How Much Does It Cost to Move a Manufactured Home?

Manufactured homes are designed to be moved, unlike site-built homes. However, the process can be lengthy and typically costs several thousand dollars. We’re sharing some of the factors to consider when deciding whether to move your existing home or purchase a new one.

The Cost to Move a Manufactured Home

How much it will cost to move a manufactured home will depend on several factors, including the size and type of the home and how far it needs to travel. There are also the necessary permits and inspection costs, which will vary depending on your location.

Homeowners will also need to factor in the potential need for a new foundation for their home. If the new location does not have a foundation in place, it will likely take several thousand dollars to have the property prepared. The new location will also need utilities ready to be hooked up to the home, and there are additional costs to have them prepared.

If you’re only moving your manufactured home a short distance, such as shifting its location on the property, it may only cost about $1,000. However, if you’re planning to move your manufactured home a long distance to a completely new location, it could cost $10,000 or more.

How Long Does it Take to Move a Manufactured Home?

While the actual process of transporting a manufactured home from one location to another can take only a short amount of time, the preparation and aftermath of the move can take considerably longer. You’ll need to move just about everything out of the home, unhook it from utilities, and pay any outstanding taxes on it.

You will also need to contact the local authorities and present them with the necessary documentation to obtain a permit to move the home. This is in addition to the permits you’ll need for the new location of the home. If you’re moving a manufactured home across multiple states, you may need to obtain a permit for each state your home passes through. Some states even require the home to be inspected before it is even moved there.

Once the manufactured home is moved to the new location, it will need to go through many of the same processes as when it was first delivered and installed.

How Much Does it Cost to Move a Double Wide?

The cost to move a double wide is typically a few thousand dollars more than the cost of a single wide home. The double wide is larger, heavier, and needs to be divided into two halves and joined back together, which requires significantly more labor.

Can You Move a Modular Home?

Modular homes can also be moved, though they will need to be broken back down into their modules beforehand, which can significantly add to the expense. You’ll need to pay for more than one truck (or trip) to move the different modules of the home.

The Cost to Move a Modular Home

Due to the additional work and equipment required, the cost to move a modular home is likely to be substantially more than a single wide home. Modular homes require a crane to lift them off a foundation, and carriers need to be rented for the move. It is not done very often, though, as the costs can easily run well over $10,000.

Working with Manufactured Home Moving Companies

One of the most important steps in moving a manufactured home is choosing a company to do the job. 

You may need to do some preparation work to move your home before hiring a company, as some companies won’t take the job until you have obtained certain permits. Most companies, however, should obtain the moving permits themselves. Liability insurance is also required, though this may be covered under an existing homeowners policy.

Outside additions to the manufactured home, such as porches and air conditioners, will cost extra to move.

Is Moving a Manufactured Home Worth the Cost?

Not only is moving a manufactured home expensive, but it can also be stressful and time-consuming. It requires dozens of hours of work to obtain the necessary permits, insurance, inspections, and other aspects required by law. Manufactured home delivery and set-up costs are highly variable, so you will need to adjust your budget accordingly.

You will also be put out of your home and regular routine, likely for several months, as you wait for the home to be moved, installed, hooked up, inspected, and prepared for living once again.

The Cost of Buying a Manufactured Home

If you have been happy with your manufactured home and wish to continue living in a similar environment, buying a new home may be the best choice. 

Some people feel an impulse to move their existing home since they are afraid of taking a loss from selling it, but studies show that manufactured homes actually appreciate in value, just as site-built homes do. If your manufactured home is well-maintained, you can sell it for a great price and put that money towards the purchase of a new home.

Buying a new manufactured home also gives you the opportunity to select new styles based on your needs. If your family size has changed, you can buy a new home that better suits your living situation. New homes from Clayton Homes of Grand Rapids have the latest in modern designs and efficient appliances. When you talk to our helpful staff, they can search our extensive inventory to find the perfect home for your budget and taste.

Buying a Home with Clayton Homes of Grand Rapids

If you choose to buy a new manufactured home instead of moving your own, Clayton Homes of Grand Rapids has an extensive inventory of beautiful and affordable homes. Talk to our staff to get a quote or receive a tour.