FAQ
What is an off-site built modular home?
Modular homes from Professional Homes are constructed in a climate-controlled environment using state-of-the-art engineering and assembly line techniques. Professional Homes uses the same brand name building materials and builds to the same building code requirements as any local “on-site builder.” State or independent third party inspectors carefully inspect each home we build. Modular homes are shipped to the building site, erected on the foundation by a qualified set crew and completed by Professional Homes' staff & subcontractors. Once completed, modular homes are indistinguishable from “on-site built” homes.
Why should I build my home with Professional Homes?
Protection from the Elements
Have you ever driven past a partially constructed, site-built home on a rainy day? Have you thought about what is happening to the wood and other materials as the water covers them? Warping, separation, saturation, mold and mildew are just a few of the risks that one might incur while building a home in a “traditional” manner. In contrast, all of our lumber is stored in the protective environment of a world-class manufacturing facility, alongside all of the other materials and components that will be used in the construction of your home.
Design
A team of highly qualified design engineers and computer aided drafting technicians generates all of Professional Homes' floor plan designs. Regardless of style - ranch, Cape Cod, or two-story - you can be assured that every aspect of your home has been meticulously reviewed from an engineering perspective. Professional Homes offers its customers a tremendous amount of flexibility in both design and scope.
Timeframe
In most cases, a modular home, as constructed by Professional Homes, can be built in about half of the time required to build a comparably sized and equipped site-built home. Streamlined production processes and protection from weather hindrances help to facilitate a quick production cycle. Further, preparations for electrical and mechanical systems combined with our professional and efficient management of site trades allows us to expeditiously complete your project.
One Stop Shopping
Building your new home with Professional Homes offers many unique advantages. We have all the options and amenities you’ll need to customize your home – inside and out! You'll be amazed when you see your color choices (floorings, cabinetry, countertops, etc.) coordinated and ready to review prior to ordering.
How are modular homes built?
Today's modular homes are models of efficiency and quality assurance. The process of building your new home starts with the design phase. Your new home is drawn up using state-of-the-art computers, which aids in the customizing of your new home and in producing drawings and materials lists. Once designed, the building process begins. This process involves modern factory assembly line techniques. Your home travels from station to station where all of the building trades are represented. Work is never delayed due to weather, sub-contractor no shows, or missing materials. The quality control process assures you that your home has been inspected for code compliance and workmanship. In-plant inspectors as well as independent third party inspection agencies inspect each home to make sure that your new home meets all the state and local codes.
Are modular homes, by Professional Homes, energy efficient?
Yes. Professional Homes (through our parent company - Ritz-Craft Corp.) is an ENERGY STAR® partner and committed to using energy efficient building methods and materials. Our homes are built standard with 2”x6” exterior walls and R-21 insulation, R-38 blown-in ceiling insulation, warm edge thermopane low-e glass windows and insulated exterior doors. Professional Homes also offers geothermal heating & cooling, and an optional florescent lighting package that meets the requirements of ENERGY STAR®.
I hear a lot about Green Building. Are modular homes "green?"
Yes, modular homes are by their very nature green. Green building is a practice of using sustainable materials and designs in new construction. Assembly in an enclosed indoor environment minimizes waste material at the factory and at the job site, lessens the environmental impact on the land and the community where the house is being delivered and allows for a tightly built structure to maximize energy efficiency - all of which are key components to green building standards.
Can I design my own floor plan?
Absolutely! Professional Homes has hundreds of customizable floor plans available, or you may bring in your own plan.
Do I have to hire my own contractors?
No. Professional Homes specializes in complete turn-key construction. We are happy to handle all aspects of the construction process, including excavation, foundation, well/septic, garage, porch, etc. We'll even secure your building permits for you!
Can I do some of the work myself?
It is possible to act as your own general contractor in order to reduce some of the labor costs associated with your new home. However, it is important to have the general knowledge and experience necessary in order for this to really save you any substantial amount of money. If you do have the expertise to do some of the work yourself, Professional Homes can design a package that fits your individual needs.
How do I finance a modular home?
Mortgage lenders treat modular homes the same as site-built homes and offer the same mortgage options. Modular homes are also treated the same as site-built homes when it comes to appraisals and insurance. In addition, modular homes appreciate in value at the same rate as comparable site built homes in your area.
You are welcome to obtain your own financing - Professional Homes will be happy to work with your financial institution. Also, Professional Homes can refer you to any number of local lenders that we have worked with in the past. In addition, we have supplied a free mortgage calculator so you may experiment with sample financial situations to see exactly how much you can afford.
Are Professional Homes modular homes covered by a warranty?
Yes. Every home from Professional Homes comes with a full, one-year limited warranty and a 10-year structural warranty. Professional Homes has a dedicated service department to provide professional service. In addition, many of the brand name components (such as appliances, major mechanicals, shingles, siding, etc.) used in your home are covered by separate manufacturer warranties.