FAQ Series: How Long is the Process?

Manufactured homes have gained popularity as practical and affordable housing solutions in recent years. 

They offer homeowners a cost-effective alternative to traditional site-built homes.

However, the process of constructing and setting up a manufactured home involves several stages and can vary in duration. 

Explore the five phases of the building process, setting up a manufactured home, and a general timeframe for each.

Phase 1 – Pre-Construction Planning (1-4 weeks)

The first phase involves all the pre-construction planning.

During this phase, you should select an appropriate location for your home, obtain permits, prepare the site for the foundation, and map where utilities are to be installed.

The duration of this phase depends greatly on the local regulations, permit approval times, and site-specific requirements/clearing and preparations.

This can range anywhere from one to four weeks, taking into account many factors.

Factors such as environmental assessments, zoning restrictions, and obtaining necessary approvals. 

Don’t be discouraged if you hit a snag during this phase, like everything else, it’s common to run into some delays or unforeseen circumstances.

Phase 2 – Home Customization and Manufacturing (6-20 weeks)

It’s important to note, there can be some overlap between phases one and two.

Keep in mind, that land preparation can be tackled during the waiting period while the home is being manufactured. 

Phase two is where the fun stuff begins. 

The homeowner collaborates with Baird Homes to select a manufacturer, choose a floor plan, and customize the layout to your liking!

Check out one of our other FAQ Blogs that talk about what the customization process looks like, here!

In summary, the complexity of design, manufacturer back order, material demand, and many other factors contribute to the exact duration of the second phase.

Phase 3 – Transportation and Delivery (1-2 weeks)

After the manufacturing phase is complete, the next step is transporting your home to your site. 

These homes are constructed in a climate-controlled factory, and delivered once the home has been approved by all parties (manufacturer, retailer, homeowner).  

Weather and distance can impact the timing of transportation and delivery.

But with careful planning and patience, delivery can be made with minimal stress for everyone!

Phases 3 and 4 are often interchangeable, whichever comes first.

Many times a home is finished and delivered to the home site before the foundation is fully completed, therefore it will remain on site until the foundation is fully completed.

Phase 4 – Foundation Completion (1-4 weeks)

Once your home has arrived on site, the next step is to place your home properly on site.

This phase involves preparing the foundation and securing the home once it’s maneuvered in place.

Steel tie-downs and other perfectly engineered methods are used to secure the home to the foundation.

The type of foundation, local building codes, and the need for any unforeseen site grading contribute to the timeframe of this phase.

You can learn more about different types of foundations and why they’re used here.

Phase 5 – Home Installation and Finishing (2-4 weeks)

Finally! You made it to the end, the light at the end of the tunnel.

Now that your home has been secured to the foundation, it’s time for the final installation. 

The final installation consists of constructing interior finishes, connecting utilities, and completing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) work. 

Time elapsed for this phase also varies and depends on the size and complexity of the home.

Overall, you can move into your dream home much quicker with a manufactured home rather than site-built. 

The most important takeaway is all timelines are estimations, and MANY outside circumstances could cause a phase to take longer than expected.

By understanding each phase and potential kickbacks, you can work with your Home Consultant to help combat any unforeseen hiccups along the way. 

Have a FAQ or ready to talk to a Home Consultant about starting your journey?

Get in contact with us or send us a DM on Facebook, we’d love to hear from you!