Manufactured or mobile home financing refers to the process of obtaining a loan to purchase or refinance a manufactured home, which is a type of factory-built housing. Manufactured homes are constructed in a controlled environment and then transported to the intended location. These homes can be single-wide (one unit) or double-wide (two units joined together), and they come in various sizes and styles.
Financing options for manufactured or mobile homes can include:
- Chattel Loans: Chattel loans are a common type of financing for manufactured homes. These loans are similar to personal property loans and are used when the home is not affixed to a permanent foundation. The home is considered personal property, like a vehicle, and is financed with a chattel loan. These loans often have higher interest rates compared to traditional mortgage loans.
- FHA Title I Loans: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers Title I loans for the purchase or refinancing of manufactured homes. These loans are insured by the FHA and can be used for both single-wide and double-wide homes.
- VA Loans: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers loans for eligible veterans to purchase or refinance manufactured homes. Similar to FHA loans, VA loans are backed by the government, making them more accessible to certain borrowers.
- Conventional Loans: Some lenders offer conventional mortgage loans for qualified borrowers who are purchasing a manufactured home that is permanently affixed to a foundation and meets certain criteria. These loans may have more stringent requirements compared to chattel loans.
- Personal Loans: Borrowers with strong credit may be able to obtain a personal loan to finance a manufactured home. Personal loans typically have higher interest rates than mortgage loans and might be used for smaller loan amounts.
- In-House Financing: Some manufactured home dealers and communities offer in-house financing options to buyers. These arrangements can vary widely in terms of interest rates, down payments, and terms.
- Land-Home Packages: If you're purchasing both the manufactured home and the land it will be placed on, you might be able to obtain a conventional mortgage loan that covers both the home and the property. This can provide more favorable terms compared to chattel loans.
It's important to note that the availability of financing options for manufactured homes can vary based on factors such as the type of home, its location, your credit history, and the lender's policies. Before pursuing manufactured home financing, it's recommended to research different lenders, compare loan terms and interest rates, and thoroughly understand the terms of the loan you're considering.