The lack of affordable housing has been a stark reality facing many Americans but an opportunity has presented itself in the form of factory-built housing (FBH). Rural America, where FBH accounts for 20% of housing stock, has particularly benefited from the lower costs, energy efficiency, and precision in design and construction that accompanies FBH. However, despite these benefits many potential homeowners or developers have incorrect or even negative views of FBH. A true understanding of FBH begins with busting those myths wide open and understanding how the world of FBH has changed since 1976, when the HUD Code defining manufactured housing was put into place.
This course will help housing and community development practitioners understand FBH – which includes manufactured, modular, and other factory-built options. Upon completion of this course learners will be able to define what FBH is and is not, how it can be an affordable option in rural America and beyond, various land options for siting homes, maintenance and resale, financing and purchase options, and how to market or talk to clients about FBH.
While the estimated length of this course is 3 hours, this self-guided course allows participants to learn at their own pace. Check-and-reflect questions and other exercises will help gauge comprehension and allow participants to obtain a certificate of completion.