When it comes to affordable housing, many people face a big decision: Should you buy a mobile home or build a small house? Both offer budget-friendly options compared to traditional homes, but they are not equal in terms of cost, convenience, and flexibility.
At Highway Homes, we help people in Shreveport, Louisiana and across the tri-state area of Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas find real solutions through mobile home ownership. Whether you are buying or selling, we offer a simple process with no commissions, no fees, and no pressure. If you want to sell your mobile home in any condition or explore buying options, we are ready to help.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes mobile homes and small houses different, and which one might be the better choice for your budget.
Upfront Costs
One of the biggest differences between mobile homes and small houses is the cost to get started.
A new mobile home can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 depending on size and features. Used mobile homes are often much cheaper. You can sometimes find a livable used mobile home for under $20,000.
In contrast, building even a small house can cost much more. Between land, permits, materials, labor, and utilities, a small stick-and-brick built home can easily cost $100,000 or more; even before you move in.
If you are working with a tight budget or want to move in quickly, a mobile home usually wins in terms of upfront affordability.
Time and Convenience
Buying a mobile home is often a faster and easier process. In many cases, you can find a used mobile home, sign the paperwork, and move in within a few days or weeks.
Building a house takes time. First, you need land. Then you have to hire a builder, get permits, and wait for the construction to finish. Weather delays and rising material costs can make the process longer and more expensive than expected.
If you need a place to live sooner rather than later, a mobile home offers a more convenient path.
Flexibility and Options
Mobile homes offer more flexibility than you might think. If your situation changes, you can sell your home quickly, sometimes in its current condition. Highway Homes, for instance, specializes in buying mobile homes in any condition, and we aim to make the process simple and stress-free.
With a small stick-and-brick built house, your options can be more limited. Selling a site-built home takes time, and if it needs repairs, you may need to invest more money before you can sell.
Long-Term Value
A small home may hold its value or even increase over time, depending on location and market conditions. Mobile homes, especially older ones, tend to lose value with age. However, the lower cost and flexibility can still make mobile homes a smart choice for many buyers, especially if long-term profit is not the main goal.
Essentially, if your goal is to make profit in the long term, get a new-ish mobile home or a stick-and-brick built house. However, if your priority is short-term optionality, then a mobile home is probably a better use of funds.
So, What’s the Right Choice?
If your focus at the moment is saving money and getting into a home quickly, a mobile home is often the better option. It costs less, takes less time, and gives you more flexibility if your plans change.
At Highway Homes, we buy and sell mobile homes across Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas. We make the process easy, whether you are looking to sell quickly or explore affordable housing options. There are no fees, no commissions, and no obligations.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you take the next step. We are here to help you move forward; fast, fair, and stress-free.
