Modular new home vs conventional

[Stefan Folkert]

Besides looking at existing properties I've been researching modular/prefab build.

What I found so far, is that they are quicker and cheaper to build compared to conventional. 

They also seem to be way more green!

can i compare the value of a finished home with that of the neighbour's conventional build? I find it hard to get data on appreciation and general "attitude " towards this. Just to clarify, i am not talking about mobile home.

Are there investors here with experience in building to rent or even 'flip' a modular build?

[Jody Sperling]

Stefan,

I don't have experience building, but the home I currently live in is a modular house. As its owner, there were elements of this house that always irritated me. A wall runs the length of the center because the house was driven onto a lot and set on a slab in two pieces then, essentially, glued together. The wall is load bearing so even though we wanted to tear it down to open up the central living space, we couldn't without an expensive beam being installed.

However, we recently bought a new home for ourselves, my family and I, and will be renting this property. I have spoken with countless contractors about various renovation projects, and none of them have suggested I take the wall down. I guess my point is, as a rental property, this house is a fantastic space. It's we'll-built, functional, and looks nice.

My house is one of 4 modulars on the block, and it appreciates, and is valued equally to all the other homes on the block.