• The terms “trailer” and “mobile home” apply to mobile dwellings built prior to June 15, 1976.
• Manufactured homes are not trailers. They are built in a factory and must meet or exceed the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, also known as the HUD Code.
• Manufactured homes are secured on a permanent, nonremovable steel frame and can be titled as real or personal property.
• Tiny homes are neither manufactured homes nor mobile homes. They are typically 100–400 square feet and must be built to DMV/Recreational Vehicle codes.

Manufactured homes feature modern, energy-efficient, high-quality design options and custom home features comparable to site-built homes. Floor plans range from basic to elaborate, with vaulted or tray ceilings, fully equipped kitchens, walk-in closets, luxurious bathrooms, covered porches, higher roof inclines, decks, and garages.

• Manufactured homes are built entirely in a factory under controlled conditions with state-of-the-art assembly line techniques.
• They are constructed with 20 to 30 percent more materials than site-built homes to withstand transport from the factory to the property.
• The construction process is quality controlled and inspected according to HUD standards for design, durability, fire resistance, plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and overall home quality.

The HUD code seal of approval ensures that a manufactured home meets regional standards for roof load, wind resistance, thermal efficiency, safety, and durability. HUD revised this building code in the early 1990s to improve wind resistance in areas prone to hurricane-force winds.

These standards were tested in Florida during the 2004 hurricane season. Not one manufactured home built and installed after 1994 was destroyed by hurricane-force winds. Proper installation and anchoring are key elements in how a manufactured home performs during severe weather.

You can install your manufactured home on vacant land that you own, lease land, or live in a manufactured housing community. Many communities offer security, amenities, neighbors, and a sense of community. Cities are also selecting manufactured homes for infill on vacant and blighted homesites.

Manufactured homes are made with the same standard building materials as site-built homes. These homes are more affordable because of efficiencies in the factory-building process, not because of inferior materials.

Like other assembly line operations, manufactured homes benefit from purchasing large quantities of materials, products, and appliances. Builders can negotiate savings on components and pass them directly to the homebuyer.