Buying empty land and a premade home?

[Ana P.]

Hello again everyone!

Not too long ago I asked about the obstacles of buying multifamily properties in an expensive area like the one I live in (Seattle). After looking around and getting a whole lot of discouragement, I have been suggested to look into this: buying empty land and a premade home. You know, one of those already made houses they bring and stack in your lot!

I have seen land listed at reasonable prices and seems possible to buy premade homes for something in between 100 - 300,000, depending. Aside from the cost of the land and the home, I really don't know how many more things I would have to pay for in addition: plumbing to connect the home to the city? Electric installation? Does any one have a more accurate idea?

Now, is that something you guys would advice for or advice against? And why?

Thank you in advance! It is wonderful to have this community with such knowledgeable members to ask!

[Jean Bolger]

You'll want to make a call to your local planning and development office. They can probably talk you through the process or direct you to their informational materials. They may or may not allow certain types of homes- you can't just plop any mobile home down on a residential lot. I know there are a lot of nice pre-built structures these day though, and the west coast seem to be embracing that idea more than some other areas.

If you are on a city lot you'll probably already have public water and sewer- but be sure to find out if they are already ON the property or just available to the property. In my locale a water tap can run 20k. There are a lot of other permitting, inspection and impact fees to consider as well. Hopefully, your planning dept will have a helpful person to talk through this in layman's term and they won't just send you an impenetrable PDF of code regulations.

good luck!