Factory-built housing is an important — and often misunderstood — pathway to affordable, sustainable homeownership. This comprehensive guide equips housing counselors, educators, and program managers with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently introduce factory-built housing options to clients and integrate them into counseling, education, and program operations.
Designed as both a learning resource and a practical reference, the guide clarifies terminology, outlines financing pathways, and provides step-by-step guidance for incorporating factory-built housing into compliant HUD-aligned counseling practices.
What You’ll Learn
- Clear definitions of factory-built housing types, including manufactured, modular, panelized, and pre-cut homes
- Key benefits of factory-built homes, including cost efficiency, energy performance, construction quality, and speed
- An overview of financing options, including mortgage and home-only (chattel) loans
- Best practices for integrating factory-built housing into homeownership education and one-on-one counseling
- Guidance for program managers on staff training, intake processes, marketing integration, and regulatory awareness
- Quality evaluation tips for both new and existing factory-built homes
- A glossary of common terms and a curated list of trusted national resources
Who This is For
- HUD-approved housing counseling agencies
- Homeownership educators and coaches
- Program managers and nonprofit housing leaders
- Organizations seeking to expand affordable housing options for first-time and low- to moderate-income buyers