differences.

A modular home involves multiple factory-made pieces that are assembled on a home site. A key feature of modular homes is their structure, which is permanently attached to the land by way of a traditional foundation. In contrast, manufactured homes are built in sections on a steel chassis – which may not be affixed to the land – for a single or multi-width space.

In many cases, it’s easier to get a traditional mortgage on a modular home. Since manufactured homes may be moved, it can be harder to secure financing for them.

The Top Modular Home Manufacturers

Modular homes come in all shapes and sizes. As the homeowner, you can select the features and floor plan that suit your needs and budget. Below is an overview of some top modular home manufacturers.

Clayton Homes

Clayton Homes made the list of top modular home manufacturers due to its relatively affordable price points, ample options and fast timelines. Prospective homeowners nationwide can find homes starting at around $60 per square foot.

The company has earned multiple Excellence in Manufactured Housing Awards from the Manufactured Housing Institute. Beyond the award-winning homes, Clayton’s short timelines are very enticing – moving into your new home is possible in as little as 8 weeks.

Throughout the process, you’ll find plenty of tools at your disposal. After you purchase the home, you’ll enjoy a basic warranty. If you want more peace of mind, however, you can upgrade your coverage to a 5- or 10-year warranty plan.

Champion Homes

Champion Homes has been around for over 70 years and offers an extensive selection of floor plans. As you explore your options, a virtual tour feature can help you truly visualize what the space has to offer.

If you’re a prospective homeowner, the floor plans serve as a starting point for your customizations. You can add a wide range of details to suit your needs, including everything from gourmet kitchens to architectural features.

Impresa Modular

Homeowners looking for extensive customization options will enjoy Impresa Modular’s offerings. The company offers a wide selection of floor plans and designs, and you can design your home entirely from scratch.

Project Homestyler, the company’s interactive design tool, offers a simple and functional way to bring your dream to life. Depending on your customizations, the costs typically range from around $200 to $245 per square foot.

Once you choose a home, the turnaround time often ranges from 3 to 4 months, and the home can be installed anywhere in the nation. The company offers a worthwhile option for anyone looking for a highly customized home.

Commodore Homes

Commodore Homes offers a selection of modular homes that won’t break the bank. When you work with the company, you can access a comprehensive budgeting calculator to add up all your projected costs. For example, electrical hook-ups and site construction estimates are all considered in your bottom line.

Although budget-friendly, the exact costs of Commodore Homes options are difficult to uncover. Likewise, information on lead times is limited. However, you’ll have a good idea of the cost when you price out your desired home.

One limiting factor is that more than 10 states don’t offer Commodore Homes.

Deer Valley Homebuilders

Deer Valley Homebuilders offers worthwhile options for homeowners seeking energy-efficient homes made with high-quality materials. According to the company, these priorities create healthy built homes.

Through the company, you’ll find four families of homes – each with a unique theme. But these homes are a jumping-off point for any customizations you may want to add. Overall, the home style tends to lean toward modern with an emphasis on country charm.

One downside is Deer Valley Homebuilders’ geographic limits. The company’s products are for the most part only available in the Southeast U.S.

Blu Homes

Blu Homes offers four styles of single-family homes, ranging from around 600 square feet to 2,100 square feet. From this starting point, you can add custom design elements to give the house everything you had in mind.

The company focuses on an energy-efficient build with a modern aesthetic.

When you work with Blu Homes, you can expect the home to be ready for move-in within 3 months. After placing your order, the price is locked in to avoid the headaches of additional costs along the way.

The homes come with a 10-year structural warranty, a 2-year systems warranty and a 1-year workmanship warranty. This combination of warranties can help protect your wallet for years to come.

How To Choose A Modular Home Builder In 9 Steps

Finding the right builder is a vital part of the process when opting for a modular home. With the right builder, making your modular home dreams come true is more likely. The wrong builder could put a wrench in your modular home plans.

Below are some tips for deciding which modular home manufacturer will build your dream home with the craftsmanship you’re seeking.

1. Consider Their Floor Plans

The floor plans offered by a modular home builder are arguably the most important factor. For prospective homeowners, the layout and size of the home can significantly impact your quality of life and your ability to complete household tasks and enjoy your home to the fullest.

When considering potential builders, examine their floor plans. Even if a builder checks every other box, the lack of a suitable floor plan can be a dealbreaker.

2. Pay Attention To Their Custom Options

The customizations you add to a house can make it feel like home. As you start your home-builder search, consider making a list of what you’d love to have in your home.

For example, you might crave the architectural interest of vaulted ceilings. If that’s on your wish list, confirm that the builder can make this customization. Scan the list of customizations to verify the builder can create a house that suits your style.

3. Read Reviews

Reading the reviews of any business can be a remarkably eye-opening experience. The internet makes it easy to find customer reviews before moving forward with a major purchase. You likely want to work with a company that has stellar reviews. If a company consistently earns terrible customer reviews, it’s best to steer clear.

Even if you decide to work with a company with mediocre reviews, you’ll know what to watch out for. For example, if customer reviews consistently point to a delayed timeline, you can factor that into your plans.

4. Consider Customer Service

Customer service is a key part of any purchase, but helpful customer service is especially important when purchasing a modular home.

Confirm that the customer service hours align with your schedule. For example, a customer service office that closes at 5 p.m. every day might not be compatible with your work schedule. It’s better to find this out before signing up to work with a company.

5. Ask About Turnaround Time

A home purchase ultimately results in a new place to call home. However, the length of the construction process is a big deal for anyone moving into a new home. Take a look at the turnaround time for any manufacturer you’re considering.

If you have questions about the timeline, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s better to know about potential delays upfront because it’s easier to make alternative housing arrangements in advance.

Also, consider the demand for a company. While high demand for a company’s homes is a good sign, it might impact your timeline. Be clear on the expected time frame before signing on the dotted line.

6. Learn About The Materials They Use

A home is only as strong as the materials used to build it. High-quality materials can help your home last for decades. Opt for a builder providing homes made from high-quality materials.

If you aren’t thrilled about a particular building material, consider asking about a switch. For example, if you prioritize sustainability, you may prefer some materials over others. If the builder is unwilling to accommodate your request, it might be time to find a different option.

7. Examine Their Warranties

No one wants to find an issue with their home. However, a factory mistake could lead to big problems down the line. A warranty can help you avoid those costs.

Take a close look at the warranty options a manufacturer offers. Many manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty, but some offer extended warranty options. If you want more peace of mind, a more extended warranty might do the trick.

8. Determine Your Price Range

Different modular home manufacturers offer homes in various price ranges. While some provide value-based options, others offer extensive customizations that increase the cost of your home.

As you consider different options, look for a builder that offers options in your price range. When crunching the numbers, don’t forget to include the costs beyond the build, including site preparation, utilities, taxes and fees. Costs vary based on location, but determining a good estimate of your extra costs will help when pricing out your home purchase.

9. Know What’s Available In Your Area

Some modular home manufacturers offer options for prospective homeowners around the country. However, others have a limited range of geographic availability. As a buyer, you’ll need to confirm the company is able and willing to deliver to your area.

FAQs About Modular Home Manufacturers

If you still have questions about modular home manufacturers, we have answers.

What’s the difference between manufactured home builders and modular home builders?

Manufactured home builders provide homes with the ability to move, while modular home builders create homes designed to be installed on a traditional foundation.

Additionally, modular homes have to stand up to the building codes of the area. Manufactured home builders must meet building codes set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Do modular home builders have to follow state building codes?

Yes. Modular homes must follow state, local or regional building codes and are held to the same standard as site-built homes.

Are modular homes more expensive than manufactured homes?

In general, modular homes are more expensive than manufactured homes.

Is working with a modular home builder better than buying a manufactured home?

It depends on your goals and plans, including how long you intend to live in the home. Modular home builders create homes that often appreciate better than manufactured homes. However, manufactured homes are often a more affordable option.

The Bottom Line: Find The Best Modular Home Builder For You

Modular homes offer a relatively affordable path to homeownership and can be an especially good option if you’re keen on saving money. As the home buyer, you can create a customized layout that suits your needs and your budget, while likely cutting some costs in the process.

If you’re interested in buying a modular or more standard home, you can Start an application with Rocket Mortgage^® to explore financing options.