It’s always a good idea to confirm the home’s Manufacturer, Model Name, and Date of Manufacture before you purchase. Many banks and insurance companies require all of the purchase paperwork to exactly match the state records concerning the home. You can typically verify this information by locating the manufacturer’s data plate which is a sheet of paper glued to the inside of a closet or cabinet door. Also be aware that the Year of Manufacture may differ from the Model Year of the home.
1) The size of the home should be verified with a tape measure because many documents containing the dimensions of the home include roof overhangs and a 4′ trailer hitch. Your actual square footage may be smaller than you think.
2) All homes built on or after June 15, 1976 are required to meet federal HUD construction guidelines. These homes are required to have a small red metal tag affixed to the exterior of each home section. Technically, if a label is missing or if the home has been modified without the proper permits and inspections the home cannot be offered for sale.
3) Many communities require a resale inspection before they will approve the home for sale.
4) Flood Insurance will be required if the home is located in a Flood Hazard Area.
5) Homes tend to hold their value better when they are located in communities of similar homes. Homes which are much newer, nicer, or larger than neighboring homes may lose value due to the neighborhood. Homes which are much smaller, older, or run down may be deemed obsolete and have a tough time selling.
6) Good drainage away from the home will prevent water and moisture damage to the underside of the home. Standing water underneath the home can cause serious structural and health problems if not corrected.
7) Tie downs are metal straps or chains which “anchor” the home to the ground to prevent catastrophic damage in the event of high winds. Axles will be required if you (or subsequent buyers) need to move the home at some point in time. New tires will most likely need to be rented or purchased at that time as well.
8) Look for holes underneath the skirting or gaps in the skirting which would allow access to animals. Animals like to chew away the underside insulation which causes moisture damage and possible infestation.
9) Every home should be re-leveled periodically by a professional installer. The home’s structural supports will sag and sink into the ground over time which will cause structural problems with the home including cracked ceilings, binding doors, and gapping between ceiling and wall panels. Look for these signs to see if the home needs to be re-leveled.
10) Water stains on the ceiling are a good indicator of a past or present water leak in the roof. Water leaks in the roof can damage roof insulation, rafters, ceiling panels, wall panels, wall insulation, floors, and floor coverings. Immediate repair of any roof leaks is suggested to prevent further damage and health problems due to mold infestation.
11) Cracks in the ceiling can be signs that the home needs to be re-leveled.
12) Any prolonged water leaks around the bathtub or toilets will cause the sub-floor beneath the linoleum to rot away. Prior to purchasing a home be sure to stomp your foot firmly on the floor next to the toilets and next to the tub to check for a good solid sub-floor.
13) Check below the kitchen sink, bathroom sinks, and in the laundry area to make sure that the pipes and hoses are not leaking. Better to spend $10 on a new trap than $1,000 on a new floor.
14) Make sure that you know the appliances are working and that they are specifically included in the sale. Each appliance should be individually listed in the bill of sale as should any window or central air conditioners.
15) Check all of the windows from both the inside and outside of the home. Windows should be free from cracks and should seal properly. Windows that don’t close properly may indicate a home that needs to be re-leveled. Tight seals help lower both heating and cooling costs as well as preventing water damage due to rain.
16) Proper maintenance can prolong the life of these major appliances and save you money in the long run. Improperly maintained furnaces also pose a health risk. Ask to see receipts for recent repairs and ask if the work is still under warranty.
17) Make sure that any additional structures that are on site are specifically included in the bill of sale. Sheds, carports, garages, and decks should be listed individually on the purchase agreement so that there is no confusion as to what you’re paying for