20-Foot Wide Manufactured Homes: Are They Right For You?

Oct 29, 2025 by Admin 57 views

Hey guys! Are you thinking about buying a manufactured home? If so, you might be wondering about 20-foot wide manufactured homes. These homes, sometimes called double-wide manufactured homes, offer a great balance of space and affordability. In this article, we'll dive deep into what makes them tick, their pros and cons, and whether they might be the perfect fit for you and your family. Let's get started!

What Exactly Are 20-Foot Wide Manufactured Homes?

Okay, so what are we talking about when we say "20-foot wide manufactured home?" Simply put, it refers to the width of a section of the home. Manufactured homes are built in factories in sections and then transported to the building site where they're assembled. A 20-foot wide manufactured home usually consists of two sections, each about 10 feet wide, joined together. This design offers a more spacious living environment compared to single-wide homes, which are typically only 14 feet or less in width.

The beauty of this design is the flexibility it provides. You get a home that's wider, feels more like a traditional house, and offers better layout options. You'll find that these homes often feature open floor plans, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and plenty of room for a family to spread out. Plus, because they're built in a controlled factory setting, the construction process is often more efficient and cost-effective than building a traditional site-built home. This efficiency translates to savings for you, without compromising on quality or comfort. The materials used in these homes are often the same as those used in traditional construction, ensuring durability and longevity. So, if you're looking for an affordable yet spacious housing option, a 20-foot wide manufactured home might just be the answer.

The Perks: Why Choose a 20-Foot Wide Home?

So, why should you even consider a 20-foot wide manufactured home? There are lots of compelling reasons! Let's explore some of the major benefits:

More Space: This is the big one! Compared to single-wide homes, you get significantly more living space. This translates to larger living rooms, bigger kitchens, and more comfortable bedrooms. If you're coming from an apartment or a smaller home, the extra square footage can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life.
Better Floor Plans: The increased width allows for more diverse and functional floor plans. You'll find options with open-concept designs, split bedroom layouts (where the master suite is on one side of the home and the other bedrooms are on the other), and more customizable layouts to suit your needs.
Affordability: Manufactured homes, in general, are more affordable than site-built homes, and 20-foot wide models continue this trend. You get more square footage for your money, making it a budget-friendly option for families or individuals looking to maximize their purchasing power.
Faster Construction: Because these homes are built in a factory, the construction process is much faster than building a traditional home. This means you can move into your new home sooner, avoiding the lengthy delays often associated with site-built construction.
Quality Construction: Don't let the term "manufactured" fool you. Modern manufactured homes are built to strict codes and standards, ensuring quality and durability. The controlled factory environment also minimizes weather-related delays and ensures consistent construction quality.
Customization Options: Many manufacturers offer a range of customization options, allowing you to personalize your home to your specific tastes and needs. From choosing countertops and flooring to selecting appliances and paint colors, you can create a home that truly reflects your style.

Things to Consider: Potential Downsides

Of course, like any housing option, 20-foot wide manufactured homes also come with potential drawbacks that you should consider:

Land Costs: While the home itself might be affordable, you'll still need land to put it on. Land costs can vary significantly depending on location, so it's important to factor this into your overall budget. In some areas, land can be quite expensive, potentially offsetting some of the savings on the home itself.
Transportation Costs: Transporting a manufactured home from the factory to your building site can be expensive, especially if you're located far from the manufacturing facility. These costs include permits, escorts, and the actual transportation of the home. Be sure to get a clear estimate of these costs upfront.
Financing: Securing financing for a manufactured home can sometimes be more challenging than financing a traditional home. Some lenders may have stricter requirements or offer less favorable terms. It's important to shop around and compare different lenders to find the best financing option for your situation.
Zoning Restrictions: Some areas may have zoning restrictions that limit or prohibit manufactured homes. It's essential to check local zoning regulations before you start shopping for a manufactured home to ensure that you're allowed to place it on your desired property.
Depreciation: Traditionally, manufactured homes have depreciated in value faster than site-built homes. However, this trend is changing as manufactured homes become more popular and are built to higher standards. Still, it's something to keep in mind when considering the long-term investment potential.
Resale Value: Resale value can be a concern with manufactured homes, although it's improving. Factors like location, condition, and local market conditions can all impact resale value. Keeping your home in good condition and making smart upgrades can help improve its resale value.

Are They Right for You?

So, after weighing the pros and cons, how do you decide if a 20-foot wide manufactured home is right for you? Here are some questions to ask yourself:

What's Your Budget? Consider your overall budget, including the cost of the home, land, transportation, and any necessary site preparation.
What Are Your Space Needs? How much space do you need for your family and lifestyle? Do you need multiple bedrooms and bathrooms? Do you want a large living room or kitchen?
What's Your Preferred Location? Where do you want to live? Are there any zoning restrictions in your desired location that might impact your ability to place a manufactured home there?
What Are Your Financing Options? What financing options are available to you? Can you get a loan with favorable terms? It’s always advisable to get pre-approved before you start shopping, this will give you a clear understanding of your budget.
What Are Your Long-Term Goals? What are your long-term goals for homeownership? Are you planning to stay in the home for many years, or do you plan to move in the near future? Considering your long-term goals will help you assess the investment potential of a manufactured home.

By carefully considering these questions, you can make an informed decision about whether a 20-foot wide manufactured home is the right choice for you. These homes offer a compelling combination of affordability, space, and convenience, making them an attractive option for many homebuyers.

Making the Decision: Key Takeaways

Choosing a home is a huge decision, so let's recap the key takeaways about 20-foot wide manufactured homes:

They offer more space and better floor plans compared to single-wide homes.
They are generally more affordable than site-built homes.
Construction is faster, and quality is ensured through factory construction.
You need to consider land costs, transportation expenses, and financing options.
Check local zoning regulations before making a decision.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit a manufactured home dealer and tour some models. This will give you a firsthand look at the quality and features available. Talk to the sales representatives, ask questions, and get a feel for what it would be like to live in a manufactured home.

With careful research and planning, you can find a manufactured home that meets your needs and fits your budget. Good luck with your home-buying journey!