Today’s double-wide homes are truly a sight to behold. Gone are the days when there was a certain stigma attached to mobile home living. Thanks to the tiny house movement, people now see what is a double-wide manufactured home for what it really is — a lot more bang for your buck.
Of course, you may be wondering what exactly the difference is between your average single-wide and a double-wide mobile home?
Well, one of the significant differences is that double-wide manufactured homes are put together onsite. The reason you do not have this same issue with a single-wide mobile home is that they are simply easier to transport. Double-wides, on the other hand, need to be shipped in two halves that are later put together for you (find out how much it costs to move a manufactured home here).
Now that you have a better understanding of the difference between the two, let’s talk about everything you need to know regarding a double-wide manufactured home, and the pros and cons of a double-wide.
Double-Wide Manufactured Homes
Size
Clearly, a double-wide home offers you more living space than a single-wide. However, this size of square footage is still less than that of a traditional home.
Generally, double-wides offer anywhere from 1,100 to 2,300 square feet of living space. In terms of overall width, double-wides tend to start at approximately 20 feet, and go up to 36 feet. In contrast, single-wide manufactured homes typically offer 750 to 1,050 square feet of living space, have a width of 14 to 18 feet, and tend to be on the longer side.
There are also triple, or multi-wide, manufactured homes, but that’s a discussion for another time.
Finally, the height of manufactured homes is regulated by local, state, and federal transportation limits, i.e. no mobile home can have a height above 13 feet and 6 inches.
Modern Features
Double-wide mobile homes are the middle child, but they are closer to a traditional house in the sense that they are more proportional and offer similar square footage. Furthermore, because of this expansive double-wide modular design, there is more room for custom floor plans, and newer models can easily pull off the contemporary open concept design scheme.
Open concept layouts, or floor plans, typically feature high ceilings, ample natural light, and an overall airy feel. Learn the answer to “should I build a house or buy a manufactured home” here.
One common feature of this particular manufactured design scheme is a connected kitchen. Here, the kitchen seamlessly works with other living spaces to create a relaxed environment that is ideal for entertaining and everyday life. Open concept design schemes of luxury double-wide manufactured housing also include state-of-the-art bathrooms and plenty of custom storage. Learn about how double-wide mobile homes are built here.
Savings Abound
Besides having real contemporary design potential and an abundance of living space, these manufactured homes are reasonably priced. Sure, smaller mobile homes are the most inexpensive option here; but if you are looking for a decent amount of living space, then double-wide mobile homes fit the bill. Review our tips for buying a manufactured home here.
What’s more, double-wide mobile homes are still more affordable than your traditional sized modern homes. Here, in Michigan, you can find real savings by purchasing double-wide homes. Plus, you cannot beat your reduction in monthly utility bills or lack of financial responsibility, due to regular community manufactured home maintenance, when you live in a double-wide that is in a mobile home park. Remember, newer double-wide models have all the trimmings, including being energy-efficient manufactured homes by having environmentally-friendly features. Learn how to buy a mobile home for sale in Michigan here.
Financing
If you choose to finance your future double-wide manufactured home, it is now easier than ever. Since tiny houses and mobile living have really taken off in the last decade, lenders are far more willing to offer financing. Learn more on how to finance a manufactured home here.
Once upon a time, there was a higher risk associated with mobile homes, however times have changed. Not only can you find a variety of financing options now, but you still typically borrow less than you would if you were financing a traditional sized house. Even many Michigan manufactured home communities, and sellers, provide in-house financing these days, such as chattel financing.
Plus, many manufactured homes start in the mid $30,000s, and go up from there; thus, a mortgage for a $30,000 double-wide, with contemporary features, would be a steal, and definitely more affordable, compared to renting an apartment.
Transportation
As briefly mentioned, transporting a double-wide home takes two trips or, preferably, two delivery trucks. Clearly, you want to coordinate delivery so both halves of your home show up at the same time, if possible.
The average cost of transporting your home can cost you roughly $10,000 to $15,000. This typically works out to $5 to $10 per mile for long-distance deliveries. Of course, short distances are much cheaper, but keep in mind that many movers do charge a standard short-move fee, which could very well range from $1,000 to $5,000.
Keep in mind that this is just a general look at transport pricing; thus, it helps to get quotes from local movers and compare costs. With that being said, do not forget to inquire about a transportation permit for your double-wides. Though the cost of these permits is often nominal, there are other fees associated (prep and setup costs, escort vehicle fees, and insurance) with moving your double-wide, especially if you are crossing state lines.
Installation
Once you have the two sections of your dream at their intended homesite, then it’s time to get to work. Known as the setup, your moving crew will put your home together for you and ensure that it is level, as well as securely assembled.
Once your double-wide is constructed and level, the moving crew will remove the transport tires/wheels and place your home on permanent blocking.
Next, your double-wide will be trimmed out — this is the process of finishing the roof, interior seams, and end walls, as well as ensuring your home halves flow together perfectly.
After this final step, your double-wide mobile home is ready to go, for the most part, and you should be able to start the move-in process.
Note: if you are buying an existing manufactured home, then make sure your installer is licensed, and that you have an installation warranty. It also does not hurt to have a third-party expert inspector come out and make sure everything is up to code (HUD Code for manufactured homes).
Upgrades & Custom Features
Lastly, if you are purchasing a brand new manufactured home, you should inquire about any possible upgrades and custom features. You may be surprised at all the bells and whistles available. Plus, being able to put some personal touches on your new double-wide homes is always a rewarding experience.
Upgrades that many people consider here include custom windows, more insulation, LED lighting, flooring alternatives, different siding, energy-efficient appliances, and more. So, make sure you ask about your options.
Alternatively, if you are purchasing a used home from double-wide mobile home dealers in Michigan, there still may be a variety of upgrades available to you once the installation is complete — but you will not know until you ask. Find out where to buy used manufactured homes here.
Take Away
Ultimately, double-wides are excellent investments and offer you quality living at affordable prices. By selecting double-wide homes, you have the opportunity to make this constructed residence feel custom made from top to bottom.
So, if you are mulling over your mobile home options in Michigan, but are not quite sure what will work best for you and your family, then contact local manufactured home dealers in Michigan. With a better understanding of the particulars, there is absolutely no reason you cannot afford, and enjoy, double-wide homes, especially here in Michigan.
One final note, while doing your research and planning, do not forget to check out the manufactured communities in your area.
