A manufactured home is a great alternative to traditional construction. Built in a factory, under strict controls and with stringent standards, today’s manufactured homes are different than their predecessors. Manufactured homes are built to last and customized to fit its owner’s style and preferences. Once you’ve decided to buy a manufactured home, you have a big decision ahead of you—where to build it. This decision is largely subjective, but should be made after careful consideration of several factors. When it comes down to it, there are three basic property types on which to build a manufactured home.

• A modular home community is a popular place to build a manufactured home. Aside from the benefit of living in a community, this kind of neighborhood is also a convenient place to build. It’s typically easy to get financing in a place where there are many other manufactured homes, and you won’t have to do as much research to determine if the lot is suitable for building, because that’s the purpose of lots in this type of setting. There’s usually a true feeling of community in these neighborhoods, too, with amenities and recreational facilities, often with planned activities for all ages. On the other hand, some people may prefer freedom rather than togetherness, and may not want to pay the maintenance fees—akin to condo or HOA fees—charged for the security and landscaping provided by these communities.
• A mixed construction neighborhood can be appealing, because of the variety of homes. However, before falling in love with a neighborhood, take a few moments to research whether it’s permissible to build your manufactured or modular home there.  While discriminating against manufactured homes is typically not allowed (as long as they meet site-built construction standards), it may be a little more difficult to secure financing. Because mortgage lenders often  prefer to have a similarity between housing styles in a neighborhood, they may be reluctant to finance vacant lots if they are going to be used for a different kind of home.
• As more and more rural lots are being zoned for housing, you may be very drawn to the idea of building on your own land. If you will be happy with an isolated lifestyle, and your commute will not be worrisome, country life may be perfect for you! While choosing a piece of property, it is important to examine it closely before you buy. Never buy land “sight unseen,” because you’ll need to check out the physical aspects of your lot, as well as digging into legalities associated with building there.
  • Walk the land, to determine its suitability for building. Make sure the land is level, and if it’s a rural lot surrounded by open land, you might want to have it surveyed, and the corners flagged, before you make an offer. A contractor can be very useful when you’re trying to assess the land, particularly in determining the cost of construction.
  • Determine the availability of electricity and utilities. Look into utilities like gas, phone, and cable, and determine how close these services are to the property. Even when electrical service is already established in the area, it may be expensive to bring it to your lot, and you’ll want to know that before you make your decision.
  • Make sure there is no restrictive zoning. Quite often, rural land is designated as a flood zone, so be sure to determine that this is not the case with your desired lot before making an offer. Also, determine whether there are restrictive covenants, zoning regulations, or easements that will limit your options. You’ll also want to find out what’s involved in getting the permits you’ll need to complete your construction.
  • Establish your financing options before you decide on a lot. If there’s a loan on the land, it may be hard to obtain a construction loan, so you might need to find out if your builder and lender can work together on a construction loan package.

Regardless of your preference for placement of your manufactured home, it’s a good idea to enlist the assistance of a housing professional like a Palm Harbor housing consultant or a real estate agent. A knowledgeable agent can be a valuable ally in helping you to determine the best place to build, because agents have expertise in determining whether the lot you want is a suitable location. Your agent will be able to look into the zoning to determine whether erecting modular homes or manufactured homes is permitted. They can also help you find out about important things like access to things like water, electricity, and sewage treatment, as well as whether or not the land is flood zoned. Working with a housing professional will be helpful because he or she can do much of the research and legwork for you to help you find the best place to build your new home.

Once you’ve decided where to build your manufactured home, your next step should be to choose the right company from which to purchase it. Palm Harbor Homes is an excellent choice, with over thirty-five years of experience building homes that exceed customer expectations and can stand the test of time. For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes contact us at PalmHarbor.com, or join us on our social networks: Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and, YouTube.

How to Customize the Interior of Your Move-in-Ready home

Move-in-ready homes are inexpensive and convenient, built on your land in a fraction of the time it takes to build a home using traditional construction techniques. Not only that, but move-in-ready homes are built to very exacting standards, under strict quality control, in a factory, so that they will be of the highest-quality construction once assembled.  However, one of the best features of a move-in-ready home is the ability to make it your own, by customizing the interior.

How many options do you have? Palm Harbor Homes gives you plenty, so that you can make your new home uniquely yours, by paying attention to all the little details.

• Cabinetry and fixtures: Palm Harbor offers high-quality options like solid-surface countertops, tile countertops, and laminate countertops. Pick cabinetry and fixtures to complement your chosen look, and you’ll be able to pull together the perfect decorating scheme for you. Palm Harbor even has DuraBuilt cabinets, for those who prefer a custom touch.
• Flooring: Carpets are available in many different colors and varieties, from sculptured to plush. Flooring, too, comes in a variety of styles, and whether you prefer laminate, ceramic tile, or linoleum, you can have the look you want.
• Colors: Choose the colors that complement your style, from a wide spectrum that includes all the latest designer hues you could want to truly make your home your own.
• Amenities: Want sculptured drywall? It’s yours. High ceilings? Palm Harbor builds move-in-ready homes with 9- to 10-foot ceilings, for those who prefer them. Dreaming of hand-laid ceramic tile? It’s yours! You can even have your floor plan modified by Palm Harbor engineers, for an extra level of customization.

Palm Harbor’s move-in ready-homes are beautiful and economical and built to stand the test of time. Customization options enable you to make your home the perfect home for your family. For more information on building on your land, manufactured, move-in-ready homes, and modular homes, contact us at PalmHarbor.com, or join us on our social networks: Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube.

A modular home is a great housing option. Built in a factory, under strictly controlled conditions, these homes can be constructed on your property in far less time than it takes to build a home with traditional construction. Easily customizable, they can be built to your specifications, with custom finishes you’d expect from a high-quality builder. A modular home makes a wonderful starter home, and these homes come in many sizes, some with floor plans from 2,000 to over 3,000 square feet. If yours is not quite that large, don’t worry:  there are some simple steps you can take to make it appear larger.

• Trick the eye with smoke and mirrors. Ok, maybe not smoke, but mirrors certainly create the illusion of a larger space. Keep this concept in mind as you decorate your modular home— reflective surfaces like glass-top tables and mirrored cabinet doors will also create a sense of more area.
• Lighten up! Dark colors can be cozy, but they can also make a small space feel like the walls are closing in. Opt for lighter shades, and make sure your modular home also has plenty of light by placing light fixtures around your rooms, rather than relying solely on overhead illumination.
• Make the most of optical illusions. You know how pinstripe pants make your legs appear longer? A striped floor can do the same thing for a room! Another trick is to choose furniture that is within a shade or two of your wall color—they will seem to take up less space.
• Use your space wisely. Don’t try to display everything you own, because that will just end up making your rooms seem cluttered. Do you know what else will make the room seem cluttered? Clutter! Keep surfaces clear, and your modular home will seem larger.
• Think creatively to utilize all space. Optimize your vertical space and use small spaces resourcefully. Hang pots from the ceiling, or build shelves that use the wall’s full height. Hang an organizer behind the door, or create a storage area in the nook under the stairs. Be imaginative, and you’ll discover that you have more space than you think.
• Make furniture choices with your space in mind. This doesn’t just mean choosing pieces that fit, it means using pieces that create space on their own. A storage ottoman, for example, does double duty, as does a trundle bed or a coffee table with a shelf underneath. In a crowded bedroom, a loft bed can clear up valuable floor space and make room for seating, a desk, shelving, or toys. Remember, too, that you don’t always need all of your furniture—accent pieces that you need when guests are visiting may not be necessary for your everyday life.

A modular home from Palm Harbor Homes can be customized to meet your needs, whether that means innovative affordability, or a floor plan with some extra space. For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes contact us at PalmHarbor.com, or join us on our social networks: Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube.

When building on your land, consider the impact of natural forces. Paying particular attention to various issues that can cause significant damage, from tree roots to tornadoes and more, will help you determine the extent of homeowners insurance you need. You’ll also understand what precautions to take when building on your land to prevent damage to your home.

• Homeowners insurance is usually a requirement. If you’ve financed your home, you’ll be required to maintain insurance to protect the investment of the lender. Even if you buy the home outright without financing, insurance is still a good idea to protect the most significant investment of your life—the new home you’re building on your land. One high value, low cost option to consider is our partner, Standard Insurance Agency, who specializes in insuring manufactured homes, modular homes and mobile homes.
• Policies vary, depending on the needs of your property. In hurricane- or tornado-prone areas, for example, it may be difficult to procure insurance, though most policies likely cover some damage from windstorms, hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Some policies exclude coverage from earthquakes and other perils, and there’s wide variation on coverage for things like lightning and fire. Flooding, however, is not covered in a homeowner’s policy, and requires a separate flood insurance policy. Deductables can be as high as $5,000 to $10,000 on some policies. It’s always best to work with a specialty company that understands your needs. Be sure to read your homeowner’s policy carefully, so that you understand exactly what’s covered.
• Lightning is another force you should consider. According to ER-Emergency.com, lightning hits the Earth somewhere every second, kills about 100 people in the United States each year, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage. Buildings struck by lightning often catch fire, and lightning strikes can cause extensive damage to electronics, buildings, and vehicles on your property. Before building on your land, talk to the builder and power company about the best way to protect your home, perhaps using lightning rods or whole-house surge protectors.
• Trees can be beneficial, but they can also pose hazards to your home. When building on your land, consider the placement of trees carefully. You want them to provide shade to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and aesthetic beauty, but you don’t want them to become potential hazards. When planting trees, make sure that they’re not too close together or too close to homes (yours or the neighbors’). Tree roots can wreak havoc on a foundation, or even cause structural damage to the walls by pulling too much moisture from the soil. Consider tree removal if it’s likely that trees might fall on the house during a storm, and prune trees to prevent falling branches. It’s also important to ensure that construction crews do not damage existing trees while building on your land.

For over thirty years, Palm Harbor Homes has provided customers with beautiful, affordable homes, using innovative design and construction to exceed customer expectations. Palm Harbor homes are energy efficient and constructed of high-quality materials, designed to withstand the weather elements and stand the test of time. For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes, contact us at PalmHarbor.com, or join our social networks on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Palm Harbor Homes: Energy Efficient for Summer

If you’re interested in energy efficient construction, you should take a closer look at Palm Harbor Homes.  Built using green construction practices, and designed to help keep energy costs down, modular houses built by Palm Harbor Homes have earned recognition from both the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the National Association of Home Builders. The recognition, however, is not the motivation behind the high quality construction of Palm Harbor Homes; these homes are designed to last, as the company continues to strive for excellence in energy efficiency.

• Palm Harbor Homes became an EPA ENERGY STAR homebuilding partner in 1997. ENERGY STAR enacts programs and certifies products designed to help preserve the environment, while at the same time saving consumers money by conserving energy. Palm Harbor’s partnership with ENERGY STAR highlights the company’s dedication and commitment to building energy efficient homes.
• One year after Palm Harbor Homes entered the Energy Star program, the EPA awarded the company the ENERGY STAR Manufactured Homebuilder of the Year award. This special commendation is awarded because of the achievement of outstanding energy efficiency, and Palm Harbor Homes was the first builder of manufactured homes to ever receive this honor.
• The National Association of Home Builders, (NAHB), awarded Palm Harbor Homes a prestigious award in 2006. Recognizing the company’s commitment to energy efficient construction, the NAHB gave Palm Harbor Homes the Gold Energy Value Housing Award.
• The company was recognized by ENERGY STAR once again in 2005 and 2007. Though not every Palm Harbor home is ENERGY STAR certified, in 2005 the company built more than 300 ENERGY STAR qualified homes in one year, earning an Outstanding Achievement Award. In 2007, the EPA recognized Palm Harbor Homes as an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year, awarding the company this honor for continued efforts to build energy efficient homes that reduce greenhouse gases and lower utility bills for customers.
• Refusing to rest on past laurels, Palm Harbor Homes continues to work towards higher energy efficiency. Palm Harbor has developed a partnership with North Carolina A&T University, which monitors the energy efficiency in two Palm Harbor Homes. One of these is standard construction, while the other highlights many unique features designed to save energy and lower the cost of utility bills. This study is just part of the research that continues to seek new progress and innovation in order to allow the company contained growth and improvement.

One of the largest marketers of factory-built homes, Palm Harbor Homes has delivered value, quality, and customer satisfaction for more than 30 years. With a well-deserved reputation for innovation in design and construction, the company continually strives to build homes that exceed customer expectations.  For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes and modular homes contact us at or join us on our social networks: Google+, Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube.

One of the best things about modular homes is the level of control the builder has over the quality of construction.  Because the different components of the home are built in the controlled environment of a factory before being assembled on-site, there is less that can go wrong or become damaged. Roofs for modular homes are an excellent example of the benefit of factory construction, which requires adherence to strict codes and standards. Once modular homes are constructed and the owner takes possession of their home, however, the homeowner is responsible for roof maintenance just as in any other home construction.

Modular homes typically have roofs with a 3:12 roof peak so they can clear overpasses easily while being transported to the homesite. However, most modular homes are now available with higher pitched roofs available as options.  Higher peaked roofs seen by some as more attractive, but they can  also add the option of attic space, and be more efficient at repelling snow. However, with the innovation of tilt up roofs, customers have an additional option, with a roof that is hinged to allow for tilting to the desired peak.

Roofs on modular homes can be seamless or seamed, made of aluminum or asphalt shingles. Aluminum is a lightweight option that can be repaired by the homeowner using a kit; and asphalt shingles are most common, usually requiring professional assistance when it comes to repairs. These two roof types require the same basic maintenance as any other roof, which includes keeping the roof clear of leaves and debris, and periodically examining it for holes or damage. While some small holes can be repaired using silicon or rubber cement, larger holes typically require professional repair, so it’s best to keep up with maintenance to prevent problems.

Modular homes from Palm Harbor Homes are well constructed, built of high-quality materials, and designed to exceed customer expectations. That’s because for over thirty years, Palm Harbor has been dedicated to innovative design and a high level of customer satisfaction. For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes contact us at PalmHarbor.com, or join us on our social networks: Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube.

It’s no secret that Palm Harbor Homes builds beautiful, well-constructed homes that are designed to stand the test of time. Wouldn’t it be great to experience that same kind of quality when you’re vacationing? You can, because Palm Harbor also builds vacation homes to the same exacting standards! Available in a variety of styles, Palm Harbor homes are equally well suited for any getaway spot, whether you are building on a beachfront location, in the mountains, or beside a lake. These fully customizable homes make for an oasis retreat that truly reflects your personal style.

• If you’re building a beach retreat in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, or Mississippi, the Solaro or Glenn Cairn models from Palm Harbor Homes may be exactly what you seek.
  • The Solaro features three bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, as well as two living areas and a separate dining room, in almost 3,400 square feet of space! A beautiful two-story house with upper and lower master suites, this dream vacation home has a light and airy ambiance  with a 17-foot ceiling in the great room and an open floor plan. Over and under front and rear porches are perfect for enjoying beautiful weather. The whole house has an air of elegance, and the inclusion of a butler’s pantry carries that theme of opulence even further.
  • The Glenn Cairn is a bit smaller, but no less comfortable. Coming in at just under 2,000 square feet, it features three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, as well as two living areas and a dining area. Ideally suited for a narrow lot, the Glenn Cairn measures just 64 by 15 feet on the exterior, yet has a flowing floor plan and two walkout porches. As with all Palm Harbor homes, it is easily customizable, with options like hand-laid ceramic tile and Durabilt cabinetry.
  • The Grand Cabana proves great things come in small packages. If you are looking for charm and comfort in a small package, the Grand Cabana packs it all into 2 bedrooms and 1 bath in 498 square feet.  This is park model home has a roomy living area and offers an optional porch for beach or bay front views on your next vacation.
• Maybe your vacation dreams involve a mountain cabin or lake house in Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia or Georgia.  The Highland has 1,100 square feet of space, but can be expanded by another 880 square feet with the optional, expandable second-floor living space. Whether you decide to stick with one story or opt for two, though, you’ll love the built-in porches, adorable kitchen with built-in bar, and luxurious master bath.
• Looking to build a charming cottage out west? The Pacific Lodge may be Palm Harbor Homes’ best option. Available in Idaho, Montana, Northern California, Oregon, Washington, Alberta and British Columbia, Canada, this charming cottage’s amenities include a 48-inch shower stall in the bathroom, as well as fun touches like a sleeping loft that is perfect for accommodating guests. Often featured as a park model, this little house is energy efficient and well built, so that your family can enjoy it for years to come.

For over thirty years, Palm Harbor Homes has been building homes that exceed customer expectations for quality and style, and are known for their innovative design and sturdy construction. For more information about building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes, contact us at PalmHarbor.com or join us on our social networks: Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube.

If you are one of the many people currently considering building on your land in or around Oklahoma City, a manufactured home is an excellent option. Because Oklahoma City is considered a recession proof location with a very good cost of living and plenty of wide open spaces, buying a piece of land in the area is inexpensive and easy. The countryside in Oklahoma is beautiful as wells as highly affordable, and when you’re able to get land for a low price, the option of building on your land becomes even more attractive because you can use the money you saved on land to get much more home and value for your money.

Palm Harbor has been building and selling manufactured and modular homes in Oklahoma City since 1997. Because of their high touch, high satisfaction customer service, Palm Harbor Homes in Oklahoma City is popular and well-respected home builder chosen by new families, retirees, and transplants from other states looking for more room and a lower cost of living. According to the general manager of the Palm Harbor model center in Oklahoma City, homes over 2000 square feet are currently very popular with the home buyers he sees, predominantly because they can get them at about half the cost of a similar site built home. Palm Harbor  can also help you find land if you do not already have your new home site in mind.

Additionally, Palm Harbor Homes in Oklahoma City has worked hard to become the local expert in financing for manufactured homes and modular homes. Whether you are building on your land or buying a lot, Palm Harbor in Oklahoma City can help you find the right financing for your situation, making your retailer a one-stop shop, convenient and helpful. Building on your land is easy when financing your home is simple.

Across the country, for over thirty years, Palm Harbor Homes has been exceeding customer expectations with their innovative designs and energy efficient construction. Part of the appeal of Palm Harbor Homes is the consistency of a committed staff, dedicated to providing a high level of customer satisfaction. For more information on building on your land, manufactured homes, and modular homes contact us at or join us on our social networks: PalmHarbor.com, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and, YouTube.

If you own some rural property, you may discover that the best way to use it is to build on your land. Whether it’s you who is interested in living on the property, or you’d rather lease it to tenants, having a house on the land makes it much more valuable and flexible. To get more home for your money, consider choosing a modular home to build on your land.

• If you already own land, you’re ahead of the game. Most people have to purchase a lot before they can begin building their dream homes. So if you have the opportunity to build on your land, consider yourself lucky! You’ll avoid the cost of purchasing property, and you’ll be able to focus your energy and resources on planning for the perfect house.
• Before you build on your land, make sure the land is ready. A property survey is a great place to start, because it can inform you as to issues that need to be addressed before proceeding. You’ll know the zoning for your property, and you’ll be able to ascertain whether you’d be better off splitting up the parcel—perhaps even selling a portion. Be mindful of easements, which can sometimes complicate the process when build on your land.
• Modular homes are ready when you are. Once you have the go-ahead to build on your land, a modular home can be assembled in a matter of weeks—not months, as is the norm with traditional construction. In addition, modern modular homes are customizable, so that your house will not only be built quickly, but it will be exactly the house you want, without all the hassle of finding a builder with your same vision.
• Choosing the right modular homebuilder could save you a world of headaches. Choose a company with a good reputation, committed to using high-quality materials and green building practices. You’ll be able to confidently choose the house that’s right for your property, without hiring an architect, puzzling over blueprints, and paying exorbitant fees to a general contractor. Modular home construction is much less expensive than traditional construction, so you’ll get more home for your money, and more use out of your land.

When you’re ready to build on your land, Palm Harbor Homes has the perfect home for you. Well-constructed, customizable, and move-in ready much more quickly than traditionally constructed homes, Palm Harbor homes are beautiful and built to last.  For more information on building on your land or modular and manufactured homes for sale, please join us on Facebook and Twitter!