Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are becoming a popular housing option due to their affordability. These homes are built in a factory and transported to a site for assembly and installation.
Keep reading to learn some key facts about mobile homes and better understand this housing alternative.
If you are looking for a place to live in beautiful Bakersfield, CA, check out our mobile home park Smoke Tree Mobile Estates. Our residents enjoy the facilities designed for their comfort and convenience, and they have easy access to the McMurtrey Aquatic Center, Beale Park Amphitheater, and the Sequoia National Forest, all just an hour’s drive away.
Bakersfield, known for its year-round warm weather, is the perfect place to savor outdoor activities and community events. The city boasts many public parks, sports complexes, skate parks, disc golf courses, pickleball courts, and water parks.
Contact us today to learn more about our all-age mobile home park.
Nice clean park with a large clubhouse with games, pool and they are always doing upgrades.
Chris Sherman
TEXAS HAS THE MOST MOBILE HOMES AND THE MOST MOBILE HOME PRODUCTION PLANTS IN THE U.S.
Statista Research Department reported that, as of September 2023, the states with the most mobile homes in the U.S. are Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.
Since 1994, approximately 557,000 manufactured housing units have been shipped to Texas, establishing it as a leading state in mobile home adoption. This trend is further reinforced by the fact that Texas also houses the largest number of manufactured home production plants nationwide, with over 20 facilities operating within the state.
THE FIRST MOBILE HOME CAN BE TRACED BACK TO THE 1500S
Mobile homes have a surprisingly long history, with roots tracing back to the 1500s. And the concept of mobile living evolved over time, leading to the introduction of trailer coaches in 1926. Initially designed as temporary accommodations for camping trips, these coaches didn’t rise to popularity until after World War II.
Returning veterans in need of affordable housing that the market couldn’t supply turned to mobile homes for their cost-effectiveness and mobility. With trailer coaches, they could raise their new families cheaply and move to wherever the jobs were.
OVER 22 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE U.S. LIVE IN MOBILE HOMES
How many people live in mobile homes?
Manufactured housing is a popular and affordable choice in the U.S., providing homes for over 22 million people.
Modern mobile home communities are designed to resemble traditional neighborhoods, and newer mobile homes are often indistinguishable from conventional single-family houses.
MOBILE HOMES ARE USUALLY CHEAPER THAN TRADITIONAL STICK-BUILT HOMES
One of the main reasons people choose mobile homes is their affordability compared to traditional stick-built homes.
For instance, the average price of a new manufactured home in the U.S. is $127,250—significantly less than the $413,160 average for traditional stick-built homes.
But if you’re wondering how much the most expensive mobile home costs, a 600-square-foot mobile home with 2 bedrooms and a bathroom in Montauk, New York, is currently listed for sale at a staggering $3.2 million!
MOBILE HOMES ARE TYPICALLY SMALLER THAN TRADITIONAL HOMES
The average mobile home size in the U.S. is 1,184 square feet, limited by transportation constraints. In contrast, the average single-family house size peaked at 2,467 square feet in 2015, falling to 2,299 square feet by 2022.
MOBILE HOMES ARE BUILT TO SPECIFIC STANDARDS
Mobile homes are built to specific standards set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure their safety and durability. These standards, often called the HUD Code, cover various aspects of the home, including structural integrity and the quality of heating and cooling systems.
Mobile homes that meet these standards are called “HUD-certified” or “HUD-code homes.”
MOBILE HOMES CAN BE PLACED IN A VARIETY OF LOCATIONS
Many people choose to set up their mobile homes in a mobile home park or community, providing flexibility for those desiring a home in a specific area.
One of the premiere mobile home parks in Bakersfield, CA, is Smoke Tree Mobile Estates. We are an all-age community and offer clean, well-maintained living spaces and convenient access to shopping and Highway 99. Visit us at 4401 Hughes Ln, Bakersfield, CA 93304.
MOBILE HOMES CAN BE CUSTOMIZED
Mobile homes offer customization options to cater to individual needs and preferences. Manufacturers typically provide a variety of floor plans and features that can be tailored to your liking, allowing you to choose the size, layout, appliances, flooring, and fixtures that best suit your lifestyle.
MOBILE HOMES CAN LAST FOREVER AS LONG AS YOU CARE FOR THEM, LIKE ANY TYPE OF HOME
According to a 1990 study by the Manufactured Housing Institute, the average lifespan of a manufactured home was previously estimated at around 55.8 years.
However, with proper maintenance and care, mobile homes have the potential to last indefinitely, just like traditional site-built homes. This is supported by a 2018 Federal Housing Finance Agency report, which found that manufactured homes can retain their value over time.
MOBILE HOMES CAN BE A GOOD OPTION FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS
Mobile homes can be a good option for first-time homebuyers, particularly those on a tight budget, due to their lower cost. They also require less maintenance and upkeep than traditional homes, which can be beneficial for those new to homeownership.
FINANCING OPTIONS FOR MOBILE HOMES ARE DIFFERENT FROM TRADITIONAL HOMES
Financing for mobile homes can be different from traditional homes, and obtaining a mortgage might be more challenging, although not impossible. Alternative financing options, such as personal loans or seller financing, are commonly used for mobile home purchases.
MOBILE HOMES MAY HAVE DIFFERENT INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Insurance requirements for mobile homes can vary depending on factors like location and the specific type of mobile home. Some mobile homes may have insurance coverage similar to traditional homes, while others might have different requirements.
Check with your insurance provider to understand the potential coverage you’ll need for your mobile home.
MOBILE HOMES MAY HAVE DIFFERENT TAX IMPLICATIONS
The tax classification of mobile homes can vary. Some may be considered personal property and subject to personal property taxes, while others may be classified as real property and subject to real estate taxes.
You should understand the tax implications for your specific mobile home and consult a tax professional for guidance on your tax obligations.
MOBILE HOMES CAN BE A GOOD CHOICE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR A SECOND HOME
Due to their affordability, mobile homes can also be a good choice for those seeking a second home, such as a vacation house or a place to retire.
MOBILE HOMES DEPRECIATE OVER TIME
Like any other type of property, mobile homes depreciate over time, and their value decreases with age. The depreciation rate can vary depending on several factors, including the home’s age, condition, location, and the local demand for housing.
MOBILE HOME FACTS SUMMARY
Mobile homes are a popular and affordable housing option in the United States, with over 22 million people choosing this lifestyle.
Before purchasing a mobile home, it’s essential to research local regulations, laws, taxes, and any restrictions that may apply.
Smoke Tree Mobile Estates in Bakersfield offers affordable mobile homes for sale and boasts a variety of amenities to take care of your and your family’s needs, including:
- Sparkling Pool
- Indoor Hot Tub
- Indoor Sauna
- Fitness Studio
- Clubhouse
- Billiards Room
- Community Library
- Dog Park
- Dog Spa
- Car Wash Station
Rack ’em up and break away those weekday blues in our well-appointed billiards room! It’s the spot to sharpen your skills, challenge your neighbors, or just unwind with a friendly game!
Our park is ideally located for those seeking peace and quiet while still enjoying the conveniences of urban living. We are close to various establishments, shopping centers, and Highway 99.
Since I live here I can say right now we have new owners of the park, also came new Managers. These are nice, understanding people.The park has been being improved and under construction to beautify and necessary issues addressed. Brand new mobiles await your purchase. Pool, spa or Jacuzzi, sauna, pool tables, other features at clubhouse.
Randi Webster
We invite you to come see why Smoke Tree is a great place to call home! Call us at (661) 831-6154 or send us a message to learn more.
