If you’re looking to downsize, small modular homes may be the best option for you. However, like purchasing any other type of modular house, it’s important to remember a few factors about these homes and the buying process.
Factors for All Types of Homes
Financing
While they don’t cost as much as a mansion, small modular home prices still require financing and budgeting just as much as any larger home. Fortunately, getting a loan to buy a small house and land is a fairly similar process to purchasing a standard-sized home on a lot.
You can buy a small modular home with a conventional loan if you plan to build it on a permanent foundation. However, if you want to buy a small manufactured home that you could potentially move with you later on, you may need to look into personal loans or other financing options.
Like other types of modular houses, small modular homes may be eligible for federal housing assistance or VA loans. Since most small modular houses are designed to meet federal and state standards
Legal Needs
If you’re trying to buy a modular small home in Michigan, you’re in luck. Michigan is a relatively easy state to own a small home because many of the zoning requirements are similar to those for a standard house. Some of the standards include:
- Waterproofing
- Solid foundations
- Proper insulation
- Wiring for electricity
- Sewage connections or a septic field
- Water lines
However, Michigan’s state government typically leaves the rest of the standards to the discretion of its counties and municipalities. Many of them allow smaller houses on property within their limits, and the same types of property taxes typically apply. Because of this, it’s helpful to get up to speed on your local zoning regulations before you schedule placement and construction for your small home.
Lifestyle Factors
When you buy a small house of any kind, you need to ensure it has a bathroom and at least one bedroom or another place to sleep. Those are non-starters.
Fortunately, many small modular houses in Michigan include these factors in their basic floor plans. Whether you want to buy a pre-built modular small home or have an architect or designer create a custom house, you should always make sure your home has these basic accommodations.
However, you can also take a few extra steps to make sure your small house has all the accommodations and amenities of a full-sized home. Some of the other basics may include laundry hookups, ample storage space, and modular furniture.
What to Know When You Buy a Small Modular House
Sites, Sizes, and Zoning Requirements
Small modular homes are subject to zoning permits, just like any other type of house. They also require building permits and a sturdy plot of land with a foundation that can support them as a basic necessity.
Similarly, unlike manufactured homes, modular homes of all sizes are required to have permanent foundations to qualify for standard home loans and enjoy the same amenities. This is largely for safety purposes so your new home can withstand severe weather conditions.
Working with Small Modular Home Plans
When you plan to buy a small modular home, you’ll have to consider the layout and ergonomics of your new living arrangements. Space is at a premium in small homes, especially since they don’t offer the same amount of open areas as a regular-sized home.
You may find that in certain situations, it can be valuable to make the most of your home’s vertical space. For example, loft beds enable you to use the space underneath for additional storage or living areas so you can maximize the space you have.
This is partially why so many people who own small modular homes rely on creative furniture solutions to get the space they need without the home feeling too cluttered or claustrophobic. Some may also not use laundry hookups to avoid having a washer and dryer take several square feet of space, or use stacked washers and dryers.
Storage Factors
Just like usable space, storage space is worth its weight in gold in any type of small home. You may need to find vertical solutions for space or invest in multipurpose furniture, such as sofas and bed sets with storage space.
Furniture with storage space included in its design can be a game-changer in this situation. It allows you to get creative with the space you have and not obstruct any part of your home’s flow and layout.
However, if you need to take an extra step to create more space, adding a secondary shed to your home can be helpful.
Types of Small Modular Homes
There are all types of small modular homes available to the savvy homebuyer looking to downsize. Some of the most popular types of small homes include:
- Cabins: Whether they’re made with logs or corrugated exteriors, cabins are a great way to add a secondary or primary space to your property that emphasizes nature.
- Single-wides: These homes are similar in layout to manufactured homes, but are anchored in one place. Most are below 980 square feet by design.
- Chalets: These vacation-style homes have multiple configuration options and are ideal for retirees who are looking to downsize.
- And more: Almost any type of home can have a modular design!
Tour Our Small Modular Homes in Michigan Today
If you’re ready to live the minimalist life and downsize to a small modular home, Clayton Homes can help you find the perfect model for you. Schedule a tour of our homes today to see our home models for yourself.
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