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Manufactured Home Ratings Guide

Over 65 Builders Rated

By Manufactured Home Network Published and distributed by Manufactured Homes Network 3660 Nicklaus Drive, Clarkston, WA 99403 Phone: (509) 243-5306 Fax: (866) 401-1084 Email: info@manufacturedhomesnetwork.com Website: http://www.manufacturedhomesnetwork.com This book may be purchased online or by calling toll-free 1-888-770-2830. Manufactured Homes Network is a consumer based company that offers rating guides for manufactured homes and manufactured homes in North America. We remain committed to our readers by offering unbiased information about the factory built housing industry. We have NO hidden agendas. We receive NO commissions or advertising kickbacks. We have not accepted any payments to promote one company over another. We can assure you that all of the information contained in this guide is based on independent research and countless interviews and is from an objective point of view. Copyright © 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008 & 2009 by Manufactured Homes Network All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from Manufactured Homes Network. Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher and author assume no responsibility for errors and omissions. The author and publisher disclaim any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this book. Cover design: Greg Ryan

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Table of Contents Chapter 1: The Evolution of Manufactured Homes 4

Can a manufactured home be placed on a basement? On-frame & off-frame manufactured homes Are manufactured homes still affordable today? Two-story manufactured homes A troubled past � where do we go from here? Pros of manufactured home construction Cons of manufactured home construction Conclusion

Chapter 2: Manufactured Home Articles 10 Company Background States Located Principle Target Customer Comments Manufacturers listed in Alphabetical Order Chapter 3: Rating Parameters 50 Sample Rating Chart (R) Ratings (C) Classification (P) Premium (AA) Above Average (E) Economy (SC) Strongest Category Price Range (RA) Residential Appeal (C) Construction (CS) Customer Satisfaction (RV) Resale Value Total Points Chapter 4: West Region Rating Chart 53

Chapter 5: Southwest Region Rating Chart 55

Chapter 6: Midwest Rating Charts 57

Chapter 7: Southeast Rating Charts 60

Chapter 8: Northeast Rating Charts 63

Bonus Offer: How to Spot A Well-Built Manufactured Home 65

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Chapter 1

The Evolution of Manufactured Homes

The American dream of owning a home still prevails and the manufactured housing industry is experiencing growth even during these difficult economic times. More and more homebuyers are becoming aware of the advantages of owning a manufactured home. With modern day technology and assembly line techniques, the industry is overcoming the misconception that manufactured homes are poorly built and don�t measure up to stick-built homes. The term "Manufactured Homes", describe HUD-code

homes or sometimes referred to as mobile homes. A manufactured home is built entirely in the factory under a federal building code administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is classified as a "Manufactured Home." These homes are constructed to meet the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act, which has been in effect since June 15, 1976. The Federal standards regulate manufactured housing design, construction, strength, durability, transportability, fire resistance, energy efficiency and quality. The HUD Code also sets performance standards for the heating, plumbing, air-conditioning, thermal and electrical systems. Construction continues year round and assembly line workers don�t need to be skilled carpenters and are paid about half of what on-site contractors are normally paid. Many of the laborers working in the factory-built housing industry have steady jobs with benefits and can afford to buy the products they make. The use of manufactured homes really kicked into high gear after World War II and made a sizable contribution to reducing the housing shortage at that time. In the 1960s, the mobile home industry made an evolutionary split. One branch evolved into recreational vehicles (RVs) to the point where the house now tows the car. The other branch evolved into manufactured homes, 95 percent of which now become permanent dwellings once they are transported from the factory to the site. Manufactured housing is also popular in many countries around the world. Today, even conventional stick-built homes are using an increasing amount of factory assembled components. Roof and floor trusses, pre-hung doors and windows, manufactured cabinets and fiberglass bath and shower units are standard prefab items. Mobile homes have had a long, reputable history of filling America�s demand for affordable housing. In the 1920.s, trailer coaches became very popular. They were mass produced and built for travelers who wanted something better and faster than a tent to sleep in when they arrived at their favorite vacation destination. After World War II ended, thousands of war veterans were returning home only to find the housing market to be expensive and out of reach for most. Affordable housing was

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desperately needed during this time and with a shortage of housing and increased demand, the trailer coach industry in 1926 seized the opportunity and started building homes large enough to house a small family. Because these homes were able to be moved from one location to another, the term "Trailer" began to stick.

In the 1960�s, when demand emerged for more living space, larger trailers with more amenities made their appearance. This type of product satisfied a segment of the market, but of course, they were still mobile, and the public wanted more. From this demand, the term, Mobile Home was born. During the 1980�s and 1990�s mobile homes started looking more and more like regular stick-built homes. Three section homes or triple-wides started appearing on the scene with steeper pitch roofs and other residential features not normally associated with standard

looking mobile homes. The industry decided to drop the term mobile home because it no longer accurately described the new styles and sizes of homes being produced. The term, �Manufactured Home� is now the politically correct term. Terms like; "trailer home," or "trailer coaches" or just plain "trailer" are no longer used today. Today�s manufactured homes come with many of the same features typically found in a stick-built home: living and dining rooms with vaulted ceilings, skylights, fireplaces, modern kitchens and premium appliances, large bedrooms with walk-in closets, bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, ceramic tile, hardwood floors and more! The options are almost limitless! All HUD-code manufactured homes have a steel undercarriage that supports each section. Once the section or sections have been transported to the customer�s site, the wheels and axles are removed and the steel undercarriage is then supported by a blocking system. Manufactured homes generally come in single units or two-section units. In certain parts of the country you can also find three and four-section units. A manufactured home can be placed on a basement. In general, manufactured homes are single-story homes that are placed on a blocking system that supports the steel I-beams under each section. Most manufactured homes have low roof pitches, (3/12) due to the need to clear underpasses during transport. A number of HUD- manufacturers are starting to utilize new technologies and in some cases just old fashion hard work to add residential appeal to manufactured and manufactured homes. In recent years hinged roofs have become very popular, allowing a high pitched roof to fold flat during transport to provide the necessary clearance, while still achieving some of the savings associated with manufactured homes.

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Can a manufactured home be placed on a basement?

If you�re planning on placing your manufactured home on a basement you will need to order your manufactured home �basement-ready� or �foundation-ready�. Basements can be complicated, talk with the manufacturer�s engineers and work closely with them. A general contractor who has had experience installing basements under manufactured homes is a must. Your sales center should have names of qualified contractors in your area. Every basement is different and will usually require an engineered drawing. When a manufactured home arrives on site it may be rolled onto the foundation/basement using special tools or lifted onto the basement using a large crane. The steel undercarriage of the manufactured home will typically rest on steel I-beams that span the entire width of the basement. I-beams supporting the steel undercarriage are normally set into the concrete walls and bolted to ensure no movement. Dealing with an experienced salesperson and knowledgeable contractor is the best advice I can give you when considering placing a manufactured home on an engineered basement.

On-frame & off-frame manufactured homes

A number of manufactured home producers like, Champion, Fleetwood, Palm Harbor and Skyline have begun to build what they refer to as a �manufactured home�. Essentially, this is a home built in a HUD-factory, on the same permanent metal chassis used in the manufacturing of a HUD-code home. However, instead of designing and building the home to HUD-codes and

regulations these HUD-factories follow local and state building codes. Some states and counties require a manufactured home to be built to normal building codes in order for the building department to issue a building permit. To deal with this growing problem certain factories are allowing the customer to up-grade from a standard HUD-code home to the residential code home. The manufactured home basically looks the same but the floor system, plumbing and roof trusses have been upgraded to meet the standard building code for that state or county. The cost of this option varies depending on what changes are made, on average the up-grade is $7,500 to $15,000. Many states require the HUD-Factory to design the home so the steel-frame can be removed before the home is placed on a permanent concrete foundation. Other states don�t require you to remove the steel-frame in order to comply with state and local building code requirements. Some are referring to these homes as modular homes. If the steel frame is removed I like to refer to these types of homes as entry-level modular homes. Because these homes are

Skyline off-frame manufactured home

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still built in a HUD-factory they have many design limitations. The manufactured housing industry is different from the modular housing industry. They are two separate products and a TRUE MODULAR HOME does not have the same constraints as a manufactured home, on-frame or off-frame. A true modular home has no limitations when it comes to design, style or options. Most true modular homes are custom built and resemble a custom stick-built home. If you�re considering a true modular home we have a number of publications about the industry. To learn more please visit: www.manufacturedhomesnetwork.com.

Are manufactured homes still affordable today? On average manufactured homes cost $35.00 to $65.00 per sq. ft. (not including property). The national average completely set-up including cost of home, homebuyer�s property and site improvements is around $65.00 to $90.00 per sq. ft. The average size manufactured home sold in the U.S. is around 1,500 sq. ft. Total cost of home on private property using $85.00 per sq. ft. comes to around $127,500.00. According to the, National Association of Realtors, the average price tag for a stick-built home - as of April, 2009 was $215,000. This is an $88,000 difference, making manufactured homes the most affordable housing option today. Now, I know some of you living in an RV fulltime may disagree but regarding a permanent dwelling a manufactured home is the least expensive option today. Many first time homebuyers are drawn to the industry because of low down payment requirements and low monthly payments. Did you know that many retirees are also considering a manufactured home? It is estimated that 1,500 baby boomers are retiring every day. Many have large homes with high property taxes and are looking to downsize and move into rural areas.

Two-story manufactured homes

While it�s rare to see two-story manufactured homes stacked on top of each other, it can be done. The steel chassis of a HUD-code home cannot be removed, by doing so you commit serious violations. This law has discouraged two-story manufactured home designs. HUD does allow the removal of the hitch and wheel assembly, which allows stacking solutions similar to two-story manufactured homes. Two-story manufactured homes are built as single- or double-width, or single-width over double-width.

Essentially there are two approaches to realizing two-story manufactured homes. Both require a crane onsite. One approach, as practiced by Schult Homes and New Era Homes, is to manufacture and deliver single-story boxes and stack the second-story unit on the first-story unit on site, not unlike manufactured housing. Traditional manufactured home chassis are made of heavy, longitudinal, steel I-beams supporting the floor system from below. Schult Homes, located in Plainville, Kansas decided to change its normal way of doing things and created a series of transverse, steel chassis beams. This reduced the floor�s overall thickness making each unit lighter and reducing the overall shipping height. Schult supplied two-story manufactured homes for the New Colony Village project located in Jessup Maryland.

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A troubled past � where do we go from here? The manufactured housing industry has seen home sales plummet in the last ten years. At its peak in 1998 the industry sold 372,000 homes but since then the number has declined significantly. As a whole, the industry has seen the amount of homes sold in the U.S. cut by two-thirds in 10 years. You have heard of the saying, �A few bad apples spoil the whole batch�. Today the industry is seeing some of the effects of scam artists, improper lending techniques and weak building codes. In 2008 the industry reported sales to be around 115,000. Early estimates for 2009 are trending lower and may be below the 100,000 mark for the first time. The slowing economy is taking its toll on the industry. Many are predicting the industry will recover sometime in 2010. It is estimated the housing industry as a whole will start to recover from this economic melt-down by spring of 2010. The good news is that things are starting to improve. Manufactured home builders that thought poorly constructed homes were the wave of the future have seen their sales decrease dramatically. Many dealers that manipulated down payments to get loans approved are out of business. The industry still has some loose cannons out there but things are improving and I believe the industry will come back with an emphasis on quality and residential appeal.

Pros of manufactured home construction

As discussed, manufactured homes have come a long way regarding quality of construction and residential appeal. Today, manufactured homes are appealing to a broader segment of homebuyers, from first time homebuyers to retirees looking to downsize. Hopefully home sales will increase as the industry looks for ways to increase its market share. Benefits to utilizing manufactured home construction are:

� Affordability - being the least expensive in the industry per sq. ft. � Better construction methods with improved building materials � Multiple floor plans from singlewides to four-sectioned home � More residential features like; covered porches and steeper roof pitches � Quicker build times compared to traditional building methods � Lower down payment requirements in certain states � Can be placed on a basement � Can be stacked making a two-story home, not available in most states � Buyers have the option to upgrade from HUD-building codes to standard building

codes

Palm Harbor Manufactured Home

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Cons of manufactured home construction Manufactured homes have a bad reputation for a variety of reasons. It has taken decades for the industry to improve its image and still struggles to convince homebuyers it�s a good investment. A quality built manufactured home placed on a concrete foundation with an attached or detached garage and adequate landscaping can be a good investment. The problem is many first time home buyers don�t take the necessary steps to accomplish this. Often a manufactured home will be placed on a temporary foundation with no adequate landscaping with average to poor residential appeal. In this case a manufactured home will not appreciate in value and the home owners will not enjoy long term benefits that normally accompany a standard stick-built home or a quality built manufactured home. Some disadvantages to utilizing manufactured home construction are:

• Poor construction methods - resulting in high maintenance • Some models still look like a mobile home • Poorly constructed foundations that produce sagging over time • Placed in low income parks or communities, no appreciation value • Higher interest rates associated with manufactured homes • Difficult to repair or replace items that break because not residential size • Higher insurance premiums depending on where home is placed in the U.S. • Difficult to ad-on to existing structure because of local and state laws

Conclusion

Manufactured home can appreciate in value overtime and bring years of enjoyment. If one researches their options and selects a well-built manufactured home and places it in a quality neighborhood or community with some residential appeal, a manufactured home can be a good investment. If one takes a shortcut and does not incorporate some of these tips or suggestions than in my opinion a manufactured home is a poor investment and will not bring you the desired outcome you desire. I am being up-front an honest about this issue. I don�t believe a manufactured home is for everybody. But, in certain circumstances it can be an excellent choice. It really depends on your needs and wants and what you hope to gain from this type of product. By following my tips and suggestions in this resource you�ll make wise and informed decisions that will have a lasting impact on your housing situation.

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Chapter 2 Manufactured Home Articles

My research team and I have compiled what we believe to be fair, balanced reviews and ratings of the manufactured housing industry. We trust you will find the following information both informative and invaluable in your quest for your dream home. Overall the industry has been open to speaking with my research team and me. As expected, a few companies declined to speak with us but most welcomed the chance to get their information out. Each review or article provides important information that is easy to understand with helpful facts and insight into each manufacturer. Our goal here is to simply share with you the knowledge that we have gained over the years. Each review is broken down into four separate parts:

� Company background and history � States manufacturer distributes or sells homes � Principle target customer � Authors comments

Company Background and History: Our goal is to give you a brief description or, �Snap Shot� of each manufacturer based on interviews and information from each company�s website. This is in no way intended to be an in-depth analysis but simply to put forth some basic facts about each manufacturer. This gives you some insight into how the manufacturer got its start and the main focus or direction the company is heading. State(s) Manufacturer Distributes or Sells Homes: Within each review we list each state the manufacturer being featured sells or distributes homes, either through a network of builders or through company owned retail centers. Principle Target Customer: This is an important piece of information. Whether you�re an upper-end, mid-range or an entry-level buyer, this report will help you focus on manufacturers that meet your expectations and comfort level. Listing the types of customers each manufacturer markets to will help you be able to concentrate on products that are within your budget. Comments: While researching the industry our research team has learned a few things about each manufacturer featured in this report. Sometimes, we will say what we like and don�t like about a particular factory. Our comments are based on opinions and only serve to add additional insight.

The following pages of this chapter feature manufactured home companies. Each company is listed in Alphabetical Order. Please remember that we have tried to include all manufacturers but if we missed a particular company we apologize. If you know of a company not featured in this guide, please email us the company information at: info@manufacturedhomesnetwork.com.

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Adrian Homes P.O. Box 266 Adrian, GA 31002 Phone: 478-668-3232 www.adrianhomesmfg.com States Sold In: GA, FL, NC, SC Company Background: Established in 1962 in the town of Adrian, Georgia, Adrian Homes began to construct manufactured homes. Since its beginning, Adrian Homes has built schools, apartment buildings, daycare centers, office buildings, and residential homes. In 1999, Adrian began offering premium HUD code homes. Over the last 30+ years, Adrian Homes has established a reputation as a community oriented company, providing a good work environment and being active in community enriching activities. Comments: Adrian Homes is going after the manufactured market with 70% of their business being manufactured and only 30% HUD-code manufactured homes. This is a wise decision in my opinion. Homebuyers can qualify for conventional financing with manufactured homes and resale value is typically better. It�s important to note that Adrian does produce (off-frame) manufactured homes which is an advantage compared to (on frame) as discussed in chapter 1. The company is small and may be easier to deal with regarding customer service and warranty issues compared to a large builder. I like the fact they are going after school projects and other commercial opportunities using manufactured construction. BonnaVilla Homes (Chief Industries) P.O. Box 127 111 Grant Street Aurora, NE 68818 Phone: 402-694-5250 www.bonnavilla.chiefind.com States Sold In: ND, SD, NE, KS, IA, MO, MN, WI, IL, IN, KY Company Background: BonnaVilla® Homes is a division of Chief Industries, Inc. They strive to offer a wide range of high quality products with a large selection of options available within those products. This is possible by having qualified people, a strong and diverse parent company, and striving for continuous improvement. All of these things encompass being "Value and Customer Driven�. Founded in 1954 as a small construction firm, the company soon became a dealer for farm buildings and grain bins. The following decade saw growth primarily in the manufacture of grain bins and steel buildings. BonnaVilla started building manufactured homes in a single factory in 1970. In 1976 BonnaVilla added manufactured homes to their line-up. The company prides itself on customizations and employs a full line drafting and design department. Since then, a number of other companies have been added to the Chief ranks�ranging from factory-built homes to ethanol fuels�all under the guiding commitments to Customer Service, Manufacturing Excellence and Financial Strength & Stability.

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The company has long been recognized as a "luxury home builder� in the manufactured and manufactured home industry. The BonnaVilla is available in Single Section and Double Section, built to HUD and IRC Codes. Comments: As a partner with Chief Industries they are committed to strength, stability and the customer experience. I like the fact that BonnaVilla removes the frame when placing a manufactured home on the foundation. I believe off-frame manufactured homes or entry-level manufactured homes are a better investment with a higher rate of appreciation compared to on-frame manufactured homes. The company advertises a home for almost every budget. They have standard features that may be considered upgrades with other builders yet they offer a variety of additional options. Some important things to point out when it comes to this builder, is their philosophy as it relates to quality control. They state on their website, �While all builders must build to the applicable code to follow the letter of the law, going beyond that to give the home owner a home that has been audited before delivery is a very important function. Low tolerances and high standards are used to make sure our home has minimum defects.� I have talked with a number of customers who have purchased a BonnaVilla home and they are pleased with the overall construction and durability of the homes. BonnaVilla is a smaller company that seems to have a handle on quality control issues. Like Burlington Homes of Maine both companies have a low service cost. This means customers don�t experience a lot of service issues because their homes are not rushed through the plant. Smaller companies as I�ve mentioned before seem to offer higher end products with fewer service issues. The company�s reputation in the industry is very good. Burlington Homes of Maine (Out of Business) 620 Maine Street, Oxford, ME 04270 Phone: 800-675-4406 www.burlingtonhomes.com/ States Sold In: ME, MA, NH, RI, NY, CT Cappaert Homes P.O Box 620567 Vicksburg, MS 39182 Phone: 601-636-5401 www.cappaerthousing.com/ States Sold In: FL, MS, LA, KY, OK, TX, AR, MO Company Background: Founded in 1987 by Mike Cappaert and a small team of employees that believed they could build affordable homes that were desperately needed for their markets. Now, 150 employees later they are still producing a low-cost HUD-code home. These homes are basic in design and the company does not allow much in the way of customization.

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Comments: Basically a low-end, single and entry level double-wide manufactured homes. Their focus is building affordable homes and if you�re an entry-level buyer with limited financing or down payment, Cappaert Homes may be just what you�re looking for. Cavalier Homes Builders LLC P.O. Box 540 Addison, AL 35540 Phone: 256-747-9800 www.cavhomesinc.com/ Sister Companies: Astro Homes, Bellcrest Homes, Brigadier Homes, Buccaneer Homes, Homestead Homes, Spirit Homes Riverchase Homes Mansion Homes and Town & Country Homes Company Background: Text taken from company�s website, �Cavalier Homes was founded in 1984 by Jerry F. Wilson with a single manufacturing facility in Addison, Alabama. The company was publicly traded first in 1986 on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol "CXV". In 1987, Cavalier acquired operating plants in the Carolinas and Georgia, owned by Brigadier Homes, Inc. A few years later, it expanded a production facility in Hamilton, Alabama. An additional facility was built in Addison. 1994 saw expansion into Fort Worth, Texas, and on December 4 of the same year, the Company began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "CAV". In 1997, the company acquired Belmont Homes, Inc and its subsidiaries in MS, AR, and GA. In 2002, the company consolidated its manufacturing operations by creating Cavalier Home Builders, LLC. In March 2004, the company moved its common stock listings to the American Stock Exchange.� Comments: The Company manufactures a wide range of HUD-code manufactured homes throughout the southern United States, with a focus on serving the low to medium priced housing market. In 1991, the Company formed Cavalier Acceptance Corporation to offer retail installment sale financing for manufactured homes sold through the Company's exclusive dealer network. In December of 1997, Cavalier acquired all of the assets of Belmont Homes, Inc., which now operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Cavalier. It�s difficult to rate Cavalier because they own so many different companies as mentioned above. For the most part Cavalier and its subsidiary companies fall into the, �Entry-Level Category.� I find their homes to be basic when it comes to construction methods. Cavalier offers many different models and styles to choose from with various levels of quality.

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Cavco 1001 N. Central Ave, Suite 800 Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phone: 602-356-6263 www.cavco.com States Sold In: AZ, NM, CA, NV, UT, CO Company Background: Cavco was established in 1995 in Phoenix Arizona. The company is one of the largest manufactured home builders in the Southwest with five manufacturing facilities located in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. The company also builds vacation type park model homes. Cavco Industries, is a subsidiary of Dallas, Texas-based Centex Corporation (NYSE: "CTX"), one of the nation's largest home builders and mortgage originators. They pride themselves on being one of the largest producers of Manufactured Housing in the U.S. markets. Comments: Cavco�s homes cost around $30.00 to $45.00 per sq. ft. on average. I found their closest competitors to be Palm Harbor, Schult, and Fleetwood. The Durango plant produces a quality home and I like some of their interior and exterior designs. I do like their developer series, which are manufactured homes, (on-frame or off-frame) and feel this would be a good choice if you were considering a residential looking home. Cavco is a mid-size company, which is to their advantage in my opinion. Small to mid-size companies seem to do a better job in customer service from my experience. Cavco�s website does provide some information and they offer a basic tour on their website. I like the fact that you can customize your Cavco home to meet your needs with hundreds of options. Champion Enterprises Inc. 2701 Cambridge Ct. #300 Auburn Hills, MI 48236 Phone: 248-340-9090 www.championhomes.net States Sold In: Most U.S. states Company Background: Champion Enterprises was established in 1953 and today is headed by William C. Griffiths, President and Chief Executive Officer. Champion Enterprises is the parent company of a number of homebuilders. Its subsidiaries include: Advantage Homes, Gateway Homes, Castle Homes of Pennsylvania, Champion Homes (pictured), Champion Home Builders, Dutch Housing, Homes of Merit, Redman Homes, Moduline International, Inc., Genesis Homes, Fortune Homes, Commander Housing, Silvercrest Homes, Titan homes, New Era, and Summit Crest Homes. They are a stable company that has sold over 1.6 million homes since their inception. This speaks for the quality of homes and the satisfaction for customers. Collectively their family

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of homebuilders has the experience and financial strength to provide potential homebuyers with an exceptional home building/ buying experience. Comments: It�s hard to rate a company as large as Champion because they are so diverse. On average I would have to place them in the, �Above-Average Category�. The company is appealing to entry-level and mid-range buyers with innovative designs and options not normally associated with HUD-code manufactured homes. The company is also going after the manufactured market with over 20% of production being manufactured. Champion has a good reputation in the industry and offers a wide variety of floor plans to choose from. Don�t miss champion�s most recent kitchen and bathroom upgrades! The company�s website is consumer friendly but lacks specific information like standard specifications and construction information. Chariot Eagle West AZ location: 8100 Buckeye Rd Phoenix, AZ 80543 Phone: 623-936-7545 www.charioteaglewest.com States Sold In: FL, AZ, CO, OR, CA Company Background: Chariot started in 1984 with just five employees in a leased, 10,000 square foot facility. The company has expanded on four different occasions. Voted in 1989 and 1990 as one of the USA's fastest growing companies, it has achieved national recognition against much larger companies. Even though the company is less than 30 years old, it has established a reputation for producing innovative, beautiful, well built RV park models, cabins, and manufactured and export homes. The company's success comes primarily from its ability to adjust to different demands, such as multi-code differences among the various states and countries and design adaptations. This applies to not only the holiday park homes but also manufactured homes, cedar log cabins, manufactured homes, disaster units and export housing. Plant locations in Florida and Arizona enable Chariot Eagle to build its products in two of the lowest cost regions in the USA. These savings allow shipment of park homes throughout North America as well as worldwide. Comments: Chariot Eagle�s market is park models and vacation homes. Their full size HUD-code manufactured homes have less curb appeal than competitors such as Cavco and Silvercrest. In summary, Chariot Eagle is a small, growing company that is expanding its business through hard work and long term relationships with its suppliers and customers throughout the NW. We found their closest competitors to be Cavco, Silvercrest, Hallmark SW, and Schult and stick-built vacation homes. They enjoy a great reputation and are worth taking a look at.

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Clayton Homes P.O Box 9780 5000 Clayton Rd. Maryville, TN 37804 Phone: 865-380-3000 www.clayton.net States Sold In: All states except HI, Company Background: Clayton has been building homes since 1934. Distributing in 49 states, Clayton Homes is committed to �building the best value for our customer.� Clayton Homes was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, Inc in 2003. It is a vertically integrated manufactured housing company. They are only a domestic manufacturer offering both Manufactured and Manufactured housing. Clayton Homes presents itself to the public as having a strong advantage because they are able to build, sell and finance their homes and commercial buildings. Comments: Clayton has a large network of builders and dealers throughout the United States. Clayton has really focused on building quality communities, which has been a big success for them. I have always said if you want to be successful in the manufactured housing industry, provide quality communities where people can settle down. With property becoming more difficult to find, many are turning to communities for the answer. Clayton does provide in-house financing to homebuyers. Clayton is a large company with a good reputation in the industry. Most of Clayton�s homes fall into the, �Entry-Level Category.� Like most large companies Clayton is appealing to the masses and builds a home to meet this demand. Clayton does offer some very nice upper-lines that have residential features; these lines would fall into the above-average category. Clayton provides a factory tour on their website, which is worth watching. This is a basic tour but does show various stages of the building process. I like Clayton�s website and they do a good job overall getting the information out. Clayton is going after entry-level to mid-range buyers with quality and affordability being their main focus. Commander Homes (A subsidiary of Champion Enterprises) 1100 W. Lake St. PO Box 95 Topeka, IN 4651 Phone: 260-593-2970 www.commanderhousing.com States Sold In: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MN, MI, MO, NE, OH, OK, SC, WV, WI, WY

Company Background: Nearly identical to its sister brand, Redman, Champion launched Commander Homes in 1997 with a different look but comparable price-range. From their website: �Commander Housing is located in Topeka, Indiana. This Amish community is home to some of the finest craftsmen in the world. Their dedication and work ethic helps to provide a solid foundation for factory built homes. The first homes were built in 1965, allowing this complex to grow with the market demands. We now have four manufacturing

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facilities with over 400,000 square feet of climate controlled construction space. We employ over 400 workers building HUD and Manufactured Homes.� Comments: Commander Homes are well-built, HUD-code manufactured homes at affordable prices. They are a sort of �knock-off� of Redman Homes; built to penetrate the same market with a different look & name. Their website shows some very detailed pictures of the entire construction process. (For more information please see Redman Homes, article). Commodore Homes 1902 Century Drive Goshen, Indiana 46527 Phone: 219-534-3067 www.commodorehomes.com States Sold In: CT, DE, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, ME, MI, MD, MA, MO, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VT, VA, WV, WI Company Background: Commodore Homes of Indiana has been in business since 1952 and is a privately owned business. Commodore has become well known for innovative designs, superior construction, and outstanding service and support. Commodore Homes of Indiana also specializes in custom floor plans. Both state-code compliant (Manufactured) homes and federal-code compliant (HUD) homes are built at Commodore Homes of Indiana. Homes are carefully built to exacting standards throughout each phase of construction. A quality control team and independent inspectors assure each home is built in compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal codes and are backed with an industry-leading warranty. Comments: The Company does offer some attractive floor plans and I like the residential appeal of their homes. The company builds both HUD-code manufactured and manufactured homes. Their manufactured home division offers many floor plans and styles to choose from. The company does promote their manufactured home division very well and for an extra $12,000 or so, you could purchase a manufactured home compared to a HUD�code manufactured home. Suggestion: If you�re looking at different manufacturer�s websites and there is no information on how they are built, chances are they don�t have much to talk about in this area. Company�s that build quality homes will usually have a page dedicated to construction features found on their website. Commodore�s website has a lot of information about their homes.

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Deer Valley Homebuilders Inc. P. O. Box 310 Guin, Alabama, 35563 Phone: 205-468-8400 www.deervalleycorp.com/ States Sold In: AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MS, MO, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, WV Company Background: Deer Valley was founded in 2004. They operate with a �family� approach. They pride themselves in offering a home with the best quality and durability. Deer Valley Homebuilders takes great pride in building custom designed manufactured homes and manufactured homes. The management of Deer Valley Homebuilders claims that they �operate to the highest standard of business and moral ethics and approach business with an open mind, through communication, positive attitude, and teamwork.� They have worked to surround themselves with the highest quality workforce and distribution network to propel the company forward into one of the most trusted and respected companies in the factory-built housing industry. Comments: Deer Valley Homebuilders Inc. has an extensive background within the industry. They seem committed to providing an upper-end home for homebuyers considering a HUD-code manufactured home. After reviewing Deer Valley standard features, I would have to place them in the, �Above-Average Category�. I like the fact that Deer Valley is a smaller company this gives them the ability to focus on the little things during the construction phase of each home. A quality company with high construction standards, I would definitely take a look at this company if you live in their markets. Their on-frame manufactured homes should attract some attention as well. I have found their closest competitors to be Cavalier, Southern Energy, Liberty, Franklin, and Fleetwood. Destiny Industries 250 R W Bryant Road P.O. Box 2947 Moultrie, GA 31788 Phone: 1-866-782-6600 www.destinyhomebuilders.com/ States Sold In: AL, GA, FL, LA, MS, NC, SC

Company Background: Moultrie became the home to brothers Bill and Donnie Edwards in the early 70's where they and two friends started "Destiny" in 1978. By 1995 it had become the largest employer in Moultrie, and in that same year the company was sold to a New York Stock Exchange Fortune 1000 company. Despite high productivity the Moultrie facilities were closed in 2002 as part of a restructuring of that national corporation.

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Moultrie has old-fashioned hometown pride in its industrial base and the workforce that supports it. Destiny was one of the homegrown industries that the town didn't want to see die, so they rallied around the rebirth of Destiny Industries, and in May of 2003 Bill and Donnie Edwards, along with several long term business associates purchased the remaining properties that had comprised of Destiny as well as the new "state of the art" 200,000 square foot, climate controlled facility that had been built in 1997. In June of 2003, as the management team began to build the foundation, seventy-five men and women, each of whom were skilled artisans and craftspeople in their elected fields, began their "Destiny" by waking up a plant that had been closed for nearly a year. The first home came off-line in July of 2004. Comments: Destiny builds very nice, basic homes ready for individual customization in the entry level to mid-range markets. As I have said before, when small companies with great passion for the industry build a home, you can usually feel pretty good about its quality and Destiny seems to be no exception to that rule! Dutch Housing Inc. 1500 N Detroit Street PO Box 258 LaGrange, IN 46761 Phone: 219-463-3199 www.dutch-housing.com States Sold In: AR, CO, DE, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY Company Background: Dutch housing was launched in 1991 by a group from Redman. The purpose was to introduce a home package with no options or upgrades offering a mid-range home at an entry-level price point. They were successful at this and became part of the Champion family in 1994. During the industry crash at the turn of the century, they began offering more customization and were able to survive though on a much smaller scale. Comments: Based on my research the company is producing an entry-level product. I have spoken to people who have purchased a Dutch home and for the most part the company seems to be taking care of their customers. They do offer a 30lb roof load, 2�x6� exterior walls and 2�x6� or 2�x8� floor joists. I have found the exteriors to be somewhat plain looking. I do like the 32-foot wide section homes they offer. The company�s website is basic but you can take a tour and look at floor plans and they do offer a list of standard features.

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Fairmont Homes 502 S. Oakland Nappanee, IN 46550 Phone: 574-773-7941 www.fairmonthomes.com States Sold In: IN, KS, NE, SD, ND, MN, WI, MO, IL, IA, KY, WV, OH, PA, NY Company background: James F. Shea, Sr. started Fairmont Homes in 1971. He had been working as a successful attorney in Detroit, Michigan but was intrigued with the possibilities of manufactured housing. He set up a manufacturing plant in an old sauerkraut factory in Nappanee Indiana. Fairmont has since experienced tremendous success, becoming one of the largest single location facilities in the housing industry. They have evolved into a family of companies that produce valuable and diverse housing. In the past 35+ years, Fairmont Homes has built thousands of family homes with the comfort, security and general well being that only a quality-built home can offer. The son of the founder, James Foster Shea, currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. Comments: Fairmont Homes has been exceeding the expectations of homeowners for nearly 30 years. Fairmont�s main selling point is called their, Cradle of Strength Construction, which is featured on their website. Fairmont Homes are very attractive compared to other manufacturers in my opinion and I find their website to be very informative with photos showing the interior and exterior of their homes. They offer a variety of floor plans with many residential features as the picture above shows. They offer a home with log type siding for that cabin look along with added features like attached garages; steeper roof pitch options and lap siding. Looking through the pictures of Fairmont�s homes give you a good idea of what a little extra design can do for the aesthetics of a home inside and out. Fairmont Homes is also going after the manufactured home market by producing quality homes built to state and local building codes. The cost to upgrade from a HUD-code home to a manufactured product is in the neighborhood of $10,000 and in my opinion is definitely worth the extra money, especially if you consider the appreciation values in the long run. Here again this is a smaller company that is able to keep track of quality control issues and service their customers at the same time. I would recommend visiting their website to learn more about this amazing company.

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Fleetwood Homes 3125 Myers St., P.O. Box 7638 Riverside, CA 92513-7638 USA Phone: 909-351-3500 www.fleetwood.com States Sold In: All but AK & HI Company background: Since 1950 Fleetwood has made a name for themselves, having originally started in the RV industry, they have been a leading producer for many years. Fleetwood offers the possibility of home ownership to almost anyone and backs their homes with outstanding service and warranty protection. Fleetwood is the second largest manufacturer in the United States. Fleetwood homes come in many shapes and sizes with hundreds of models to choose from. We found their closest competitors to be Clayton, Southern Energy, Giles, Liberty, General Manufactured Housing, Titan, Advantage, Gateway, Hart Housing, and Cappaert. Comments: There are a lot of standard features in a Fleetwood home that may be considered upgrades with other builders. Fleetwood in general falls into the, �Entry-Level Category�, with affordability being their strongest selling point. Most Fleetwood dealers are willing to negotiate with homebuyers and I believe they offer in-house financing. Fleetwood does manufacture some nice upper-lines, and they have a good reputation in the industry for service. In the Northwest for example they build nice three and four-section homes with covered porches and 6/12 roof pitches. For the most part Fleetwood is appealing to the entry-level and mid-range buyers. Fleetwood�s primary focus is HUD-code manufactured homes but I expect them to move towards manufactured homes in the near future. Fortune Homes (A subsidiary of Champion) 305 W. Dutch Dr, PO Box 40 La grange, IN 46761 Phone: 260-499-3355 States Sold In: MI, OH, IN, IL, PA, IA, MO, WI Company Background: Fortune Homes and Dutch Housing, both subsidiaries of Champion, are basically identical. Dutch was started in 1991 and Fortune just a few years later. One of the distinguishing characteristics of these companies is that the same floor plans are available in every price point. Taken from their website, �Fortune Homes is unique. We give our customers the ability to make their own choices on their own home. This will make Fortune Homes the choice of more home-buyers! We start with a basic floor plan and build from there. All homes are standard with 2x6 exterior walls... R-19 Wall Insulation... R-33 Minimum Roof Insulation... Basically all the components needed for a move-in ready home.� Comments: The Midwest is a market nearly flooded with affordable housing companies like Fortune. Many of them are Champion Enterprises also (like Fortune�s �twin� Dutch). What seems to keep them afloat is their quality. They offer a well-built product at an in-demand price point.

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Four Seasons Housing Inc. (Out of Business) PO Box 630 Middlebury, IN 46540 Phone: 800-547-5011 www.fourseasonshousing.com Franklin Homes Inc. 10655 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 Phone: 800-332-4511 www.franklinhomesusa.com States Sold In: AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MO, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX

Company Background: Franklin Homes has been under the same management since producing their first home in May of 1969. It is a full service manufacturing company. That means they design, assemble, deliver, and offer factory service to home buyers through service technicians that are sent from the factory. Franklin Homes does not sell direct to the public but through licensed and authorized dealers. They began production in a small building covering 40,000 square

feet. They expanded the size of the plant until 1985. During the winter of 1985, a freak ice storm collapsed the main plant building. Then Franklin moved down the road to Phil Campbell, AL, where production continued until the plant was built back on the original property. Their current plant has the best and most modern equipment available according to a company spokesperson. Comments: Franklin Homes declined to speak with me or my research team. I find their homes to be basic looking with very little residential appeal in my opinion. Their homes come standard with 2�x6� floor joists, 2�x4� exterior walls with vinyl rapped sheet rock. The roof loads are only 20 pounds with a 20-year shingle and particleboard cabinets. I like some of their floor plans and styles but for the most part the company is appealing to the entry-level buyer. The company�s website has a tour page showing some pictures of their factory. They do list standard construction features on their website.

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Fuqua Homes of Missouri P O Box 394 Boonville, Missouri 65233 Phone: 660-882-3411 www.fuquahomes-mo.com States Sold In: WY, CO, OK, KS, NE, SD, MN, IA, MO, AR, IL, IN Company Background: Fuqua Homes has set a standard for high quality construction in the industry. Fuqua, for the most part, compares closely to a site-built home. Fuqua's construction is far superior to less durable manufactured homes. They pay attention to the quality of their materials and workmanship. From their website: �We believe that when you see the facts and see the difference you'll choose Fuqua over manufactured, manufactured, or site built homes of lesser quality.� If I were standing in one of these homes, I would find it hard to believe it was a HUD home. The exteriors are lovely and the quality that they pride themselves on is evident. Don�t miss this company!

Comments: A Fuqua homes costs a little more compared to other HUD-code manufacturers but they are a well built with lots of residential appeal. The company goes beyond the norm when it comes to residential appeal and home construction. I really like the looks of Fuqua homes and feel they are probably one of the best looking manufactured homes on the market today. Based on my research the company falls into the, �Premium Category.� One nice construction feature I have noticed with Fuqua homes is they screw and glue their sub-floors down, instead of just nailing the floor down. Another feature that impresses me about Fuqua is their garage-friendly floor plans. You can attach a garage to the home once it has been set up. In the past you always had to build the garage separate from the home, which takes away from the residential appeal. This is an important feature and should be considered if your budget allows. While their HUD-code homes do very well the company�s manufactured home division is the shinning star in my opinion. Their manufactured homes are beautiful and affordable. For only $10,000 more you can upgrade from a HUD-code home to a manufactured home. If you�re a mid-range to upper-end buyer Fuqua is a good choice with affordable pricing that will fit any budget. The company�s website is choked full of information including pictures and constructions specifications.

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Fuqua Homes of Bend Oregon 20495 Murray Rd.97701 Toll: 800.336.0874 Phone: 541.382.4252 www.fuquahomes.com/ States Sold In: WA, OR, ID, CA, UT, NV, MT

Company Background: Fuqua builds the most flexible and custom HUD-code manufactured homes today. Fuqua Homes has set a standard for high quality construction in the industry and for the most part they compare to stick-built homes. Fuqua's construction is far superior to less durable manufactured homes. They pay attention to the quality of their materials and workmanship. From their website: �We believe that when you see the facts and see the difference you'll choose Fuqua over manufactured, manufactured, or site built homes of lesser quality.�

Comments: If you�re after a residential look in a HUD-code manufactured home than Fuqua may be the right choice. Fuqua homes costs a bit more compared to other manufacturers but like I have been saying all along if you want quality you�re going to have to pay for it. On average Fuqua homes cost about $45 to $70 a square foot. Fuqua goes beyond the norm when it comes to residential appeal and home construction. Fuqua homes fall into the, �Premium Category.� Fuqua uses 2" x 6" studs for their exterior walls, which contains 35% more lumber than conventional 2"x4" walls. Fuqua also screws the sub-floors down in all wet areas like, kitchens and bathrooms. Fuqua's walls are nailed, glued and strapped for maximum strength and durability. Fuqua also installs energy-efficient gaskets around all exterior wall receptacles and switches for further energy savings. I like their website and feel they do a great job in getting the information out on how their homes are constructed. There are rumors floating around that Fuqua will soon be offering on-frame and off-frame manufactured homes. This would be a step in the right direction in my opinion. Their HUD-code homes are beautiful and I can only imagine how nice a manufactured home built by Fuqua would be. Giles Industries 405 South Broad Street New Tazewell, TN 37825 Phone: 800-844-4537 www.gilesindustries.com States Sold In: AL, DE, GA, IN, KY, NY, NC, OH, SC, TN, VA, WV, Company Background: Founded in 1959 by R.O. Giles and family owned for three generations, Giles has kept its focus on providing quality homes at affordable price points for nearly fifty years. Though they once ventured into offices, school rooms and even RVs, they returned to the HUD home industry exclusively in the mid 80�s, targeting the entry-level market. Although they are one of the oldest mobile home manufacturers in the world, they feel confident about meeting the changing needs of today�s modern family. The way to

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success in business is through hard work and ethical treatment of employees and customers. Comments: Though they do not allow for customization, Giles offers better features as standard than many of their competitors. This allows them to sell a nicer home at competitive price points. They also offer a good warranty service program. Entry-levels homebuyers can feel good about a Giles home. Golden West (Clayton) 3100 N. Perris Blvd Perris, CA 92571 www.goldenwesthomes.com States Sold In: WA, OR, CA, NV, ID, UT, AZ, MN, WY, MT Company Background: Golden West started building homes in 1965 and is well-known throughout the Northwest region of the United States. According to the company�s website Golden West is among the top 20 manufacturers in the United States. From its very first home in 1965, Golden West�s has built more than 70,000 homes. Oakwood Homes purchased Golden West in 1994 and the quality seemed to drop drastically. Then in 2000 the quality started improving and has continued, with the most recent purchase of the company by Clayton in 2004. We found their closest competitors to be Karsten, Silvercrest, Hallmark Southwest, Skyline, and Fleetwood. Comments: Golden West brags they have the best longitudinal floor system in the industry but I am not a big fan of longitudinal floor systems. If you decide to purchase a Golden West make sure to set your home on a HUD-compliant foundation with concrete or cinder blocks or steel piers and a solid perimeter wall. On the positive side Golden West has some very unique floor plans. When you walk into a Golden West you feel like you�re in a stick-built home with, fireplaces, high ceilings and fully taped and textured walls. Golden West homes fall into the, �Above Average Category.� Golden West is appealing to the mid-range and upper-end buyers and on average a Golden West will cost between $45.00 and $65.00 per square foot. I would recommend upgrading to lap siding and eliminate some of the trim work on the outside, which I find to be overkill on many of their models. I would also upgrade from a 3/12 roof pitch to a 4/12 if your budget allows. The company�s website is basic and lacks and real information.

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Hallmark Southwest Corporation PO Box 1710 Loma Linda, CA 92354 Phone: 909-796-2561 www.hallmarksouthwest.com/ States Sold In: CA, AZ, NV Company Background: This small, family owned business was started in 1977. They have stayed successful since then by simply keeping things small. They focus on local communities and the loyal customers they make there. They offer standard amenities that are typically sold as options with their competitors. You won�t see any advertising or sales staff here. They operate on referrals alone. We found that their closest competitors were Silvercrest, Palm Harbor, Skyline, and Fleetwood. Comments: Hallmark Homes is a top quality builder using 2�x6� exterior walls, 2�x8� floor joists and 2�x4� interior walls. All their homes are taped and textured with solid wood cabinets and quality plumbing fixtures throughout. The company falls into the, �Premium Category.� On average a Hallmark home will cost $55.00 to $65.00 per sq. ft. If you live in California and you�re looking for an upper-end HUD-code manufactured home visit Hallmark. Hart Housing Group 1025 E Waterford St. P.O. Box 406 Wakarusa, IN 46573 Phone: 219-862-4461 www.harthousing.com/ States Sold In: WY, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA, MO, WI, IL, MI, IN, KY, TN, OH, PA, NY, ME

Company Background: Hart Housing was recently sold to the Forest River Corporation. Many of you may know of Forest River, they build recreational vehicles. Forest River liked Hart Housing business model and plan and decided to purchase the company a few years ago. Hart Housings previous owner Ken Brinks was instrumental in starting Dutch Housing in the 1990�s. Dutch Housing became a popular manufacturer and was noted for its quality construction and good reputation. Champion Homes acquired Dutch Housing a number of

years ago and that is when Ken decided to start another company called Hart Housing Group. Since 1996, Forest River�s large production capacity has enabled them to fill customers' orders promptly without cutting corners or rushing through production procedures. This ensures that each Forest River product is conscientiously built and undergoes thorough, detailed inspection before it's shipped to the customer. Comments: Hart homes come standard with residential type features inside and out. People who purchase a Hart home are interested in quality and dependability. Based on my

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research the company exceeds the HUD standards in many areas of construction. I have studied their standard features and believe they make one of the best built HUD-code manufactured homes on the market. Hart Housing is starting to go after the manufactured home industry by offering many different styles of floor plans including a Cape-Cods series and two-story homes. They anticipate 60% of their production to be manufactured homes. I am excited to see Hart Housing make this step, which will be a profitable venture. If you�re a mid-range to upper-end buyer Hart Homes is worth checking out. Highland Manufacturing Inc. P.O Box 427 Worthington, MN 56187 Phone: 507-376-9460 www.highlandmanufacturing.com/ States Sold In: CO, IA, MI, MN, ND, SD, WY Company Background: Highland was founded in 1986 by Greg DeGroot and a group of private investors when they acquired a plant that had been built some years prior and was not succeeding. Now president and CEO, Greg DeGroot and his associates have brought the plant up to well producing standards. The main product for Highland has always been HUD-code housing but they are producing manufactured homes as well now. Comments: There is little information on this company. The product is a, no-frills home. The company was not interested in speaking with me or my research team. I have not heard of any negative comments about company but to be fair I have not researched them enough to accurately describe them in any detail. One of those companies that is hard to get any real information. Hi-Tech Housing, Inc. 19319 County Road 8 Bristol, Indiana 46507 574-848-5593 / Fax 574-848-5472 www.hi-techhousing.com States Sold In: FL, MS, LA, KY, OK, TX, AR, MO Company Background: Hi-Tech Housing, Inc. is one of the leading manufacturers of custom manufactured and HUD-manufactured homes. From the start, Hi-Tech Housing�s goal has been to advance the manufactured housing industry into new frontiers. Hi-Tech Housing combines state-of-the-art home building products, innovations and procedures used by site-builders with the efficiencies of building a home in a factory where all aspects of construction - from framing to finishing - are monitored by experienced quality control specialists. Hi-Tech Housing brings manufactured homes and

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light commercial structures to a new level of excellence and to a broader market appeal and acceptance. Comments: Developer Charles Fanaro wanted to build a high-end retirement community featuring HUD-code manufactured homes that were as aesthetically pleasing to the eye as stick-built homes. However, Charles could not find a factory to build a HUD-code home to his expectations. So, with fellow investors, he founded Hi-Tech Housing in 1992. The company enjoys working with developers and builders that are interested in utilizing manufactured or HUD-Code housing. Hi-Tech homes are of as good or better quality than many site-built homes. They are a low-key company not even actively advertising much or really looking for new dealers. They are �the best-kept secret in high-end HUD housing in my opinion�. Holly Park P.O Box 620567 Vicksburg, MS 39182 Phone: 601-636-5401 www.holly-park.com States Sold In: FL, MS, LA, KY, OK, TX, AR, MO Company Background: Holly Park and their sister company, Indiana Building systems both use the same facility to build their HUD-code manufactured homes. Holly Park got its start in 1964 and has always been a well-known brand in the Indiana region. Pleasant Street Homes purchased the company in 2001. Pleasant Street was a new company looking to add an affordable HUD-code line to its products. Holly Park designs and builds homes. That is all that they do. Their efforts and abilities are focused on manufacturing homes that meet and exceed expectations. From start to finish, they seem to take great pride in providing homeowners with a quality home. Starting with an affordable set of base specifications and allowing you to add the options that YOU want, and allowing you to balance cost and features, ensures that you get the home you want at the price that is right for you. �Our emphasis is on quality, product innovation and customer satisfaction.� Comments: Holly Park is growing and adding new dealers every month. They offer a quality built home at affordable prices. The company is flexible when it comes to making changes and offers a wide variety of floor plans and options. They have an excellent warranty program and based on my research I would have to put them in the, �Above Average� category. If you�re an entry-level to mid-range home buyer Holly Park may be worth checking out. A large percentage of their production is for manufactured homes, which is a good sign in my opinion. It seems more and more manufacturers are moving in this direction. If I were purchasing a home from Holly Park it would probably be one of their manufactured homes. The cost difference is not that much more with better financing options.

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Homark Homes The HOMARK Company, Inc 100 Third Street Red Lake Falls, MN, 56750 Phone: 218-253-2777 www.homark.com States Sold In: MN, ND, SD, IA, WI, MI Company Background: In February 1991, the Homark factory was purchased by 46 employees from private ownership. These employees signed personal commitments to make the purchase, which gave them control of all facets of the business of building Manufactured Homes. Since that time, the factory has grown substantially now offering a manufactured product as well. The employee-owners are �very proud of the products they build, and want everyone to know that the HOMARK Home you've purchased was "BUILT WITH PRIDE" by the company owners.� As an employee owned company, they implemented a "Total Commitment to Quality" program in 1994. �We start with a very simple but responsible philosophy of quality with our employees at HOMARK. If the material is not equal to their workmanship, they may reject the material involved.� They also have full time quality control personnel inspecting each home. Comments: Homark offers a very nice selection of homes (including a very attractive cabin series). They also add a few more niceties in their standard packages than most and they offer great upgrade packages as well. They even clearly state, �The floor plans available in our catalogs and online are the most popular ones. All floor plans are completely customizable to fit your needs.� The company�s website is consumer friendly and well-put-together. The company�s closest competitors are; Skyline, Liberty, Wick, BonnaVilla and Champion�s high-end products. Most home buyers probably have not heard of this company but I do place them in the premium category. They build both HUD-code manufactured homes and manufactured homes. Homebuilders Northwest, Inc. 1650 Industrial Drive Salem, OR 97305 Phone: 503-391-8936 www.homebuildersnorthwest.com/ States Sold In: WA, OR, ID, CA Company Background: �The strength of a company is its people, not its capacity� That is the philosophy expressed on Homebuilders Northwest�s website. They recognize that your investment in a new home is likely to be the most important decision you make in your lifetime so it is important that your needs are met, your expectations are fulfilled, and your investment is secure. HBN sees their role as your builder requiring your confidence in their ability, and your trust in their judgment. They provide superior materials and workmanship while controlling unnecessary expenses that could deteriorate affordability. Homebuilders Northwest, Inc. is independently owned and operated, with all homes built at the Salem, Oregon facility and distributed by authorized professionals throughout the Pacific Northwest.

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Comments: Homebuilders N.W. is a small company and because of this most home buyers living in the N.W. have never heard of them. As with smaller companies they build an excellent home, using quality materials and they exceed HUD standards in construction. This company is a premium builder and their homes on average cost $45 and $65 a square foot. Homebuilder Northwest has a good reputation in the industry for servicing their customers. A great company if you�re a mid-range to upper-end buyer looking for quality construction and trying to stay within your budget. Homes of Merit (Subsidiary of Champion Homes) Highway 100 East Lake City, FL 32055 Phone: 904-755-3073 www.homes-of-merit.com/ States Sold In: FL, SC, AL, MS, LA Company Background: Homes of Merit was founded by Chuck Weeder in 1973. Chuck had a vision to create a company that produced quality HUD-code manufactured homes. In 1973, his company produced approximately 2.5 million dollars in sales. In 1984, Homes of Merit production capabilities had reached a maximum in the now 3 plants. Orders for homes were so strong they were not able to build the homes fast enough. The company expanded into Lake City, Florida and production began in 1985. Another plant was built in 1988 next to the existing plant in Lake City, Florida to keep up with sales. In 1996 in response to strong sales and the desire to move into a different product line, plant 3 was built. As a result of its growth, Homes of Merit has become the largest single location producer in the State of Florida. Because of tremendous success Homes of Merit was acquired by Champion Enterprises in January of 1999. Comments: Homes of Merit is an above average builder that builds a quality HUD product at affordable prices. The company is appealing to entry-level and mid-range buyers. The exteriors to me seem plain with not much residential appeal. They also use gypsum board, which is typically thinner compared to sheet rock in some of their models. I found their website to be somewhat disappointing with no real information about how their homes are constructed.

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Horton Homes Inc. P.O. Drawer 4410 Eatonton, GA 31024 Phone: 800-657-4000 www.hortonhomes.com/ States Sold In: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA Company Background: Horton Homes, for over a quarter century, has valued a tradition of quality for homeowners throughout the Southeastern United States and the world. Superior construction combined with energy efficiency and homes loaded with amenities, has made Horton Homes a leader in the manufactured housing industry. Horton Homes, located in Eatonton, Georgia, is a leading producer of HUD code manufactured homes and manufactured homes at a single facility in the nation. They got their start manufacturing three homes a week from an abandoned chicken house in 1970. Since then, Horton has grown to a 100 acre facility, with a manufacturing capacity of 100 floors per day. Comments: Horton is a smaller company that pays attention to quality control issues and customer service. I like the fact that Horton is appealing to both the entry-level buyer and the upper-end buyer by offering both HUD-code homes and manufactured homes. Those that I�ve talked to that have purchased a Horton home have been pleased with their purchase and service. After reviewing Horton�s construction specifications and talking with the company I really like Horton�s manufactured homes, which are a step up compared to other manufactured homes built by HUD producers. Horton manufactured homes make up about 30% to 40% of total production. With unique floor plans including a two story model, Horton manufactured homes may overtake their manufactured home division. One can expect to pay around $10,000 more for a manufactured home built to state and local building standards compared to a HUD-code home. If you�re a mid-range or upper-end buyer looking for a quality HUD-code home or a manufactured home that has residential appeal with a price tag that is sure to please than check out Horton Homes. Indies Homes (Out of Business) Highway 172 East PO Box 190 Hackleburg, AL 35564 Phone: 205-935-3117

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Jacobsen Homes P.O. Box 368 901 Fourth Street North Safety Harbor, FL 34695 Phone: 800-843-1559 www.jachomes.com/ State Sold In: Florida

Company Background: From their founding days in 1959 to the present, Jacobsen Homes has practiced a commitment to quality, flexibility and customer service. They strive to use only the finest products and materials. �People say there is uniqueness about a Jacobsen Home that no other builder has matched.� They have successfully merged state-of-the-art engineering with the all-important, human touch. Special attention is given to every detail in each home to bring you the very best home at an affordable price�

Comments: Jacobsen Homes are considered by many to be one of the best-built HUD-code manufactured homes in Florida. They have a good reputation for quality and customer service. In most models 2�x8� floor joists are used and 2�x6� lumber is used in the exterior walls. The interior walls have 2�x4� lumber and not 2�x3� lumber found in many homes today. Jacobsen homes fall into the, �Premium Category�. The average price per square foot is between $45 and $60. The company is appealing to the mid-range and upper-end buyers with stick-built features and residential appeal being their main focus. I highly recommend Jacobsen Homes to anybody considering purchasing a HUD-code manufactured home in Florida. Jacobsen�s website is excellent and I would have to rate it right up there with, Commodore Homes, Hart Housing and R-Anell�s websites. Their tour page is excellent with detailed information about their homes. Karsten Company (Clayton) 9998 Old Placerville Road Sacramento, CA 95827 Phone: 916-363-2681 www.thekarstenco.com States Sold In: OK, TX, CO, WY, NM, AZ, UT, NV, CA, OR, WA, ID, MT, AK, KS, AR, LA Company Background: Before the name Karsten emerged in the industry, they were known as Golden West Homes in Northern California, which sold out to Oakwood Homes. This new company then restarted in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The company used the same construction methods they used when building the Golden West Homes. Clayton purchased Karsten in 2005, but Harry Karsten is still at the helm. We have found their closest competitors to be Skyline, Silvercrest, Cavco, Hallmark southwest, Marlette, and Golden West. Comments: Karsten Homes are getting a lot of attention these days, they are building quality homes using 2�x6� lumber for their exterior walls and �2x�4 studs for the interior walls. Karsten uses 1�/2� sheet rock throughout and their frames are recessed at both ends

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for future blocking or permanent foundation. Karsten claims they use 30% more steel in their chassis and that their floors don�t flex like other manufactured homes. I am not a big fan of longitudinal floors but Karsten seems to be doing a good job. Karsten falls into the, �Premium Category.� The majority of homes being produced are HUD-code manufactured homes with a small percentage of on-frame manufactured homes being produced. I found Karsten�s website to be basic and their tour page was very limited. Based on my research the company has a high customer satisfaction rating. Kit Homebuilders West LLC P.O Box 250 Caldwell, ID 83606 Phone: 208-454-5000 www.kitwest.com States Sold In: ID, OR, WA, NV, CA, MT, CO, UT Company Background: Kit Manufacturing was founded in 1945 and has built thousands of HUD-code manufactured homes over the years. Like many companies, they were hit by the manufactured home slump that occurred in the late 90�s, as they were primarily selling in this market. They were then bought out by Miles Standish and Michael Wolf, both well reputed in the industry, and re-launched as Kit Homebuilders West LLC. Now they focus strictly on the HUD-code market specializing in homes for the entry-level and mid-range buyer. Comments: The new owners are no-nonsense types who have done well with the company, which was difficult to work with in the past. The new product is much improved and they are expanding their dealer network. Most home buyers I speak with have not heard of Kit Homebuilders. They do build a solid HUD-product at prices below most other builders. They do not offer a manufactured product at this time. Their website, though it was lacking in the type of photos you typically like to see, was one of the most informational I�ve seen. Loads of info on how the homes are built and why manufactured homes are a good choice. This company gives me the impression that they are very up-front about their product and that makes you feel like you�re really getting a quality product. They sure aren�t hiding anything. Laurel Creek Homes (Out of Business) 1635 South 43rd Ave Phoenix, AZ 85009 Phone: 877-369-4602

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Liberty Homes Inc. PO Box 35 / 1101 Eisenhower Drive N Goshen, IN 46527-0035 Phone: 574-533-0431 www.libertyhomesinc.com States Sold In: AL, AR, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY Company Background: Liberty Homes recently celebrated their 60th anniversary as one of the nation's oldest and largest builders of manufactured and manufactured homes. They are selling about 40% off-frame manufactured homes. They stress high quality workmanship and product control. They claim to have all the advantages of stick-built homes but with better quality materials. They are operating out of 6 locations in Oregon, Kansas, Wisconsin, Alabama, Indiana, and North Carolina. Their most popular style of home is their Cape Cod series. Comments: When I was selling homes in the late 1990�s Liberty Homes were considered an entry-level home at best with not much exterior appeal. Over the years this has changed and the company has changed course dramatically, they now offer a quality HUD-code home and a very nice off-frame manufactured home in my opinion. I give Liberty Homes, high marks across the board and feel they deserve the respect that is often attributed to upper-end homebuilders. Liberty does offer in-house financing for their customers. I found their closest competitors to be Patriot, Ritz-Craft, Commodore, Skyline, Wick, Fleetwood Clayton and Palm Harbor. I found Liberty�s website to be somewhat vague on construction methods but their website does provide other information along with pictures and virtual tours of some homes. I personally like their manufactured homes and feel they offer homebuyers a good value for the money. Magnolia Homes Inc. 982 Rundell Road Gering, NE 69341 Phone: 308-436-3131 www.magnoliahomes.biz/page1.html States Sold In: WY, SD, NE, UT, CO Company Background: Magnolia Homes first began production of quality manufactured homes in the Scottsbluff/Gering, Nebraska area in 1958. They eventually outgrew their production facility, and in 1971 a "state of the art" production facility was designed and built in Gering. It is this facility which continues to operate today. This new facility allowed manufactured homes to be constructed in one piece. Building the home together, then separating it for shipment, guarantees a proper fit when it is installed on site. This "marriage wall" style of construction, pioneered by Magnolia Homes, is still used today and elevates Magnolia's reputation as an industry leader in product design and dependability.

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Comments: Magnolia is an independently owned and operated company. The company takes pride in building high-quality homes. This pride shines through every aspect of their business from their total commitment to customer satisfaction, to the well-being and prosperity of their employees. For over 40 years the Magnolia name has represented quality in manufactured and manufactured homes. Magnolia Homes offers a variety of different styles at a variety of different price-levels with exceptional value. The company builds both HUD-code homes and manufactured homes. Their manufactured division is exceptional in my opinion. Magnolia is a small company with a highly trained workforce that translates into a well-built home. This company received high marks all across the board and base on our research is a top-notch company with a bright future. Their website is consumer friendly with construction specifications, pictures and allows homebuyers to locate a building in their area. Marlette Homes (Please See Schult Article) Moduline International Inc. 1175 Railway Ave. PO Box 190 Penticton, BC V2A 6K3 Canada Phone: 250-493-0122 1421 Briar Park Crescent Medicine Hat, AB T1A 7E4 Canada Phone: 403-527-1555 www.moduline.ca States Sold In: WA, ID, MT, AK, WY, ND, SD, MN; BC and Alberta, Canada Company Background: Founded in 1969 and purchased by Champion in 1993, they are known for their high quality craftsmanship which can likely be attributed to the longevity of their employees. They are a reputable builder in the northern states. With 35 years of residential design and construction experience the company has earned a reputation for excellence in the manufactured housing industry. During this time their facilities have produced an average of 800 homes per year. Comments: Moduline builds a good, solid, well insulated HUD-code manufactured home, which is a must in the northern states. Their warranty is outstanding. It is more expensive to ship across the border but Moduline may have enough going for it to make the distance worthwhile. The company also builds manufactured homes, which makes up for over 80% of production. The company is competing with Palm Harbor, Guerdon and Silvercrest Homes. Based on our research they provide a quality product and follow it up with good customer service. The company�s website is basic with no construction information.

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Nashua PO Box 170008 Boise ID 83717 Phone: 208-345-0222 www.nashuahomesofidaho.com/ Locations: AK, AZ, CA, CO, MT, NE, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY Company Background: Taken from Nashua�s website: �Nashua established its Idaho facility in Boise's first industrial park on Gowen Field in 1956. To accommodate the housing demand, we moved to an 86,000 square foot facility in 1988. Additional land and manufacturing space have been added since then. Nashua is committed to serving the unique needs of the western United States. With customers as far away as Alaska, we can build for the demanding Alaskan cold, as well as adapting to the hotter climates of Nevada and Arizona. Our homes exceed the federal standards set forth by HUD. The structural integrity of a Nashua home will give you peace of mind for years to come.� Comments: I get a kick out of Nashua�s website. The first page goes right into what really matters, quality construction. The company lists all the standard features for everybody to see. Nashua is a small company that pays attention to detail and I would recommend them to anyone considering a HUD-code manufactured home. By adding lap siding to their homes and attaching a garage their homes will look like a site-built home when completed. I also find Nashua to be very affordable and on average their homes cost between $30 and $45 per square foot. The company does not advertise much and many people are not aware they exist. On the negative side the company is not doing much in the way of manufactured housing but I am sure this will change in time. A gem of a company worth checking out! New Era Building Systems 451 Southern Ave Strattanville, PA 16258 Phone: 800-678-5581 www.new-era-homes.com States Sold In: PA, NY, CT, NH, VT, ME, IL, MA, NJ, MD, DE, VA, WV, IN Company Background: Established in 1992, New Era Building Systems is a proven leader and innovator in the manufactured industry. All of New Era homes are built in a climate-controlled factory. This means that weather related problems are minimal. The company claims their homes are up to 20% stronger than a traditional stick built home, because manufactured homes have to withstand transportation. Based on our research this is an accurate percentage and is true with most true manufactured home builders in the United States. Comments: New Era is a quality company that has been in business for over fifteen years, building both HUD-code manufactured homes and manufactured homes. The company�s manufactured homes cost a bit more than most, but you will be getting a better built home that stands up to the test of time. The company also builds a nice custom manufactured home built to state and local building codes. They have existing floor plans that you can choose from or they can custom build your home from your plan. They also do a small business in multi-family and commercial units. I have talked to a few of their builders and

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they all give New Era high marks for quality construction and customer service after the sale. Oak Creek Homes (American Homestar) 2450 South Shore Blvd, Suite 300 League City, Texas, 77573 www.oakcreekhomes.com States Sold In: TX, NM, CO, KS, OK, AK, MS, LA Company Background: Oak Creek Homes manufactured by American Homestar are built by people with many years of home building experience. That's decades of providing industry-acclaimed off-site home design and construction. Oak Creek�s team continues to deliver what homebuyers are looking for in new homes along with quality construction that exceeds expectations. American Homestar Corporation is a vertically integrated factory built housing company, with operations in manufacturing, retailing, financing and insurance. The company is known throughout the Southwest as a builder of the quality manufactured and manufactured homes. American Homestar is recognized for its innovative designs, distinctive architectural exteriors, flexible floor plans and custom amenities. American Homestar homes are built to appeal to both the first time homebuyer on a budget and move-up homebuyers looking for the larger, higher quality home with custom features Comments: I give Oak Creek Homes a high rating because of the quality that goes into each home. The company offers a seven year warranty plan, which is unheard of in the industry. Based on my research the company takes great pride in making sure their customers are taken care of after the sale. The company provides an attractive home with quality materials at a price that is hard to beat. The ability to keep everything (financing & insurance) �in house� is also very appealing. Based on my research the company has a good reputation in the industry. American Homestar sells its homes through a network of company owned and independently owned retail centers, builders and developers throughout the Southwestern U.S. I like this company and if you�re looking for an affordable manufactured or manufactured home they are definitely worth taking a look at. Oakwood Homes 7800 McCloud Rd. Greensboro, NC 27409-7081 Phone: 336-664-2400 www.oakwoodhomes.com Locations: Available in most States Company Background: Oakwood Homes Corporation is a fully integrated housing company - manufacturing, retailing, financing and insuring quality factory-built homes across the nation. Founded in 1946, Oakwood Homes is headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina. It is a publicly held company trading under the ticker symbol OKWHQ.

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Comments: Like Champion, Oakwood was on a buying spree a number of years ago, gobbling up smaller companies like: Crest Homes, Freedom Homes, Golden West, House Smart and Marlette Homes. Oakwood has a poor reputation in the industry for servicing their customers in my opinion. I have spoken with a number of people who have purchased an Oakwood product only to be disappointed. Now, I am sure there are some upstanding sales centers for Oakwood. I am not suggesting that all sale centers or dealers that offer Oakwood homes are run poorly. Warren Buffet purchased Oakwood homes a number or years ago and I was hoping their quality would improve but it did not. Now, Clayton Homes has acquired Oakwood Homes and this is good news for the company. I feel Clayton will do a better job in managing the company and hopefully restore their reputation in the industry. Palm Harbor Inc 15303 Dallas Parkway Suite 800 Addison, TX 75001 Phone: 972-991-2422 www.palmharbor.com/ States Sold In: WA, OR, ID, MT, CA, NV, AZ, NM, CO, TX, OK, AR, LA, MS, AL, FL, GA, SC, NC, VA, DE, TN, KY, IL, IN, OH, MI

Company Background: Based in Dallas, Texas, Palm Harbor Homes is one of the nation's largest marketers of factory-built homes. The company's vertically integrated operations set it apart from others in the industry. Palm Harbor builds, sells, finances and insures the best manufactured homes available today. Palm Harbor's focus is the high-end, customized niche of the HUD-code manufactured home market. Four out of five homes produced in its 18 manufacturing

facilities across the country are customized with owner-selected features. Palm Harbor sells its homes through 115 company-owned superstores and more than 350 independent retailers. Comments: For almost 30 years, Palm Harbor Homes has providing beautiful and affordable homes with quality construction and lasting customer satisfaction. The company has a good reputation in the industry with innovative design and superior craftsmanship not normally found in HUD-code homes. I give Palm Harbor high scores across the board and recommend anyone considering a mid-range to upper-end home to take a look at this company. The company is also moving into the manufactured market with some nice floor plans and designs that is guaranteed to turn some heads. Palm Harbor main competitors are; Karsten, Golden West, Fuqua and Hallmark Homes SW. The company�s website is consumer friendly with a construction page and other important information.

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Pine Grove Manufactured Homes, Inc. P.O. Box 128 Pine Grove, PA 17963 Phone: 570-345-2811 www.pinegrovehomes.com/ States Sold In: VA, WV, OH, PA, MD, DE, NJ, NY, CT, RI, MA, NH, VT, ME Company Background: Pine Grove Manufactured Homes, Inc. is a privately held, independent designer and builder of manufactured housing. Pine Grove has been a trusted source of quality, value, and innovation since 1982. They own and operate one large state-of-the-art manufacturing center in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania. Pine Grove offers a long-standing tradition of providing quality homes at competitive prices with a size and design for every need. The company has a long history of financial strength and consistent operations. Pine Grove builds high-quality manufactured homes, as well as a line of manufactured homes. Pine Grove is home to one of the industry's most renowned design teams. �We invite you to view our beautiful modern homes and see for yourself why Pine Grove has won accolades for design, quality, and innovation year after year!� Comments: I like this company with its unique designs and quality construction, which exceeds HUD standards. Pine Grove�s HUD-code manufactured homes are a step above other HUD-producers in their markets. The company�s manufactured division called, �Pleasant Valley Homes� are very nice manufactured homes at affordable prices. Overall I would have to place Pine Grove in the premium category. They are a mid-size company that has a good handle on quality control issues. They are friendly to work with and based on my research and their customer service is awesome. The company�s website does provide additional information about construction specifications and pictures of their homes. River Birch Homes 400 River Birch Drive Hackleburg, Alabama 35564 Phone: 205-935-1997 www.riverbirchhomes.com/home States Sold In: AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, MO, OK, SC, TN, Company Background: Delmo Payne and Gerald Terrell combined 50 years of manufactured housing experience and opened River Birch Homes in October, 1997. River Birch is a family-based company offering a variety of options to meet different housing needs. They operate from a 133,738 square foot plant, building single- and multi-section manufactured homes. Their single sections homes range in size from 670 to 1,140 square feet with two or three bedrooms. Their multi-section homes range in size from 1,040 to 2,280 square feet with up to 5 bedrooms. River Birch currently supplies homes to over 100 dealers and sales centers in the Southeast.

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Comments: This is our first time including River Birch in our guides. They seem to build a nice, quality home with some interesting and unique features. They have built strong relationships with their dealers. River Birch keeps things simple. They can build a quality home, price it competitively and offer outstanding customer service. It is these principles that make family owned companies so desirable in the industry. Schult/Marlette Homes P.O. Box 409, Highway K-18 Plainville, KS 67663 Phone 913-434-4617 www.schulthomes.com/ www.marlettehomes.com/ Locations: Available in most States. Company Background: Schult Homes was founded back in 1934 and has garnered a rich tradition that they call the Schult Heritage. �It simply means giving you the best quality possible; dedicating ourselves to craftsmanship in building our products; and providing follow-up service until the customer is completely satisfied.� Clayton Homes recently purchased Marlette/Schult and their manufacturing facilities located in the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast. Clayton Homes allows the company to tailor products to regional needs and preferences. Marlette offers a wide variety of models, floor plans and prices to meet the needs and lifestyles of these regions. Comments: Schult/Marlette have a very good reputation in the industry for building a quality home and servicing their customers. The company falls into the, �Above Average� category. Schult/Marlette offers some very attractive floor plans with covered porches and garage ready applications. When I was selling Valley homes in Washington State my fiercest competitor was Marlette at the time. The company is also building manufactured homes, mostly on-frame with production around 30%. I like this company and would recommend them to anyone looking for a quality home. ScotBilt Homes Inc. 2888 Fulford Rd P.O Box 1189 Waycross, GA 31502 Phone: 912-490-7268 www.scotbilt.com States Sold In: GA, FL, MS, LA, SC, NC, AL Company Background: ScotBilt Homes was built from the ground up in 2004 by Sam and Greg Scott. ScotBilt is the third company to be founded by Sam Scott. He launched Scott Housing Systems in the early 80�s opening ten plants before its sale. Then in 1990, he founded General manufactured Housing. Like Scott Housing, General focused solely on HUD-code homes. Sam sold his interests in General in 1996 and took a 9 year break from the industry before the induction of ScotBilt homes in 2004. The focus market again is entry level homes, this time offering a few �upgraded standards�.

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Their plant is a 150,000 square foot State of the Art Manufacturing Facility. It�s Management Team has over 360 years combined experience! The plant�s carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and roofers have been in the business since the early 1980�s. The mission of ScotBilt Homes is to build a high-quality, low-maintenance manufactured home. Their homes include, as standard, many features typically found only in "stick-built" homes, including eight (8) foot sidewalls, high pitched roofs, plywood floors and upgraded insulation. Comments: In the highly competitive manufactured world in the SE region, ScotBilt is emerging as another worthwhile player. Exteriors are more attractive than many competitors, but the construction quality is poor to average. Not much to say here other than a good looking home built to HUD-specifications. Shamrock Homes P.O Box 620567 Vicksburg, MS 39182 Phone: 601-636-5401 www.shamrock-homes.com States Sold In: IL, IN, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, WI

Company Background: Convinced that there was a market for high-end HUD-code manufactured homes in the Northeast region, Patrick Flynn founded Shamrock homes in 1969. A manufactured home veteran of many years, Flynn set out on his own and earned a reputation building high quality HUD-code homes on par with stick-built,

focusing on manufactured home communities. In 1995, the company ventured into manufactured housing, offering many models in both varieties. A small company by design, Shamrock has come through industry downturns virtually unscathed and maintained high quality standards. Shamrock Homes is a quality custom builder with over 35 years experience in the manufactured housing industry. Shamrock uses quality materials, including many popular brand names. Shamrock Homes allows you to customize your home to make it exactly what you want. Comments: Shamrock Homes has seen a prosperous life due to its dedication to maintain the finest quality in a HUD-code homes and manufactured homes built to state and local codes. Highly customizable floor plans and a unique closed heating system, gives Shamrock strong appeal for the upper-end buyer looking for the residential appeal of a stick-built home without the higher cost. Shamrock offers; strong, quality construction and materials, customization, residential curb appeal. This company rated well in all areas. Shamrock Homes is definitely a premium company that is marketing their homes to mid-range and upper-end buyers.

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Silvercrest 299 N Smith Ave Corona, CA 91720 Phone: 800-382-0709 www.silvercrest.com/ States Sold In: WA, OR, ID, MT, WY, CA, NV, UT, CO, AZ, NM, KS

Company Background: Silvercrest is considered by many to be one of the best builders in the N.W. Silvercrest has two West Coast manufacturing facilities located in Corona and Woodland, California. With over 30 years of experience and a solid reputation for servicing their customers, Silvercrest has made its mark as one of the best in the industry. Silvercrest manufacturer�s two story homes and a builder series home called Good Neighbor Homes. The most popular series is; Manor Estate and Edgewood, both are very nice and definitely in the upper-end category. They also manufacture a Cottage series, which is their value line and

Westwood Homes, which are moderately priced. Silvercrest is probably one of the more expensive homebuilders in the industry. If you�re after the best of the best then Silvercrest is the company. Comments: Silvercrest is a premium company that utilizes innovated designs and quality materials. They offer almost everything you could imagine but would not expect to see in a HUD-code manufactured home. The exteriors of some Silvercrest models look like a mobile home to me. I am sure you can make the necessary modifications by adding lap siding and other residential features. The company is also producing manufactured homes, including some two-story models. If you�re after a quality built home with all the amenities of a stick-built home then Silvercrest could be the answer. We found their biggest competitors were stick-built homes. The company competes against Palm Harbor, Karsten and Guerdon Homes. Skyline Corporation Post Office Box 743 Elkhart, Indiana 46515 Phone: 800-348-7469 www.skylinehomes.com/ Locations: Available in most states. Company Background: Since 1951, Skyline has offered a wide range of manufactured and manufactured homes with price ranges to fit most budgets. They pride themselves on superior customer service and have been a leader in the manufactured housing industry for many years. Skyline produces homes for every buyer. Whether your need is for a single-section starter home or a 2,700 square foot multi-sectional full drywall home, or anything in between. Skyline is large company with 18 manufactured housing plants scattered

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throughout the United States. They are a privately held company not traded on Wall Street and I am told they have very deep pockets. Comments: Skyline has a good reputation in the industry and people I talk to indicate they treat their employees very well. Skyline is going after the entry-level to mid-range buyers regarding their HUD-code homes. The company is also producing manufactured homes, which appeals more to mid-range and upper-end buyers. Their manufactured homes are nice looking and affordable, many that I have talked with are impressed with the quality and craftsmanship of the product. I place the company in the, �Above Average Category.� Skyline has many different floor plans to choose from and they are willing to work with you if you want to make some modifications. I like Skyline�s website and if you get a chance take a look at their factory tour page, it is really good. Overall Skyline is a good company with a solid financial background, which means they will be around for many years to come. Solitaire Homes Inc. 7605 Nickles Rd Duncan, OK 73533 Phone: 580-252-6060 www.solitairehomes.com States Sold In: OK, TX, AR, NM, KS Company Background: While other companies chose to catch the industry-boom wave in the early 90�s, Solitaire kept their focus close to home and within an area where they had seen success already. By the late 90�s they had 5 plants in operation. Thus, when the industry took a downturn, they were able to wait it out with little trouble. (Two plants were closed and they reeled in some of their larger models.) At last count they had 27 dealers in their network, many with their own homeowners insurance packages available (through a third party), and have created Solitaire Financial Services, offering in-house financing. Comments: In business, there are those looking to do as much as they can to grow their business as big and as fast as possible. Then there are those, like Solitaire, who keep their focus on what they do best. Solitaire builds a nice, mid-range home, not too big not to small, appealing to the retiree or second time buyer. They have increased their productivity by adding dealers to their network and creating the ability for in-house financing. The result of all this is a good, solid, affordable home.

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Southern Energy Homes 144 Corporate Way Addison, AL 35540 Phone: 256-747-8589 www.sehomes.com/ Locations: Southeastern and South Central United States. Comments: Southern Energy Homes, Inc. was founded in 1982 in Addison, Alabama. They were immediately recognized for outstanding value and innovative home designs. Their �concept of letting the customer design their own home was an instant success.� They follow these core values: value, innovation, and customization as a foundation to grow and succeed. Today, SEhomes, Inc. operates seven home production divisions and has built over 100,000 homes. Southern Energy Homes is one of the industry's fastest growing and stable companies. They are also one of the most versatile. With primary interest in the Southeastern and South Central United States, they currently operate six manufacturing facilities that produce homes sold in approximately twenty states. Southern Energy Homes is currently marketed under five brand names and sold by approximately three hundred independent retailers. Southern Energy Homes are designed as primary residences ready for immediate occupancy and cater to all price segments of the market. Comments: Based on my research, I am somewhat pleased with two of their series called, �Southern Energy Homes� and �Southern Lifestyle Homes Inc.� These two series fall into the, �Above Average Category.� They will allow customers to customize a home and I like the fact they use 2�x8� floor joists and build 90� side walls. On average you will find the cost per square foot to be around $35.00 to $55.00. The company is appealing to the entry-level and mid-range buyers. The company�s website does a good job getting the information out. They list their series and the standard features available in each series. This is a mid-size company that takes pride in making sure their customers are taken care of.

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Sunshine Homes Inc. 100 Sunshine P.O Box 507 Red Bay, AL 35582 Phone: 256-356-4427 www.sunshinehomes-inc.com States Sold In: FL, MS, LA, KY, OK, TX, AR, MO, GA, IA, KS, NC, SC, IL, AL

Company Background: Fred Bostick made an interesting business decision in 1971. He was disturbed by the closing of a Commodore owned plant in his neighborhood, so he bought it hoping to save jobs and make money when his current business was in its slower season. Why is this interesting? His existing business was pet food! The company was successful but would see a bit of a slump in the summer season; just when manufactured homes were selling best. This way there was profit being made one

place or the other all year long. As a gimmick, a bag of dog food was placed under the kitchen sink of each new home, a tradition that continues to this day. Still a small, efficient company, Fred�s son, John, is now at the helm. They deliver with their own trucks and even have their own warranty crew that boasts a 30 day response time for repairs. Comments: An �unblemished� reputation is the reward this company has earned by making customer satisfaction paramount. Though they are an entry level builder, they receive above average ratings based greatly on their treatment of the consumer. They have a high customer referral rate and outstanding warranty service. Homes are solidly built and quality control is excellent. Superior Homes LLC 715 21st St Watertown, SD 57201 Phone: 866-773-5055 www.superiorhomesllc.com States Sold In: FL, MS, LA, KY, OK, TX, AR, MO Company Background: Superior Homes, with over 45 years of building experience, has helped over 40,000 families make their housing dreams come true. Superior Homes utilizes a multi-million dollar building facility, skilled job specific craftsmen, precision tools, and the newest building technologies to offer a better way of building a new home compared to conventional builders. A small builder, active since the 40�s, superior has worn more than one name tag, most recently, Medallion. In 2003, the family-owned company was purchased by a group of investors who chose to keep the Medallion brand name and began expanding the manufactured home production (now responsible for 60% of output). Medallion is well-reputed for its diverse customization options. From their website: �For over 45 years, Superior Homes has been building products of the highest quality with superb customer satisfaction. With a combination of the highest quality materials,

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outstanding employees and a proven track record, we firmly believe there is no better home than a Superior Home.� Comments: In a region that sees regularly harsh winters, solid construction is a must. According to a company spokesperson they use the latest technology available in the industry to build a high-end home. The company does build custom cabinets in any style you can imagine, but they specialize in European frameless cabinetry. With its frameless front and concealed hinge system, this makes best use of all the space in each cabinet without wasting materials. According to their website, �all support materials utilize #2 lumber with trusses, exterior walls, interior walls at 16" spacing. 2"x6" exterior with double OSB sheathing are standard in a Superior Home. This feature provides over 50% more lumber in the walls and a much quieter home over ordinary homes with 2"x4" walls.� The company produces a full line of off-frame manufactured homes with quality and craftsmanship that is evident when looking at their homes. Titan Homes (Champion Enterprises) P.O Box 177 951 Rt. 12 South Sangerfield, NY 13455 Phone: 800-937-3911 6440 US Hwy. 43 Guin, AL 35563 205-468-3191 www.titanhomesny.com/ States Sold In: NY, PA, ME, NH, VT, MA, CT, AL, MS, LA, GA, TN, TX, KY, SC, MO, AR, FL, OK Company Background: Titan was founded in New York in 1973 with one plant that mainly supplied MH communities. In the 80�s, Champion purchased Titan and its profitability continued. In 1999, the plant was lost in a fire and Champion built Titan a new state-of-the-art facility. Just recently, in 2005, Champion began producing entry-level homes under the Titan name at its Advantage/Gateway plant in Alabama. Comments: Nothing stands out about Titan but it is backed by the Champion Enterprises title.

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Valley Quality Homes 1830 South First St. Yakima, WA 98903 Phone: 800-704-2812 www.valleyqualityhomes.com/ States Sold In: WA, ID, OR, MT

Company Background: Valley Quality Homes was started by Art Burger who left the furniture business and went to work as a salesperson selling manufactured homes. After a few years Art made enough money to purchase the sales center he was working at. Art had a vision to manufacture his own homes that were free of building flaws that created service

issues day after day. So, the story goes, he bought an abandoned Fleetwood factory in Sunnyside, Washington and through hard work, sweat and tears started producing Valley Quality Homes. Art was never pleased with some of the construction methods used in the HUD-code manufactured housing industry and wanted to produce a HUD-code product with stick-built features that exceeded HUD standards. Because of Art�s foresight he set the standard for the industry in Washington. Many were baffled at how this small company could out-produce the national brands. Valley Quality Homes and Valley Manufactured Housing is a family owned business serving customers throughout Washington, Eastern Oregon and Idaho and Northwestern Montana for over 25 years. They have four Central Washington locations. They have sold more multi-wide homes than any other dealer in the state of Washington for 12 consecutive years. Comments: I have noticed that smaller companies like Valley usually exceed industry standards and build higher-end products, compared to the national brands at competitive prices. I purchased a Valley home in 1998 so my opinion may be somewhat biased but I believe Valley has one of the best-built manufactured homes in the Washington State. All Valley homes come standard with solid oak cabinets, 2�x8� floor joists, fully taped and textured interiors and Super Good Cents insulation packages. Valley homes have 12� overhangs, 2�x6� exterior walls, 2�x4� interior walls, 40lb roof loads and copper plumbing throughout. Valley in the past has had some problems with labor Unions but I believe this has been resolved. Valley homes are somewhat plain looking and don�t have that residential appeal that other manufacturers have. Most of Valley�s floor plans don�t have garage ready options and you can only get a 3/12 roof pitch in a three-sectioned home. While most manufacturers in the country are offering 4/12 and 6/12 roof pitches. Valley needs to add some residential features to their homes if they want to stay competitive in this ever-changing industry. Valley homes cost $40 and $60 a square foot and they are appealing to the mid-range and upper-end buyers. If you live in the Washington State you should take some time and visit a Valley sales center. A great company overall with stick-built type construction at reasonable pricing.

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Waverlee Homes 2039 Bexar Ave East, Bedford Industrial Park P.O Box 1887 Hamilton, AL 35570 Phone: 205-921-1887 www.waverleehomesinc.com States Sold In: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, MO, OK, TN, TX, Company Background: Steve Logan and several other investors joined with Liberty Homes in 1994 to create Waverlee (named for a 19th century plantation), aiming at the single section, entry-level market which is quite full in the SE region. In 1996, they moved into sectionals (building a new plant that was later closed due to industry downturn). Double-section homes still account for the majority of Waverlee production. Waverlee Homes, Inc. is one of the nation's leaders in the manufactured housing industry. Waverlee manufactured homes are built following rigid federal and state building codes; strictly enforced by the Department of HUD and/or applicable state agencies. All Waverlee homes are constructed of many of the same materials as - yet enjoy many advantages over - site built homes. �Total Quality Management (TQM) at Waverlee Homes is a strategizing process of listening and sharing of information, developing and implementing processes all designed to improve overall home quality. Waverlee Homes collectively considers advice from our dealers, our suppliers, our employees and our customers to provide better, higher quality homes; manufactured using the finest materials and most modern construction techniques for all of our customers.� Comments: The SE market for entry-level homes is saturated. It can be tough to stand out. Waverlee has gotten a good name primarily by providing excellent service after the sale; coming to the site to do finish work, conducting a walk-through with the homeowner, and drastically reducing service costs during the one-year warranty period. Add in Liberty�s in-house financing from TriCom Mortgage, and Waverlee is worth a good look. Aside from having competitive price points in a very full market, Waverlee stands out by offering contemporary interior options, excellent customer service before an after sales, and decent construction.

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Wick Building Systems, Inc. 2301 East Fourth St. Marshfield, WI, 54449-0530 Phone: 715-387-2551 www.wickmarshfield.com/ States Sold In: MT, WY, SD, NE, MN, IA, MO, WI, IL, MI Company Background: In 1960, Wick Building Systems, Inc. entered the homebuilding industry by offering HUD-code manufactured homes. In 1988, off-frame manufactured homes were added. All homes are marketed through a network of authorized independent builders. Nearly 154,000 manufactured and manufactured homes have been built for families throughout the United States. Wick manufactured homes are sold under the ®Marshfield Park Ridge, ®Artcraft Ambassador, and ®Rollohome Executive trademark names. Like all other conventional homes, Wick manufactured homes are built to the local and state codes where the home is to be built. Comments: Wick Building Systems has over 250 floor plans from; spacious two, three, or four-bedroom designs featuring stylish kitchen/dining room combinations and open concept living areas. Wick does allow customers to change things around and their designers will be glad to alter any plan to fit your needs. The company falls into the, �Premium Category.� The cost of a Wick Home on average is $45 to $65 per square foot. Wick homes have a residential appeal and the company is targeting mid-range to upper-end buyers. Overall, Wick homes are a good choice and with some structural upgrades you will have a very nice home.

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Chapter 3

Rating Parameters This is not a model specific comparison where we focus on individual brands or series of homes and put forth our recommendations. Instead I wanted to rate manufactured home companies based on overall performance in the areas of; residential appeal, quality of construction, customer�s satisfaction and resale value. Many considering a manufactured home are overwhelmed with all the choices being offered today. This rating guide will help you learn who�s who in the industry and how companies compare to one another. I believe understanding how manufacturers compare to each other is the first step in deciding which model or brand to purchase. Below is a SAMPLE RATING CHART. This is a wonderful tool allowing homebuyers to quickly determine where each manufacturer rates within each classification, as explained on the following page.

Sample Rating Chart

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(R) = Ranking: The first category at top of the chart is (R). Each manufacturer will be placed according to total points received within each classification. Regarding class please see description below. (Class) = Classification: The second category is called, Class. This category is broken up into three separate parts:

(P) Premium (AA) Above Average (E) Economy

Most homebuyers have a budget or set amount they are willing to pay for a home based on perceived value. A homebuyer will typically fall into one of the three categories listed above. Whether you�re an upper-end, mid-range or an entry-level buyer this guide will help you focus on producers that meet your expectations and comfort level. In the sample rating chart on the previous page, Company A is number one in the Premium category. Company B and C are also in the number one position based on their classification. It would not be fair to compare Company A to Company C because both are appealing to different types of homebuyers with construction differences and prices. (P) = Premium: Denotes that the home is well-constructed with a high standard of craftsmanship, utilizing quality materials. This type of home is priced accordingly and is considered top of the line or the best of the best. Manufacturers that fall into the premium category are appealing to upper-end buyers with quality and style being the most important. (AA) = Above Average: Denotes that the home is well-built, using quality materials, at a price below premium or custom homes. Manufacturers that fall into the above average category are appealing to mid-range buyers, price and quality both playing an important role. (E) = Economy: Denotes that the home is satisfactory regarding construction features with standard to below standard material being used. This type of home appeals to those on a tight budget. Manufacturers that fall into the economy category are appealing to entry-level buyers, price being the biggest factor. Manufacturer: This is the particular producer that builds homes. Location = The fourth category lists where the manufacturer is located. In the case of a large corporation, like Champion Homes for example, location is where the main corporate office is located. The company�s manufacturing facilities may be located in other states. (SC) = Strongest Category: The fifth category called, Strongest Category, refers to the company�s strongest focus. For example, this could mean the company distributed homes primarily to single-family homebuyers, this being their strongest category. Some producers primarily focus on commercial building projects. This only serves as a quick reference point and helps homebuyers understand each producer�s main focus in the housing industry. Price Range: The sixth category listed in the sample rating chart is called Price Range. In this category I try to give my readers a quick overview of how much homes cost on average. A manufacturer may offer a wide range of floor plans, styles and designs to choose

52

from. This category only serves as a quick reference and homebuyers should contact the manufacturer or their dealer network to secure accurate pricing for a particular model or brand.

Categories 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the rating chart comprise the ratings for each manufacturer. While there are many different approaches or criteria I could use to rate each company, I decided to focus on:

(RA) Residential appeal (C) Construction (CS) Customer satisfaction (RV) Resale value

Within each category a manufacturer receives a rating based on our research and data collected. Each criteria; RA, C, CS and RV has a possible 25 points, a 100 being a perfect score. (RA) = Residential Appeal: The industry has made some amazing progress in recent years. Today manufactured home builders have incorporated many residential features in their homes. We look at the overall look of each manufacturer and place a rating on appearance. (C) = Construction: Most, if not all, homebuyers are concerned with the quality of construction in the home they are considering. This is an important factor in the overall rating of each manufacturer. (CS) = Customer Satisfaction: We spoke with many home owners and listened to what they had to say. Their experience and insight was especially helpful regarding the area of customer satisfaction. We have spent hundreds of hours speaking with different individuals both in and outside of the industry. We have read numerous books and articles pertaining to the industry as well. We have also read a number of studies that have been conducted by universities and other nonprofit organizations, which have been helpful. (RV) = Resale Value: Many homebuyers we spoke with were concerned about Resale Value. There are many variables that can affect the resale value or how well your home appreciates over time. Obviously, a quality built home will appreciate in value at a much quicker pace compared to a poorly built home. Residential appeal or street appeal plays an important role, as does the area or neighborhood. Based on this information we tried to accurately rate each manufacturer regarding resale value. This is subjective of course but we feel our ratings are fair and balanced. Total Points: All four categories, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are totaled to determine ranking and position within each classification, (100 points being a perfect score).

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Chapter 4

West Region � Manufactured Ratings

California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington & Wyoming

The following pages of this chapter will feature a rating chart showing all of the manufacturers we have researched in the West Region of the United States. Please remember that we have not researched every manufacturer and it is our hope to include more manufacturers in future publications. To learn more about how we arrived at our ratings, please review chapter 3 of this book. It is our hope that the information contained in this chapter will help you make informed decisions regarding factory built housing with fair and balanced information that has been complied over a number of years.

R Class Manufacturer Location Strongest Category

Price R A C CS R V Total

1 P Magnolia Homes Inc

Nebraska 80% Manufactured

60K - 180K

25 25 25 24.5 99.5

2 P Fuqua Homes Missouri 90% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 250K

25 24.5 24.5 24.5 98.5

3 P Valley Quality Homes

Washington 90% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 150K

25 25 24 23.5 97.5

4 P Fuqua Homes Oregon 80% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 250K

24.5 24.5 24 23.5 96.5

5 P Silvercrest Homes California 90% HUD-Code Homes

65K - 200K

24.5 24 24 23.5 96

6 P Wick Building Systems

Wisconsin 70% Manufactured

35K - 175K

24 24 24 23.5 95.5

7 P Superior Homes South Dakota

60% Manufactured

60K - 150K

24 23.5 24 22.5 94

8 P Laurel Creek Homes

Arizona 100% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

23.5 23.5 23.5 22 92.5

9 P BonnaVilla Homes

Nebraska 80% Manufactured

50K - 125K

23 23 24 20 90

10 P Homebuilders Northwest

Oregon 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

23.5 23 22 20 88.5

11 P Hallmark Southwest Corp

California 100% HUD-Code Homes

75K - 150K

23 23 22 20 88

12 P Palm Harbor Homes

Texas 80% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 250K

23 22 22 20.5 87.5

13 P Patriot Homes Inc Indiana 75% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K

22.5 22.5 22 20 87

14 P Karsten Company California 75% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 190K

22.5 22.5 21 20 86

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1 AA Liberty Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

22.5 22 21.5 19.5 85.5

2 AA Schult/Marlette Homes Inc

Tennessee 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 135K

22.5 22 21 19.5 85

3 AA Skyline Corporation

Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 150K

22 22 21.5 19 84.5

4 AA Chariot Eagle Inc (S.W)

Arizona 75% Manufactured

75K - 150K

22 22 20.5 19 83.5

5 AA Chariot Eagle Inc Florida 75% HUD-Code Homes

75K - 150K

22 21 20.5 19 82.5

6 AA Nashua Homes Idaho 95% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

21 22 20 19 82

7 AA Cavco Industries Arizona 90% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 175K

21 21 20.5 19 81.5

8 AA Moduline International

Canada (BC)

80% Manufactured

60K - 150K

21 22 20.3 18 81.3

9 AA Golden West Homes

Tennessee 100% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 150K

20 21 20 20 81

10 AA Commander Homes

Indiana 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 125K

20.3 22 20 18 80.3

11 AA Champion Enterprises

Michigan 80% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 150K

20 20 20 19.8 79.8

12 AA Four Seasons Housing

Indiana 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 125K

20 20 19 20 79

13 AA Kit Homebuilders West

Idaho 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K

19 19.8 20 20 78.8

14 AA Hart Housing Group

Indiana 60% Manufactured

40K - 125K

20 18 20 19 77

15 AA Redman (Champion)

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 100K

19 19.8 19 19 76.8

1 E Fleetwood

Enterprises California 90% HUD-Code

Homes 20K - 135K

18.5 17 18 17.5 71

2 E Clayton Homes Tennessee 80% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K

18 17 18 17.5 70.5

3 E Redman Homes of Indiana

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 90K

17.5 16 16.5 16.5 66.5

4 E Highland Manufacturing

Minnesota 60% HUD-Code Homes

55K - 125K

17 16 16.5 16.5 66

5 E Oakwood Homes Tennessee 50% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

17 16 16 16.5 65.5

6 E Southern Energy Homes

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 135K

17 15.5 16 16.5 65

7 E Silver Creek Homes Inc

Texas 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 90K

16.5 15 15 15.5 62

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Chapter 5

Southwest Region � Manufactured Ratings

Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma & Texas

The following pages of this chapter will feature a rating chart showing all of the manufacturers we have researched in the Southwest Region of the United States. Please remember that we have not researched every manufacturer and it is our hope to include more manufacturers in future publications. To learn more about how we arrived at our ratings, please review chapter 3 of this book. It is our hope that the information contained in this chapter will help you make informed decisions regarding factory built housing with fair and balanced information that has been complied over a number of years.

R Class Manufacturer Location Strongest

Category Price Range

R A C CS R V Total

1 P Fuqua Homes Missouri 90% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 250K

25 24.5 24.5 24.5 98.5

2 P Silvercrest Homes

California 90% HUD-Code Homes

65K - 200K

24.5 24 24 23.5 96

3 P Laurel Creek Homes

Arizona 100% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

23.5 23.5 23.5 22 92.5

4 P Oak Creek Homes

Texas 75% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 135K

23.5 23.5 23.5 21 91.5

5 P BonnaVilla Homes

Nebraska 80% Manufactured

50K - 125K

23 23 24 20 90

6 P Hallmark Southwest Corp

California 100% HUD-Code Homes

75K - 150K

23 23 22 20 88

7 P Palm Harbor Homes

Texas 80% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 250K

23 22 22 20.5 87.5

8 P Patriot Homes Inc

Indiana 75% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K

22.5 22.5 22 20 87

9 P Karsten Company

California 75% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 190K

22.5 22.5 21 20 86

1 AA Liberty Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

22.5 22 21.5 19.5 85.5

2 AA Schult/Marlette Homes Inc

Tennessee 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 135K

22.5 22 21 19.5 85

3 AA Skyline Corporation

Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 150K

22 22 21.5 19 84.5

4 AA Fairmont Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 150K

22 22 21 19 84

5 AA Chariot Eagle Inc (S.W)

Arizona 75% Manufactured

75K - 150K

22 22 20.5 19 83.5

6 AA Chariot Eagle Inc

Florida 75% HUD-Code Homes

75K - 150K

22 21 20.5 19 82.5

7 AA Cavco Industries Arizona 90% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 175K

21 21 20.5 19 81.5

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8 AA Moduline International

Canada (BC)

80% Manufactured

60K - 150K

21 22 20.3 18 81.3

9 AA Golden West Homes

Tennessee 100% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 150K

20 21 20 20 81

10 AA Franklin Homes Inc

Alabama 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 180K

20 21.8 20 19 80.8

11 AA Champion Enterprises

Michigan 80% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 150K

20 20 20 19.8 79.8

12 AA Four Seasons Housing

Indiana 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 125K

20 20 19 20 79

13 AA Solitaire Homes Inc

Oklahoma 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 125K

20 19 20 19 78

14 AA Redman (Champion)

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 100K

19 19.8 19 19 76.8

15 AA Deer Valley Homes

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 135K

19 19 19 19 76

1 E Fleetwood Enterprises

California 90% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 135K

18.5 17 18 17.5 71

2 E Clayton Homes Tennessee 80% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K

18 17 18 17.5 70.5

3 E Sunshine Homes Inc

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

33K - 125K

18 17 17.5 17 69.5

4 E Waverlee Homes

Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

55K - 85K

18 17 17 17 69

5 E Cavalier Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 145K

17.5 17 17 17 68.5

6 E Dutch Housing Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

17.5 16.5 16.5 17 67.5

7 E Oakwood Homes

Tennessee 50% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

17 16 16 16.5 65.5

8 E Southern Energy Homes

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 135K

17 15.5 16 16.5 65

9 E Titan Homes Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 75K

17 15.5 16 16 64.5

10 E Advantage Homes

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 125K

17 15.5 16 15.5 64

11 E Indies Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

16.5 15.5 15.5 15.5 63

12 E Silver Creek Homes Inc

Texas 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 90K

16.5 15 15 15.5 62

13 E River Birch Homes Inc

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 80K

16.5 15 15 14.5 61

14 E Cappaert Homes

Mississippi 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K

16 15 15 14 60

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Chapter 6

Midwest Region � Manufactured Ratings

Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota & Wisconsin

The following pages of this chapter will feature a rating chart showing all of the manufacturers we have researched in the Midwest Region of the United States. Please remember that we have not researched every manufacturer and it is our hope to include more manufacturers in future publications. To learn more about how we arrived at our ratings, please review chapter 3 of this book. It is our hope that the information contained in this chapter will help you make informed decisions regarding factory built housing with fair and balanced information that has been complied over a number of years.

R Class Manufacturer Location Strongest Category

Price Range

R A C CS R V Total

1 P New Era Building Pennsylvania 80% Manufactured 100K - 300K

25 25 25 25 100

2 P Magnolia Homes Inc

Nebraska 80% Manufactured 60K - 180K 25 25 25 24.5 99.5

3 P Hi-Tech Housing Inc

Indiana 65% HUD-Code Homes

80K - 200K 25 25 24.5 24.5 99

4 P Fuqua Homes Missouri 90% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 250K 25 24.5 24.5 24.5 98.5

5 P Shamrock Homes Indiana 70% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 300K 24.5 24.5 24 24 97

6 P Wick Building Systems

Wisconsin 70% Manufactured 35K - 175K 24 24 24 23.5 95.5

7 P Superior Homes South Dakota 60% Manufactured 60K - 150K 24 23.5 24 22.5 94

8 P Laurel Creek Homes

Arizona 100% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K 23.5 23.5 23.5 22 92.5

9 P Commodore Corporation

Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 200K 23.5 23.5 23.5 21.5 92

10 P BonnaVilla Homes Nebraska 80% Manufactured 50K - 125K 23 23 24 20 90 11 P Palm Harbor

Homes Texas 80% HUD-Code

Homes 50K - 250K 23 22 22 20.5 87.5

12 P Patriot Homes Inc Indiana 75% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K 22.5 22.5 22 20 87

13 P Homark Company Inc

Minnesota 55% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 125K 23 22.5 21 20 86.5

14 P Karsten Company California 75% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 190K 22.5 22.5 21 20 86

1 AA Liberty Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code

Homes 45K - 150K 22.5 22 21.5 19.5 85.5

2 AA Schult/Marlette Tennessee 60% HUD-Code 40K - 135K 22.5 22 21 19.5 85

58

Homes Inc Homes 3 AA Skyline

Corporation Indiana 80% HUD-Code

Homes 25K - 150K 22 22 21.5 19 84.5

4 AA Fairmont Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 150K 22 22 21 19 84

5 AA Castle Homes of PA

Pennsylvania 60% Manufactured 45K - 150K 22 22 20 19 83

6 AA Franklin Homes Inc

Alabama 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 180K 20 21.8 20 19 80.8

7 AA Commander Homes

Indiana 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 125K 20.3 22 20 18 80.3

8 AA Champion Home Builders

Pennsylvania 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100K 20 20 20 20 80

9 AA Champion Enterprises

Michigan 80% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 150K 20 20 20 19.8 79.8

10 AA Four Seasons Housing

Indiana 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 125K 20 20 19 20 79

11 AA Solitaire Homes Inc

Oklahoma 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 125K 20 19 20 19 78

12 AA Hart Housing Group

Indiana 60% Manufactured 40K - 125K 20 18 20 19 77

13 AA Redman (Champion)

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 100K 19 19.8 19 19 76.8

14 AA Deer Valley Homes

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 135K 19 19 19 19 76

15 AA Holly Park Homes Indiana 65% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100K 19 19 19 18.5 75.5

1 E Fleetwood

Enterprises California 90% HUD-Code

Homes 20K - 135K 18.5 17 18 17.5 71

2 E Clayton Homes Tennessee 80% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K 18 17 18 17.5 70.5

3 E Sunshine Homes Inc

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

33K - 125K 18 17 17.5 17 69.5

4 E Waverlee Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

55K - 85K 18 17 17 17 69

5 E Cavalier Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 145K 17.5 17 17 17 68.5

6 E Manufactured Housing

Ohio 80% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 85K 17.5 16.5 17 17 68

7 E Dutch Housing Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K 17.5 16.5 16.5 17 67.5

8 E Fortune Homes Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K 17.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 67

9 E Redman Homes of Indiana

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 90K 17.5 16 16.5 16.5 66.5

10 E Highland Manufacturing

Minnesota 60% HUD-Code Homes

55K - 125K 17 16 16.5 16.5 66

11 E Oakwood Homes Tennessee 50% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K 17 16 16 16.5 65.5

12 E Southern Energy Homes

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 135K 17 15.5 16 16.5 65

13 E Titan Homes Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 75K 17 15.5 16 16 64.5

14 E Advantage Homes Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 125K 17 15.5 16 15.5 64

15 E Indies Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K 16.5 15.5 15.5 15.5 63

59

16 E Silver Creek Homes Inc

Texas 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 90K 16.5 15 15 15.5 62

17 E River Birch Homes Inc

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 80K 16.5 15 15 14.5 61

18 E Giles Industries Tennessee 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K 16 15 15 14.5 60.5

19 E Cappaert Homes Mississippi 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K 16 15 15 14 60

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Chapter 7

Southeast Region � Manufactured Ratings

Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

The following pages of this chapter will feature a rating chart showing all of the manufacturers we have researched in the Southeast Region of the United States. Please remember that we have not researched every manufacturer and it is our hope to include more manufacturers in future publications. To learn more about how we arrived at our ratings, please review chapter 3 of this book. It is our hope that the information contained in this chapter will help you make informed decisions regarding factory built housing with fair and balanced information that has been complied over a number of years.

R Class Manufacturer Location Strongest Category

Price Range

R A C CS R V Total

1 P New Era Building Pennsylvania 80% Manufactured 100K - 300K

25 25 25 25 100

2 P Magnolia Homes Inc

Nebraska 80% Manufactured 60K - 180K

25 25 25 24.5 99.5

3 P Hi-Tech Housing Inc

Indiana 65% HUD-Code Homes

80K - 200K

25 25 24.5 24.5 99

4 P Fuqua Homes Missouri 90% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 250K

25 24.5 24.5 24.5 98.5

5 P Commodore Corporation

Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 200K

23.5 23.5 23.5 21.5 92

6 P Oak Creek Homes

Texas 75% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 135K

23.5 23.5 23.5 21 91.5

7 P Jacobsen Homes Florida 95% HUD-Code Homes

65K -200K

23 23 23.5 20 89.5

8 P Pine Grove Homes

Pennsylvania 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

23 23.7 21 21 88.7

9 P Palm Harbor Homes

Texas 80% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 250K

23 22 22 20.5 87.5

10 P Patriot Homes Inc Indiana 75% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K

22.5 22.5 22 20 87

1 AA Liberty Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code

Homes 45K - 150K

22.5 22 21.5 19.5 85.5

2 AA Schult/Marlette Homes Inc

Tennessee 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 135K

22.5 22 21 19.5 85

3 AA Skyline Corporation

Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 150K

22 22 21.5 19 84.5

4 AA Fairmont Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 150K

22 22 21 19 84

5 AA Castle Homes of PA

Pennsylvania 60% Manufactured 45K - 150K

22 22 20 19 83

61

6 AA Chariot Eagle Inc Florida 75% HUD-Code Homes

75K - 150K

22 21 20.5 19 82.5

7 AA Franklin Homes Inc

Alabama 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 180K

20 21.8 20 19 80.8

8 AA Horton Industries Inc

Georgia 75% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 100K

21 21 20.5 18 80.5

9 AA Commander Homes

Indiana 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 125K

20.3 22 20 18 80.3

10 AA Champion Home Builders

Pennsylvania 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100K

20 20 20 20 80

11 AA Champion Enterprises

Michigan 80% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 150K

20 20 20 19.8 79.8

12 AA Homes of Merit Florida 90% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K

20 20.5 20 19 79.5

13 AA Four Seasons Housing

Indiana 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 125K

20 20 19 20 79

14 AA Solitaire Homes Inc

Oklahoma 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 125K

20 19 20 19 78

15 AA Adrian Homes Georgia 70% Manufactured 50K - 100K

20 19.5 20 18 77.5

16 AA Hart Housing Group

Indiana 60% Manufactured 40K - 125K

20 18 20 19 77

17 AA Redman (Champion)

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 100K

19 19.8 19 19 76.8

18 AA Deer Valley Homes

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

60K - 135K

19 19 19 19 76

19 AA Holly Park Homes Indiana 65% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100K

19 19 19 18.5 75.5

1 E Fleetwood Enterprises

California 90% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 135K

18.5 17 18 17.5 71

2 E Clayton Homes Tennessee 80% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K

18 17 18 17.5 70.5

3 E Destiny Industries Georgia 80% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 130K

18 17 18 17 70

4 E Sunshine Homes Inc

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

33K - 125K

18 17 17.5 17 69.5

5 E Waverlee Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

55K - 85K 18 17 17 17 69

6 E Cavalier Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 145K

17.5 17 17 17 68.5

7 E Manufactured Housing

Ohio 80% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 85K 17.5 16.5 17 17 68

8 E Dutch Housing Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

17.5 16.5 16.5 17 67.5

9 E Fortune Homes Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

17.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 67

10 E Redman Homes of Indiana

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 90K 17.5 16 16.5 16.5 66.5

11 E Oakwood Homes Tennessee 50% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

17 16 16 16.5 65.5

12 E Southern Energy Homes

Alabama 90% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 135K

17 15.5 16 16.5 65

13 E Titan Homes Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 75K 17 15.5 16 16 64.5

14 E Advantage Homes

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 125K

17 15.5 16 15.5 64

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15 E General MFG Housing

Georgia Factory Closed in 2007

25K - 90K 17 15.5 15.5 15.5 63.5

16 E Indies Homes Alabama 95% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

16.5 15.5 15.5 15.5 63

17 E Scotbilt Homes Inc

Georgia 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 80K 16.5 15 15.5 15.5 62.5

18 E Silver Creek Homes Inc

Texas 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 90K 16.5 15 15 15.5 62

19 E Nobility Homes Inc

Florida 100% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100 16.5 15 15 15 61.5

20 E River Birch Homes Inc

Alabama 100% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 80K 16.5 15 15 14.5 61

21 E Giles Industries Tennessee 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K 16 15 15 14.5 60.5

22 E Cappaert Homes Mississippi 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K 16 15 15 14 60

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Chapter 8

Northeast Region � Manufactured Ratings

Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont

The following pages of this chapter will feature a rating chart showing all of the manufacturers we have researched in the Northeast Region of the United States. Please remember that we have not researched every manufacturer and it is our hope to include more manufacturers in future publications. To learn more about how we arrived at our ratings, please review chapter 3 of this book. It is our hope that the information contained in this chapter will help you make informed decisions regarding factory built housing with fair and balanced information that has been complied over a number of years.

R Class Manufacturer Location Strongest Category

Price Range

R A C CS R V Total

1 P New Era Building Pennsylvania 80% Manufactured 100K - 300K

25 25 25 25 100

2 P Hi-Tech Housing Inc

Indiana 65% HUD-Code Homes

80K - 200K

25 25 24.5 24.5 99

3 P Shamrock Homes Indiana 70% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 300K

24.5 24.5 24 24 97

4 P Burlington Homes Maine 50% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 100K

24 23.5 24 23 94.5

5 P Commodore Corporation

Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 200K

23.5 23.5 23.5 21.5 92

6 P Pine Grove Homes Pennsylvania 100% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

23 23.7 21 21 88.7

7 P Palm Harbor Homes

Texas 80% HUD-Code Homes

50K - 250K

23 22 22 20.5 87.5

8 P Patriot Homes Inc Indiana 75% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 150K

22.5 22.5 22 20 87

1 AA Liberty Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

45K - 150K

22.5 22 21.5 19.5 85.5

2 AA Schult/Marlette Homes

Tennessee 60% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 135K

22.5 22 21 19.5 85

3 AA Skyline Corporation Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 150K

22 22 21.5 19 84.5

4 AA Fairmont Homes Indiana 50% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 150K

22 22 21 19 84

5 AA Castle Homes of PA

Pennsylvania 60% Manufactured 45K - 150K

22 22 20 19 83

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6 AA Champion Home Builders

Pennsylvania 80% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 100K

20 20 20 20 80

7 AA Champion Enterprises

Michigan 80% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 150K

20 20 20 19.8 79.8

8 AA Four Seasons Housing

Indiana 100% HUD-Code Homes

35K - 125K

20 20 19 20 79

9 AA Hart Housing Group

Indiana 60% Manufactured 40K - 125K

20 18 20 19 77

10 AA Redman (Champion)

Indiana 70% HUD- Code Homes

30K - 100K

19 19.8 19 19 76.8

11 AA Titan Homes New York 70% HUD- Code Homes

35K - 100K

19 19 19 18 75

1 E Fleetwood Enterprises

California 90% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 135K

18.5 17 18 17.5 71

2 E Clayton Homes Tennessee 80% HUD-Code Homes

30K - 100K

18 17 18 17.5 70.5

3 E Manufactured Housing

Ohio 80% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 85K

17.5 16.5 17 17 68

4 E Dutch Housing Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

17.5 16.5 16.5 17 67.5

5 E Fortune Homes Indiana 80% HUD-Code Homes

40K - 100K

17.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 67

6 E Oakwood Homes Tennessee 50% HUD-Code Homes

25K - 125K

17 16 16 16.5 65.5

7 E Giles Industries Tennessee 100% HUD-Code Homes

20K - 60K

16 15 15 14.5 60.5

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Bonus Offer

Published and distributed by Manufactured Homes Network 3660 Nicklaus Drive, Clarkston, WA 99403 Phone: (888) 770-2830 Fax: (866) 401-1084 Email: info@manufacturedhomesnetwork.com Website: www.manufacturedhomesnetwork.com Copyright © 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009 by Manufactured Homes Network All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from Manufactured Homes Network. Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher and author assume no responsibility for errors and omissions. The author and publisher disclaim any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this book.

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Chapter 1

Construction Techniques & Methods When shopping for a manufactured home, the majority of homebuyers are pre-occupied with floor plans, colors, furniture decorations or the big screen T.V., not structural integrity. Now, a floor plan is important but would you purchase a manufactured home for the floor plan and compromise the structural integrity? Don�t be fooled by appearances and miss what really matters; �structural integrity.� This manufactured home resource will point out the differences between a poorly constructed manufactured home and a quality built one. While conducting our research, we found that over 85% of homebuyers were concerned with the structural integrity of manufactured homes. While we believe most manufactured homes are over engineered in order to be transported to site, we wanted to address this concern. We have produced a construction chart that helps homebuyers understand the different structural components that make a well-built home. After extensive research and comparing hundreds of different manufactured home manufacturers and their specifications in North America, we have compiled a construction chart. The chart below has three separate categories, poor, average and premium. The construction chart by no means covers every aspect of the construction process but does hit on the main structural components of a manufactured home.

CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS f sss

FLOOR SYSTEM 2" x 6" floor joist 16� o.c.

2� x 8� or 2" x 10" floor joist 16� o.c.

2� x 12� or better - floor joist 16� o.c.

3�/8� to 1�/2� T&G or OSB floor decking

1�/2" to 5�/8� T&G or OSB floor decking

3�/8� or better T&G or OSB floor decking

Floors nailed only Floors screwed only Floors screwed and

glued

EXTERIOR WALLS 96" Height

2" x 4" studs @ 16" or 24� o.c. 2" x 6" studs @ 24" o.c. 2" x 6" studs @ 16" o.c.

1� x 4� single bottom & top plate

2� x 6� single bottom & top plate

2� x 6� single bottom & double top plate

R-19 fiberglass batt insulation

R-23 fiberglass batt insulation

R-23 or greater fiberglass batt insulation

None 3�/8� to 7/16" OSB sheathing

1/2" or better OSB sheathing

Walls less than 96� is considered entry-level housing

house wrap air inflation barrier

house wrap air inflation barrier

Poor Average Premium

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3/8 gypsum or sheetrock

1/2 gypsum or sheetrock

1/2 or 5/8 gypsum or sheetrock

INTERIOR WALLS 96"

Height 2" x 3" studs @ 16" o.c. 2" x 4" studs @ 16" o.c. 2" x 4" studs @ 16" o.c.

single top and bottom plate

single top and bottom plate

single top and bottom plate

3/8" gypsum wallboard 1/2" gypsum wallboard 1/2" gypsum wallboard

CEILING 3/8" fire code gypsum or sheetrock

1/2" fire code gypsum or sheetrock

5/8" fire code gypsum or sheetrock

CEILING JOIST 2" x 3" joist @ 16� or 24" o.c. 2" x 4" joist @ 24" o.c. 2" x 6" or 2� x 8� joist @

24" o.c.

ROOF SYSTEM Engineered roof trusses Engineered roof trusses Engineered roof trusses

3/12" pitch, 24" o.c. 4/12 to 5/12" pitch, 24" o.c.

6/12" or steeper pitch, 24" o.c.

8" eave overhang 12" eave overhang 24" eave overhang 3" x 8� OSB sheathing 7/16" OSB sheathing 1� x 2�" OSB sheathing

R-19 insulation R-28 or less insulation R-38 or greater insulation

ROOFING 25 yr shingles 30 yr architect dimension design over 15 lb. underlay

40 yr high definition shingles over 15 lb. underlay

No ice shield 1st 60" up eave to be ice shield

1st 72" up eave to be ice shield

None ridge/soffit vent, drip edge to match fascia material

ridge/soffit vent, drip edge to match fascia material

60 MPH wind rating with 20lb. snow load

80 MPH wind rating with 30 lb. snow load

90 MPH wind rating with 40 lb. snow load or greater

SIDING vinyl or wood siding 15 year warranty

vinyl or wood siding 20 year warranty

Vinyl, wood, brick or rock siding 30 year warranty or better

WINDOWS aluminum windows vinyl windows residential size

vinyl or wood windows residential size

meets egress code, insulated Low-E glass

meets egress code, insulated Low-E glass

none

trimmed inside w/jamb & casing to match int. trim

trimmed inside w/jamb & casing to match int. trim

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INTERIOR TRIM particle board veneer finish

solid wood painted base, casing jambs

solid wood with quality stain base, casing & jambs

INTERIOR FINISH

walls & ceiling taped, mudded, sanded, textured

walls & ceiling taped, mudded, sanded, textured

walls & ceiling taped, mudded, sanded, textured

painted white (knockdown finish)

painted white (knockdown finish)

Custom paint colors smooth wall

none wall corners are round wall corners are round

CABINETRY Particle board veneer finish

particle board frames with solid wood door fronts

Custom cabinets solid wood frames and fronts

square veneer recessed panel in med.

roll out trays in most base cabinets

roll out trays in most base cabinets with metal hardware

lazy Susan�s in most kitchens

lazy Susan�s in most kitchens

vanity cabinets with drawers in most bathrooms

vanity cabinets with drawers in most bathrooms

crown molding on top of wall cabinets

COUNTERTOP plastic laminate tops plastic laminates or tile tile, granite, marble or slate (custom)

FIXTURES Kitchen SS double bowl sink - 6" deep; faucet with sprayer

porcelain dbl bowl sink-8" deep, faucet w/sprayer

porcelain or granite deposit dbl bowl sink-8" to 10� deep, faucet w/sprayer-nickel

Range hood ductless microwave range hood

dishwasher dishwasher, garbage disposal

BATHROOM particle board veneer finish

particle board frames with solid wood door fronts

Custom cabinets solid wood frames and fronts

plastic laminate tops plastic laminates or tile tile, marble or slate (custom)

fiberglass two- piece tub/shower w/door

fiberglass 1 piece tub/shower w/door

fiberglass 1 piece tub/shower w/door

60� garden and soaking tubs per plan

72� or longer garden and soaking tubs per plan

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none paper and towel holder in each bath

paper and towel holder in each bath

CARPETS 25 ounces of yarn per sq. yard or less - carpets

30 ounces of yarn per sq. yard - carpets

over 35 ounces of yarn per sq. yard - carpets

LIGHT FIXTURES white fixtures provided in each room

optional finishes for interior lights for all rooms

optional finishes for interior lights for all rooms

optional exterior porch light exterior porch light fluorescent light in kitchen can lighting can or recessed lighting

optional optional wire & brace for ceiling fans in bedrooms, DR & nook

ELECTRICAL 100 amp panel with breakers, GFI per code

200 amp panel with breakers, GFI per code

200 amp panel with breakers, GFI per code

copper wiring minimum 14/15 WG

copper wiring minimum 12/20 WG

copper wiring minimum 12/20 WG

doorbell option doorbell at front entry; smoke detectors per code

doorbell at front entry; smoke detectors per code

wire for electric range; wire for dryer if on main floor

wire for electric range; wire for dryer if on main floor

wire for electric range; wire for dryer if on main floor

2 each - cable & phone jacks

5 or more - cable & phone jacks

PLUMBING plastic or PVC lines copper water lines type M; PVC drain, vent & waste

copper water lines type M; PVC drain, vent & waste

shut-off option for all fixtures shutoffs at all fixtures

plumb for washer if on main floor

plumb for washer if on main floor

plumb for washer if on main floor

A quality manufactured home will always have 2�x6� exterior studs, 16� O.C. (on center), with a triple-header or solid header above all exterior windows and doors. This is a big clue when shopping for a manufactured home. When you go shopping ask your dealer which type of header is used in their homes. This will answer two important questions. First, is your dealer knowledgeable about the product he or she is selling? Second, is the home you�re looking at built well?

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Window

Double-Header Design

Window

Triple-Header Design

Both designs are good but the triple-header or solid header is the best If you like a particular model and the headers above the windows or doors are double-headers, ask if you can upgrade to a triple-header or a solid header. The cost associated with this type of upgrade is minimal and should be considered. Some manufacturers in milder climates only use 2�x4� lumber for exterior walls. We recommend upgrading to 2�x6� lumber for exterior walls. By choosing 2�x6� exterior walls, you are adding an extra 35% to the overall structural integrity of your home. That�s a big number and it really does make a difference. The other reason 2�x6� exterior walls are important is that they will allow you to increase the insulation factor. Now, you may be asking yourself why you would do that, especially if you live in Florida, Texas or Arizona. The answer is simple: more insulation means better R-factors, which means lower cooling costs in the summer months. Another big clue to look for when shopping for a manufactured home is if the home comes standard with ½" sheetrock or gypsum board. (Gypsum board and sheetrock all refer to the same product. In the Northwest we call it sheetrock and on the East Coast they refer to it as gypsum board.) Don't settle for 3/8" thick sheetrock, this is a poor substitute and damages easily. Half-inch sheetrock on the walls is standard and 5/8" on the ceiling is recommended. Suggestion: Your local power company may offer incentives or rebates regarding insulation packages. Ask your dealer about available energy saving programs. By choosing an optional energy package you will save an average of 25% or more- something to consider.

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Take a factory tour

We would recommend visiting a manufactured home factory to see first-hand how they construct each home. Ask your dealer if factory tours are available in your area. When taking a tour, look to see what type of headers are over the windows and doors, (solid or triple headers preferably). How does the factory fasten the floor down? Do they use screws, nails and glue? What type of floor product are they using? You can learn a tremendous amount when visiting a factory. This publication only touches the tip of the iceberg

regarding structural integrity issues. The construction chart at the beginning of this resource should help you understand your options and what to look for when trying to select a particular home.

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Chapter 2

How to Choose a Reputable Dealer When shopping for a manufactured home you will probably be referred to a dealer. All new HUD-code manufactured homes must be purchased through a licensed dealer as dictated by the Federal Government. Dealer: When we use the term dealer, we are referring to a licensed company that has been approved by a manufactured home producer to sell and install their homes. Dealers will typically be responsible for all or most of your site improvements, permits and other aspects of the building process. When you select a dealer you are usually hiring a number of people: the dealer�s crew and the dealer�s subcontractors.. They will help manage your building project and schedule subcontractors at appropriate times. Some homeowners may want to act as the owner-builder. This allows the homebuyer to manage his or her building project. In doing so the homebuyer takes on more responsibility and risk. One advantage in buying a manufactured home is the home owner can perform their own site-improvements, thus saving themselves money. Suggestion: When dealing with a dealer, do your homework and check out references. We have spoken with many manufactured home buyers and many don�t seem to take this task seriously. It seems that homebuyers fall in love with their dealer and forget to check out their company. If we had to pick the most important phase in the buying process it would be this one. While all phases are important this one will make or break most buyers.

Talk with local lenders or the building department

If you decide to shop local lenders for a home loan, don�t forget to ask your loan officer which dealers they would recommend. We have found that many loan officers are in the know when it comes to dealers. Ask them which companies, in their opinion, provide the best product and customer service. Another good source for finding an honest opinion is your local �Building Department.� They typically will provide you with

helpful information about dealers and subcontractors in your area. In most states, your local building department will do an inspection of your home after it has been installed. If this is the case, find out the inspector�s name and try to get a phone number. We suggest contacting your local inspector and ask which manufactured home dealers he or she would recommend. We have found that most inspectors are very helpful if you contact them, and in most cases they do have their favorites. If you can get this inside information you�ll have a huge advantage when selecting a dealer.

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Family-owned companies have some benefits

Many companies are family-owned and operated. My research team and I have found that when the owner or owners are present and actively involved in the daily operations of the business � it�s a good sign. If I were dealing with a family-owned company I would want to meet the owner or owners and introduce myself. This way if I do experience any problems along the way I could go to the owner/owners in hopes of resolving any problems.

Do they belong to the Chamber of Commerce?

Another clue when shopping for a dealer is to find out if they belong to the local Chamber of Commerce. Companies that belong to organizations like the Chamber of Commerce usually have a good reputation for servicing their customers. Typically, they will do all they can to keep their reputation from becoming tarnished within the community. Companies that don�t have a good reputation and their customer service is average to poor at best usually don�t belong to their local Chamber of Commerce.

Buying factory-direct (Manufactured Homes) Can I purchase a manufactured home factory-direct? The answer is NO. You can only buy through a licensed dealer in the United States, it is the federal law. But with modular homes (off-frame), or UBC homes, panelized homes or log homes you can buy direct.

Asking for references - it does make a difference

Asking for references is very important and we would recommend calling three or four previous customers before you select a company. We would ask questions like; how were you treated overall? Did the dealer do everything they promised? Did you experience any major problems that are still unresolved? Would you recommend this dealer? If you don�t do anything else do this one thing. This one suggestion has helped tens of thousands of homebuyers over the years to select the right dealer.

Use the Internet to research a company

There are a number of good websites that provide excellent information when trying to determine if your dealer is honest and above board. Below are some good sites worth checking out:

1. Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org is a great resource for finding information about a dealer.

2. Check to see if there are any judgments, lawsuits, bankruptcies or liens against a

company. This information can be easily checked by using a company called KnowX.com at, http://www.knowx.com/. There may be a fee associated with requesting information. Click on the link, �Background Check� and type in the company of interest. The fees are around $9.95 to $24.95. If you have any doubts about a particular company this is money well spent in my opinion.

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3. Another excellent source of information is, �Homeowners Against Deficient

Dwellings� (HADD) at, http://www.hadd.com. Their web site contains useful information including a list of dealers that have had legal actions against them.

The hard-sell verses the soft-sell approach When selecting a dealer a good clue to watch for is - what type of sales approach is being used? Typically a, �Hard-Sell� approach will try to manipulate you into making a decision quickly without much information. Your dealer may ask for a deposit before you�re convinced this is the right home. The hard-sell approach is generally used when the product for sale is of poor quality, thus the reason for the manipulation. If you come into contact with this type of approach, politely tell your dealer you�re not going to make a decision today.

The, �Soft-Sell� approach is generally used when the product for sale is of better quality. A professional dealer will not try to manipulate you, but will earn your trust and respect by telling you everything you need to know in order to earn your business. The sad part is most homebuyers know when they are being manipulated but continue with the sale only to be disappointed later on. A professional company that has your best interest at heart will provide you with all the information you need to make the right decisions.

What do manufactured home factories look for in a dealer?

The manufactured housing industry is constantly on the lookout for new dealers to sell and install their homes. Below are some of the qualities that many manufactured home producers look for in a dealer:

• Financial stability and a strong reputation in their building community. The first two years for any business is usually the hardest and a dealer must have the financial resources to carry his company through these difficult times. You will need to weigh the pros and cons of using an inexperienced dealer. They may have many years of construction experience but are just starting out in the manufactured home industry. Make sure you get references of their work so you know what you are getting into. (I personally would not choose a dealer with no construction experience what so ever that is just getting started because of the risk factor involved.)

• Exclusive product design - Some manufacturers want dealers to only offer their

product in exchange for extensive training, support programs and technical help. A dealer who only represents one manufacturer generally has fast and reliable service. The downside is this dealer may be limited to design styles and floor plans. Many dealers in the industry do carry more than one product line. If you find a dealer that only offers one product line and the style and floor plans are what you�re looking for, that is an added bonus.

• Capital investment - Many manufacturers encourage dealers to invest in model

homes. The prevailing reality in the industry is that dealers can�t sell from the back of a pickup truck anymore and be effective. The investment in a model home can

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vary from $100,000 to more than $2,000,000 for multiple models depending on your market and any model program discounts offered by the manufacturer. While many manufacturers encourage this type of approach, which requires some serious capital, only a few dealers adopt this method of selling. I personally would rather deal with a dealer who went to the expense of establishing a sales center or dealership. It tells consumers that they are going to be there awhile because of their investment in the dealership. Please keep in mind that many dealers don�t operate this way but I personally would like to see more dealerships and sales centers become the norm in the industry.

• Customer appeal - Manufacturers are looking for a dealer who makes the process of

purchasing a home easy and comfortable. Any dealer that uses high-pressure sales tactics to get you to sign on the dotted line should be avoided. This method of selling is usually used when the product for sale is of poor quality or problems exist with service. If this happens to you find the nearest exit and run.

• Warranty - Look at the warranty offered by the dealer. Many states require dealers

to warranty their work for at least one year. Many dealers that provide quality service will typically warranty their work for 1 to 3 years and in some cases longer.

Asking the right questions

On the following page is a chart called, �Selecting A Builder� If you utilize this chart it will eliminate many of the problems associated with choosing a dealer. This chart will help you stay focused and ask the right questions. Don�t take the position that you are a good judge of character and that this will never happen to you. I receive hundreds of emails a year from homebuyers who are frustrated with their builder or dealer. As I talk with people and go down the list of questions on the chart, it�s inevitable that the person missed many of

the steps when choosing a dealer. If you follow these steps outlined in the following pages you will increase your odds of selecting the right company. In the first category, I recommend contacting the Better Business Bureau and requesting a free report about the company in question. If the report is negative or there are a number of claims against the company then you would enter zero in that space. Obviously you may want to stop right there and continue your search for another company. Be sure to use some common sense when filling out the chart. If, for example, the company you�re considering has only one complaint in the last five years, I would not hold that against them and would enter 50 points in the space. The objective is to ask the right questions before you enter into an agreement. This will help eliminate potential problems in the future. Your goal is to be above 350 points. If you fall below this number I would recommend looking for another builder or dealer.

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If you utilize this chart it will eliminate many of the problems associated with choosing a dealer. This chart will help you stay focused and ask the right questions.