Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Selling Modular Homes

From: Llyssia@yahoo.com
Category: Alternative Building Techniques - Modular Homes | Prefab Housing
Remote Name: 68.210.139.4
Date: 04 Jan 2006
Time: 12:13 AM

Comments

Question: I am a musician who hates my orchestra job and have just spent the last two years being mentored by a builder friend and then building one house the conventional way. We had planned to build ten houses and then I could go on my own, at which point the deal fell through. He introduced me to the idea of modular prefab housing. I've researched it and the higher quality companies seem to offer a lot of value for the money if the finishing of the homes is done in a cost effective way. The main barrier I see to this being possible in my area, North Central Kentucky, is that there is a definite prejudice against just the idea of modular housing, the idea being that it's a glorified trailer. I think one honest look at the ones I've seen would change most anyone's mind, but prejudice runs deep. There's one company in my city who is marketing modular homes and has an awesome website. I intend to visit them to see if they're friendly enough to share information and encouragement. I'm also going to contact my local SCORE mentorship program for some business advice. There's a guy making an incredible living selling the same company's modular homes that I'm interested in, up in Columbus, who said he would share information with me about the process of getting into this. What do you think about diving into this with some advance preparation? Any other ideas? Thanks very much. I'm very anxious to make a change and want to make sure it's for the better! Cris.

Builders Websource Answer®: Dear Cris, we applaud your measured approach to conduct research and educate yourself before jumping into the prefab housing market. In the US, the prefab housing market is still in its infancy compared to other countries in Europe, for example. New, bold designs are emerging that are shattering the old adage that a prefab home must look boxy or like an upscale mobile home. In fact, modular homes can offer a wide range of flexible single and multiple story floor plans as well as a wide range of interior and exterior finishes. And since these products are designed on a computer and built in a factory to level of precision rarely found in stick-built framing, the fit and finish of many prefab homes is superior to what's commonly found in many tract developments. A great resource for information on prefab homes is http://www.fabprefab.com where you'll find manufacturers, photos, and other valuable information on factory-built housing.

When it comes to selling prefab homes, it doesn't matter whether your background is music or engineering. The key is having the right business skills and sales skills to earn a sustainable wage. Before going into business for yourself, we recommend that you hire on as a salesperson for a reputable modular home company. There you'll be able to learn the tricks of the trade while you hone your selling skills and learn how to overcome objections. Learning from other people's mistakes and experience is crucial.

Since modular homes must be shipped to their destination sites, designs are often modern in appearance, often with flat roofs (which we never like for any home due to susceptibility to leaking). However, pitched-roof designs are also available and should be considered in most cases. A wide range of choices await you, including wood, pole, steel, and glass designs. Also, always check with the community in which you plan to sell. Some municipalities have very specific building codes, daylight plane rules, and even architectural review boards. Find out if there are any modular homes in the areas you're planning to set up shop. At least this will give you some insight into the experience of the local building department before you take the leap of faith.

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