Quickscrews
Quickscrews Cabinet Install Screws
Built for strength and precision, Quickscrews Cabinet Install Screws are the go-to choice for professional cabinet installers. Designed specifically for cabi...
$169
View ProductRise | We've Done the Research
As more and more consumers begin to search for ecological and sustainable home features, prefab home architects and contractors are designing several home models that incorporate everything from solar panels to wind turbines to rainwater catchment systems.
In addition, prefab homes are built in a factory setting, which means no on-site material waste. In the factory, whatever is leftover from an individual home's construction can be reused on another manufactured home.
Drawback #2: You Have to Buy the Land
One of the nice things about buying an existing home is that you're purchasing the land it sits on as well, in addition to the surrounding yard. All of this is incorporated into the negotiated price for purchase. Many people might spend long periods of time searching for the most affordable prefab home model only to find later that the cost of land in the area where they wanted to put their home will add another $50,000 or more to the final purchase price.
It's essential to thoroughly research the land price for the location in which you plan to put your prefab home. And it is imperative to make sure that there are no restrictions on putting up a prefab or modular home in that particular zoning district.
Drawback #3: Utility Hook Up and Other Hidden Costs
When searching the web for the most affordable prefab homes, it can be encouraging to find a quality, 1,500 square foot home offered with a base price of between $60,000 - $120,000. However, most companies that offer these types of houses don't include several other costs that will significantly increase the final price tag of your home. We've already mentioned the cost of the land itself. But, you'll have to factor in the additional cost of hooking your home up to utilities, including electricity, sewer, municipal water, etc.
Recommended by Rise
Building Materials
Shop high-performance building materials that are vetted for benefits to your health, your pocketbook, and the planet.
If you don't want to go through the hassle of doing all of this by yourself, it's a good idea to find a prefab home company that includes these hookups into the price of your home. Be sure to research what exactly is included in the price offered by the modular home company. Several companies offer "bare" prefab homes, which you will have to finish yourself. In contrast, other companies offer move-in-ready homes.
Rise Writer
Expert. Practical. Sustainable.
Article by
Tobias Roberts
Tobias runs an agroecology farm and a natural building collective in the mountains of El Salvador. He specializes in earthen construction methods and uses permaculture design methods to integrate structures into the sustainability of the landscape.
Expertly Curated
We find and feature the best products for a healthier, more sustainable home.
Trusted by Thousands
Helping 10,000+ families build better homes.
A More Sustainable Tomorrow
People. Planet. Better living.
