Purchasing vacant land for a manufactured home is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure a smooth installation process. Whether you’re setting up a manufactured or mobile home, these five key factors will help you make informed decisions.
1. Zoning and Permits
Before buying land, it’s crucial to verify zoning regulations in the area. Not all vacant lots are zoned for manufactured or mobile homes, and local ordinances may have specific requirements regarding home size, foundation types, or additional structures like carports or sheds.
What to Do:
- Check with the local zoning office or planning department to confirm the property is zoned for manufactured homes.
- Research the permitting process for installation, as this can vary by county or city.
- Some counties may require ground set installations, or specific skirting requirements.
- Contact the local building department to find out about “impact fees”. Some counties are significantly more expensive to build than others.
2. Utilities and Infrastructure
Access to essential utilities like water, electricity, and sewage is critical when installing a manufactured home. Some vacant lots may not have these services readily available, which can add significant costs and delays.
Questions to Ask:
- Is there access to public utilities, or will you need a private well, hauled water, and/or septic system?
- How far is the nearest power connection, and what will it cost to bring electricity to the property?
- Will you be able to go underground or will you need an electric pole?
- Will the power company charge you to connect?
- Are there internet and phone services available in the area?
3. Land Preparation
Not all land is ready for a manufactured home installation. The terrain may need grading, clearing, or soil testing to ensure it can support your home’s foundation and withstand local weather conditions.
Key Considerations:
- Hire a professional to assess the soil’s stability and drainage capabilities.
- Factor in the cost of clearing trees, leveling the site, and building driveways or access roads if needed.
4. Accessibility and Location
Consider the location’s accessibility, not just for you but also for the delivery and installation of your manufactured home. Narrow roads, steep grades, or low-hanging branches can make transporting the home difficult.
Location Factors:
- Proximity to schools, work, and essential services like grocery stores and healthcare.
- Ease of access for manufactured home transporters and installers.
- Moving companies may require access roads to be a minimum of 16 feet wide.
- Moving companies may require a minimum of 25 feet turning radius otherwise they may need a crawler.
- How close is the nearest hardware store: Farther distances may increase the installation cost.
5. Long-Term Costs and Resale Value
Beyond the initial purchase and installation, think about the long-term costs and potential resale value of your property. Vacant land with proper utilities and zoning tends to have higher resale value and may appreciate over time.
Things to Plan For:
- Property taxes, maintenance, and potential HOA fees if the land is part of a community.
- Future upgrades, such as adding a carport, deck, or landscaping.
- How the location and features of the land might appeal to future buyers if you decide to sell.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect vacant land for your manufactured home takes time and due diligence, but the effort is well worth it. By considering zoning, utilities, land preparation, accessibility, and long-term costs, you can ensure a smooth installation and create a space that truly feels like home.
At DIGN Homes, we specialize in manufactured home installations and site development across Arizona. Whether you’re evaluating land or preparing for installation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can help bring your vision to life!