Modular homes can cost less than other homes. The final cost estimate always depends on customization, the contractor, and other upgrades. A modular home is a great way to build the home of your dreams but it can become more expensive than other homes if there is no budget. The average cost to build a modular home depends on location, materials, and many other things. Here are some tips on building a modular home while keeping modular home costs in check.
Prefab vs. Modular Home
The terms prefab and modular are sometimes used interchangeably. Prefab is a term that describes a prefabricated building manufactured in a factory before it is assembled on the construction site. Modular structures are at least 70% completed in the factory before delivery to the construction site. All modular buildings are considered prefabs but not all prefabs are considered modular. It is helpful to keep this in mind when reviewing the costs of a prefab house versus the average cost of modular homes.
Modular Home Prices
A basic home structure depends on the floor plan selected. A base price will be available online for people to view but the final price depends on taxes, delivery, and set-up of the home. There are fees to bring in a crane, finishing work to the interior and exterior of the property, and other amenities. Some costs are optional while others are not. These vary depending on whether or not a person is developing on undeveloped land or pre-developed property.
Adding Up the Costs of Building a Module Home
Adding up the costs of building a modular home starts with understanding where the costs come from. A modular home must be anchored the first o a foundation. Starting from there, the costs go up:
- Foundation: decide on a basement or crawlspace. A basic poured basement costs up to $60,000 for a ranch home in some areas that is under 2,000 square feet. A basement provides additional storage. The costs will vary with the size of the home or extra living space added
- Block crawl space with access panel and insulation will cost up to $30,000 for the same amount of square footage as a basement
- HVAC systems including furnace, AC, air ducts, and gas lines will cost up to $20,000 for a ranch under 2,000 square feet. Costs vary depending on where a person lives and the contractor
- Garage spaces for 2 cars can cost around $50,000 to build. This includes poured floors, insulated walls, roof, and door
- Hookup for water or well can cost up to $15,000
- A driveway is typically $10-$12 per square foot for a 4” thick drive. This depends on poured concrete, gravel, or other types of driveways that determine the overall cost
Electrical, gas, and other costs should be factored in, as well. When running estimates, make sure to get all the numbers before starting and layout the budget. There should be some wiggle room for fluctuation of numbers since the building can almost always cost more, sometimes less, depending on the features.
Common Questions About Building a Modular Home
The average cost to build a house in Ohio depends on where the home is built, the materials used, and additional add-ons put into the home. Let’s look at some common questions people may have before considering modular home prices in Ohio.
What does an 800-square-foot modular home cost?
Modular construction costs approximately 5-25% less than traditional homes. Prices can go up to $60,000 for an 800-square-foot home. The cost of a modular house with more luxury and customization can cost as much as a regular home, up to $1 million in some cases.
How much does a 4-bedroom modular home cost?
The cost for a prefab home with 3 or more bedrooms can average out to around $170,000. Custom homes the same size cost half a million dollars. Luxury homes with more than four bedrooms can be just under a million dollars.
How much is it to build a prefab home with added square footage?
A 2000-square-foot modular home price will depend on amenities added on. Many people are spending around $340,000 on a 2,000 sq. ft semi-custom mod home with a 2-car garage.
How much do Pratt modular homes cost?
Costs vary but Pratt Homes can run anywhere from $70-$100 per square foot. Changes in cost estimates happen when a buyer wants to include higher-end finishes or change the interior. A 1-bed, 1-bath basic mod home is around $40,000 up to approximately $200,000 for a 4-bed, 3-bath home with just over 3,000 square feet.
How much does a modular garage cost?
A lot of variables go into the selection of a modular home garage but kits range anywhere from $2,000 to $30,000 with some portions already built on garages, but not always. This may only include roof, framing, and siding but not labor, foundation, or any utilities. Costs are approximate to the home size and location as well.
Final Costs of Building a Modular Home
The final costs are typically under $300,000. Modular homes are dependent on many factors but the same home would cost more than double pre-built. Don’t sacrifice quality or flexibility when looking at homes. To feel comfortable, meet with a builder who will work with you upfront and determine your needs and costs. Typically, it will be more affordable to go modular than it would build a traditional home.
