Double-Wide
Definition
A Double-Wide refers to a type of manufactured home that comprises two single units joined together at the homesite. These homes are generally at least 20 feet wide and provide more living space compared to single-wide manufactured homes. They are constructed off-site in a factory setting and then transported to their final destination where they are assembled.
Examples
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Residential Use: Joanne purchased a double-wide manufactured home that is 24 feet wide and 60 feet long. It offers spacious living areas similar to a traditional site-built home, making it an appealing option for her family.
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Retirement Community: Many retirement communities for seniors are composed of double-wide manufactured homes due to their affordability, adequate space, and ease of maintenance compared to larger site-built homes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a double-wide different from a single-wide manufactured home?
- A double-wide manufactured home is made up of two sections joined together, providing more interior space. In contrast, a single-wide home is a single unit.
How do double-wide homes compare to site-built homes?
- Double-wide homes offer similar living space and amenities as many site-built homes, but they are usually more affordable and faster to construct since they are manufactured in factory settings.
Can double-wide homes be financed and mortgaged?
- Yes, double-wide homes can be financed and mortgaged, often similarly to site-built homes. However, the available financing options and terms may vary depending on the lender and the homeowner’s qualifications.
Are double-wide homes durable?
- Modern double-wide homes are constructed following stringent building codes and regulations, making them durable and well-constructed. Advances in building technology have greatly improved their lifespan and resilience.
Can I customize a double-wide home?
- Yes, double-wide homes can be customized depending on the manufacturer. Options may include different floor plans, exterior facades, and various interior finishes.
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Manufactured Home: A home constructed in a factory setting, transported to a site and assembled there. This term covers both single-wide and double-wide homes.
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Mobile Home: An older term for manufactured homes, generally those built before 1976 when the HUD Code was implemented.
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Site-Built Home: A home constructed entirely on the site where it will be permanently located. Unlike manufactured homes, site-built homes are built piece by piece at the final location.
Single-Wide Home: A type of manufactured home composed of a single unit, narrower and less spacious than double-wide homes.
Online Resources
- HUD.gov Manufactured Housing
- Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI)
- The National Housing Conference
- Building Systems Councils’ website
References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- The Mobile Home: A New Road to Housing, by William Herbert
- Manufactured Homes: A Comprehensive Guide, by Greg Retsinas
- Affordable Housing Through Manufactured Homes, by John Eberhardt
Real Estate Basics: Double-Wide Fundamentals Quiz
### What defines a double-wide home?
- [ ] A single unit with two stories
- [x] Two single units joined together
- [ ] Two houses built side by side
- [ ] A home wider than 30 feet
> **Explanation:** A double-wide home consists of two single units joined together at the homesite, defining its significantly larger size compared to a single unit.
### How wide is a typical double-wide home?
- [x] At least 20 feet wide
- [ ] At least 15 feet wide
- [ ] At least 30 feet wide
- [ ] At least 10 feet wide
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes are at least 20 feet wide, providing more living space compared to single-wide homes.
### Where are double-wide homes constructed?
- [ ] On the home site
- [x] In a factory
- [ ] At a local construction site
- [ ] On modular platforms
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes are constructed in a factory setting, where the two units are manufactured before being transported to the final site for assembly.
### Why might someone choose a double-wide home over a single-wide?
- [ ] It is less expensive
- [x] It provides more interior space
- [ ] It takes longer to build
- [ ] It's easier to transport
> **Explanation:** Individuals may choose double-wide homes because they offer more interior space compared to single-wide homes, making them more similar to traditional site-built homes.
### Can double-wide homes be customized?
- [x] Yes, customization options are available
- [ ] No, they come in fixed designs
- [ ] Only in appearance, not structural changes
- [ ] Only in interior decor
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes can usually be customized depending on the manufacturer, with options for different floor plans, exterior designs, and interior finishes.
### How are double-wide homes transported for final assembly?
- [ ] Assembled and then moved in one piece
- [x] As two separate single units joined at the destination
- [ ] In modular parts
- [ ] Piece by piece directly to the site
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes are transported as two separate single units and then joined together at their final destinations.
### What distinguishes a double-wide from a mobile home?
- [ ] Double-wide is manufactured but mobile is built on-site
- [ ] Double-wide homes have fixed locations
- [ ] Mobile homes predate manufactured home codes
- [x] Mobile homes are older; built before 1976 HUD Code
> **Explanation:** Mobile homes, generally those built before 1976, predate the current HUD code which improves building standards for manufactured homes, including double-wides.
### How durable are modern double-wide homes?
- [ ] Less durable than site-built homes
- [x] Very durable with advances in technology
- [ ] Designed for short-term use
- [ ] Only durable in certain climates
> **Explanation:** Modern double-wide homes adhere to stringent building codes and are constructed with improved technologies, making them durable.
### Are double-wide homes eligible for traditional financing?
- [x] Yes, similar to site-built homes
- [ ] Only through specialized lenders
- [ ] Not eligible for financing
- [ ] Only eligible for short-term loans
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes are often eligible for traditional financing and mortgaging, depending on the lender and the homeowner's qualifications.
### What is the primary benefit of choosing a double-wide home in a retirement community?
- [x] Affordability and adequate space
- [ ] High maintenance requirements
- [ ] Similar size to large mansions
- [ ] Requirement for frequent relocations
> **Explanation:** Double-wide homes are appealing in retirement communities due to their affordability and adequate living space relative to costly and larger site-built homes.
