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Home Buyer Trends Show Manufactured Homes & ADUs in High Demand

By jh_admin In Real Estate

The housing market has always been an ever-evolving industry, but one trend that isn’t going anywhere is the increasing appeal of manufactured homes. Both prices and sales of manufactured homes were up last year, with California seeing a price increase between 8.3% and 16.3%, and recorded sales up 28%, according to MHI (Manufactured Housing Institute).

Compared to traditional site-built single-family homes, affordability alone makes manufactured homes a better investment. At the end of 2022, only 17% of California households could afford the median-priced single-family home ($790,020). The lack of affordable housing, particularly in the Golden State, is widespread and has more home buyers looking at manufactured housing.

Although affordability is one of the top reasons homebuyers choose a manufactured home, studies show that many factors play into the decision. Flexibility and customization are also priorities for homebuyers, from size and floorplan to enjoying modern kitchens, designer features, and even porches and attached garages.

Changing family demographics – including aging parents moving in with families and young adults moving home after graduating college – cultural trends, attitude changes, and changes in lifestyles are also top reasons for home buyers wanting a manufactured home. The low-maintenance lifestyle is perfect for busy parents and retirees, while an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) offers additional living space for multi-generational housing, a home office, or other flexible living space.

Manufactured housing is also typically a more environmentally friendly and sustainable housing option, from the construction process and quality, eco-friendly materials used, to living in a more energy-efficient manner. Manufactured homes feature modern insulation, high-efficiency appliances, and HVAC systems, which reduce the homeowner’s carbon footprint.

Community living is also an attractive option for many people, regardless if it is an all-ages or over-55 community. Most manufactured home communities offer a range of amenities and activities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, dog parks, fitness centers, clubhouses, and organized social events.

As both manufactured homes and ADUs grow in popularity, HomeQuest is here to help home buyers select their ideal home and guide them through the process so it’s a seamless and stress-free purchase.