This concise, counselor-focused guide walks housing professionals through the financing journey for factory-built homes. Designed as a quick-reference resource, it helps advisors explain financing options, guide consumers toward appropriate loan products, and highlight the long-term affordability benefits of modern factory-built housing.
The guide covers key financing fundamentals, including the differences between mortgage and chattel loans, while reinforcing best practices such as lender comparison, budgeting for long-term maintenance, and leveraging energy-efficient home features to reduce monthly costs. It also emphasizes the role of HUD-certified counseling and consumer education in supporting successful, sustainable homeownership.
What You’ll Learn
- The two primary financing paths for factory-built homes: mortgage loans vs. chattel loans
- How financing for factory-built homes compares to traditional site-built housing
- Common lender types that offer FBH financing, including FHA, USDA, VA, and conventional options
- Why construction standards matter for long-term durability and disaster resilience
- Best practices for advising buyers before purchase, during loan selection, and after move-in
- How energy-efficient factory-built homes can reduce monthly utility costs by up to 30%
Who This is For
- HUD-certified housing counselors
- Nonprofit housing organizations
- Community development practitioners
- Lenders and housing advisors working with first-time or moderate-income homebuyers
- Anyone supporting buyers considering factory-built housing options