Legendary Homes Modular Homes Sales and Service: October 2014

Friday, October 31, 2014

Types of Modular Home Additions

Modular home additions come in two types. The most popular type is attached to the side of a modular home to create either a separate living unit, such as an in-law apartment, or additional rooms, such as a new kitchen, dining room, and great room. S...
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How Modular Home Additions Affects the Whole Floor Plan

What do you mean by modular home additions? Do they affect the modular home floor plan? A modular home addition is an elongated box or “module” that is transported to the building site, set into place and assembled to create an “instant” finished addition to the existing home.

Every material and design feature that can be found in a conventionally built home addition is used in a modular homes construction.

So what makes modular home additions different from a conventionally built home addition? It’s not how it’s made or how it’s assembled, but rather where it’s assembled inside a state of the art modern factory.

Quality of Modular Home Additions

A factory built home is not a new idea in Michigan. In fact, modular home additions have been manufactured since the early 1800’s. Even Henry Ford and Thomas Edison had modular homes shipped from Sears for their summer homes in Florida. With a state of the art factory, production methods are fine tuned. Efficient material storage methods create very high standards for quality control, ensuring that only the best of the best materials make it to the production line. The overall efficiency of the modular home additions decreases costs while raising building standards making a factory built modular home addition one of the best built homes in the world.

Even conventional stick-built home additions are using a large number of factory-built components and building methods to build modular home additions. Manufactured trusses, factory produced floor joists and prehung doors are all shipped to the site prebuilt and ready to install. Modular home contractors and other subcontractors are increasingly employing factory production materials and techniques to all facets of modular home additions. Thus, quality standards are high with inspections at various milestones along the production timeline of modular home additions.

Advantages of Modular Home Additions

Many people assume the main attraction to building modular home additions is the price. It’s true they are cheaper to build than a conventionally built home addition, but that is just one of the many reasons why a modular home can be better than a custom built home.

Since modular home additions are constructed in a factory, there is no danger of building materials becoming mildewed from rain or infested by larvae. This controlled environment also means no delays due to weather conditions.

Another benefit of modular home additions is its faster construction. You can move into a modular addition much sooner than a stick-built home, with fewer delays due to weather, crew shortages, material delays, etc.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: Modular Home Additions

How Modular Home Additions Affects the Whole Floor Plan

Thursday, October 30, 2014

How Modular Home Additions Affects the Whole Floor Plan

What do you mean by modular home additions? Do they affect the modular home floor plan? A modular home addition is an elongated box or "module" that is transported to the building site, set into place and assembled to create an "instant" finished add...
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Looking at the Modular Home as a Whole System

In modular home construction, you will not be restricted in size or space with regards to your floor plan. Modular homes offer flexible and affordable options in customizing and constructing homes to meet your needs. And, Legendary Homes Inc. never fails to amaze people by embracing and promoting modular home as a system.

Modular Home Building System

A building system is a highly engineered method of producing buildings or building components in an efficient and cost effective manner. The use of building systems is common in many different types of residential, multifamily, and commercial construction. A modular home is the culmination of one type of building system.

A modular home is constructed in segments (called “modules”) in a climate-controlled factory by skilled craftsmen using precise machinery and methods. When these modules come together on your building site and the final finishing touches are completed by your local builder, those modules become a home for you and your family.

Modular Home Construction Process

Today’s modular homes are models of efficiency and quality. The modular home building process begins at the design phase using state of the art Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems to create your floor plan. In-house engineering departments eliminate the need for costly outside engineering firms. Once you have approved your modular home floor plans, third party approved plans are supplied for a building permit application. Once designed, the building process begins. Quality assurance is a constant process from every area of the factory ensuring the finest construction of a modular home.

Quality materials, care for details and the same building codes and standards of modular homes are observed. Efficiency begins with modern factory assembly line techniques. Work is normally not delayed by weather, subcontractor no-shows, or missing materials. Once the modules of a modular home have been constructed at the factory they are ready to be delivered and set. Trucks deliver modules to the site where they are lifted by a crane and placed onto the permanent foundation. A team of experienced laborers will put the modules together on the foundation. Your modular home builder will do final finish work so you can move in.

Topic: Modular Home

Looking at the Modular Home as a Whole System

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Looking at the Modular Home as a Whole System

Modular Home Additions Offer A Wide Variety of Benefits

Modular home additions are fabricated and constructed to meet your exact, unique needs. Whether you are a minimalist or not, there is always a modular floor plan that can be customized according to your preferences. With many options to maximize space and materialize style, it is certainly hard to refute how modular homes have turned out to be exceptional and innovative. For these reasons, modular home additions have become increasingly popular in Jackson.

Modular Home Additions are Custom- Designed

In Jackson, Michigan modular home additions are custom-designed based on the homeowners wants and needs. These homes are systematically built to match your family’s lifestyle, considering your daily activities and habits. The result is a modular home that meets the functional and aesthetic criteria, making the most out of your living space.

A closer look at modular home additions delightful architectural detailing that is a result of thorough outlining of their floor plans. Each plan is customizable with components like accessories, cabinets, decks, detailed doors, and decorative windows. Indeed, the emergence of modular homes has made customization and convenience more accessible and adaptable in terms of design options.

Modular Home Additions are Flexible

Modular home additions are flexible. Choose a formal dining room separate from the kitchen or perhaps a living room, family room, porch, office, weight room, great room and more. Every family uses a home differently. Modular home designs are created specifically for you and your family. Choose to have your modular home entirely custom designed, choose one of our hundreds of standard modular floor plans or modify an existing floor plan to meet your needs. This means that with modular construction, homeowners will be able to maximize their potential live space. Also, in addition to customizable floor plans, your design options are customizable too.

Modular Home Additions are Forever

Modular homes in Jackson, MI are built to last a lifetime and as the modular home additions. Constructed to meet or exceed local and state building codes, modular homes from Avalon Building Systems stand up longer to both weather and time than traditionally built homes.

Modular Home Additions are Energy Efficient

Modular home additions beautifully combines form and function, showcasing some features that may not be available in some site-built homes. The innovative designs are carried throughout the entire modular home from floor to ceiling, inside and out. These homes are also constructed with energy efficiency and green living in mind. That is why air flow and natural lighting are of top priority.

Topic: Modular Home Additions

Modular Home Additions Offer A Wide Variety of Benefits

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Modular Home Additions Offer A Wide Variety of Benefits

Modular home additions are fabricated and constructed to meet your exact, unique needs. Whether you are a minimalist or not, there is always a modular floor plan that can be customized according to your preferences. With many options to maximize sp...
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How Do Modular Home Additions Are Realize

What are the steps to make modular home additions possible?

By combining new technologies in the fields of modular and traditional building techniques, we can let you have modular home additions much quicker than you thought possible, and without the mess and fuss you would normally expect.

By fabricating the modules in our yard, we can achieve better quality control and shorten the traditional process considerably. In effect, we do the entire modular home additions offsite, then after a little preparation at the customer’s home, we then crane the modules into place. All that remains then is just for us to install the staircase and a few finishing touches.

Modular Home Additions Process

After an initial inspection of your modular home by our team, we develop the plans to your requirements for the modular home additions, and once you’re happy we carry out all the building and fitting-out. There’s no mess and no inconvenience in your own modular home additions.

We take care of everything, from initial design to council approvals for the realization of modular home additions. Legendary Homes Inc. also works with final engineer’s drawings and of course, building the modules, fixing them into place and – finally – completing the structure.

When the modules are nearly complete, we will visit your modular home to prepare the roof and a few days later our team will arrive and the completed modules are lowered into place by crane.

After that, there’s just a little bit of finishing work to do inside the house – things like installing the staircase. Your modular home will only be disrupted for a few weeks, not months like you would have previously expected.

Topic: Modular Home Additions

How Do Modular Home Additions Are Realize

Monday, October 27, 2014

How Do Modular Home Additions Are Realize

What are the steps to make modular home additions possible? By combining new technologies in the fields of modular and traditional building techniques, we can let you have modular home additions much quicker than you thought possible, and without...
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Truth and Myths of Modular Home Additions in Jackson, Michigan

Many have been thwarted by how modular home additions affect the structure of a modular house. They say that it could ruin the integrity of the home and decrease its selling value. But that are not the case.

To lighten you about modular home additions, here are the facts and hearsays about it.

Floor Plan Limitations of Modular Home Additions

Contrary to the belief, renovating your modular home will place you in unlimited options. There are no limitations of any sort in modular home additions. Legendary Homes Inc. offer many choices to home owners when they wanted to add something to their modular home floor plan.

Low Resale Value of Modular Home Additions

There are number of modular homes in sold in recent years in Jackson, Michigan. We never have seen a low resale value of well built modular addition to be lower than stick-built. In reality there is no way to see that this is a modular addition without some precise measuring.

Modular Home Additions Are Not Strong and High Quality

Modular units are sturdier then stick built houses. Modular home additions are built by experienced professionals. Modular additions are also built to be above all local codes, so it allow manufacturer to save by following one standard for entire region. Don’t mistake our high-end modular additions with trailer-park prefabs. Only difference from stick build it’s much higher quality and build in controlled environment.

Modular Additions Are Not For Everything

Modular home additions are great for 2nd story above Cape Code and Ranch. There are also beautiful 1-level side additions and 2-story side/back additions are possible, but floor level of the 2nd floor of the addition will be few inches higher then original house – can be easily solved with couple steps. Due to some cost factors, modular additions are cost effective on 500+ sq ft projects.

Modular Home Additions Cost Lesser

Going rate of sq ft of addition is about $150 at this time, but this price usually would not include architectural materials, many “extras” and will basically provide you with basic house. For the same ~$150/sq ft you will get above average modular addition with moldings, doorknobs, top brand fixtures and cabinets. In nutshell you can buy full size Lexus for price of full size Toyota, but this will not make you happy you if you are budgeted to buy Scion. No matter how you slice it modular addition will not cost you more then traditional stick building especially in areas with as expensive labor.

Topic: Modular Home Additions

Truth and Myths of Modular Home Additions in Jackson, Michigan

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Transforming your Current Home into Your Dream Home Through Modular Home Customization

When you need a larger modular home, you don’t have to move out of your neighborhood. Legendary Homes Inc. provides modular home customization quickly, efficiently and cost effectively without displacing your family for months on end.

In as little as one month, your existing ranch modular home can be expanded to a spacious colonial with a second-story addition. Whether you need the space to provide bedrooms for a growing family or simply expand the living areas, we can design the modular home to suit your family’s needs. And all this is possible without the hassle of packing, purchasing a new home, or uprooting your children from the neighborhood and schools they’ve grown to love. Why buy when you can simply customize the place you’ve called home for years? With modular home customization, you can.

Easily Customize Your Dream Modular Home

The best part is, Legendary Homes Inc. custom design the modular home, in addition to securing permits and removal of the existing structure and roof. So there won’t be the hassle – and added cost – of a traditional building project where you could be dealing with multiple architects, carpenters, painters, plumbers, electricians, and interior designers. Modular customization truly are a turnkey solution for your second-story or other home customization.

As the homeowner, you’ll be involved in the entire process. Using Computer Aided Design and a unique password-protected online design center, you can see what your modular home will look like long before the addition is added and can customize it from top to bottom. From flooring to vanity fixtures, the options to personalize your modular home are endless – and all at your fingertips.

Topic: Modular Home

Transforming your Current Home into Your Dream Home Through Modular Home Customization

Features of Modular Home in Michigan Incorporated with Universal Design

When a homeowner wants to place the Universal Design on his modular home, he can find contractors in Michigan. Most of the contractors install the modules that follow the features and accommodations of building codes. The modular home includes state-of-the-art materials, fixtures, appliances, and technology, much of which was contributed by vendors interested in being part of the project.

Entrance of the Modular Home

The entrances of the modular home have step-free thresholds, gradual level grades instead of ramps, and doors that are wide enough for mobility devices. Glass panels at the entrance are added to let all residents easily see visitors at the door. A wide porte-cochere is also installed to provide weather protection from car to door.

Kitchen of the Modular Home

A modular home, especially for older persons and handicapped, should have kitchen counters that have multiple heights to accommodate seated and standing use, and feature easy to reach electrical plugs for small appliances. The wall cabinets are built slightly deeper and mounted at 51″ from the floor, while pull-out storage is provided in many drawers and cabinets. A pull-out cart provides flexibility between under cabinet storage and knee clearance at the wet bar.

Bathrooms of the Universal Designed Modular Home

Spacious bathrooms include, decorative grab bars and comfort height toilets. The curb less roll-in shower includes a trench drain, seat and handheld shower head. Large mirrors over bathroom vanities accommodate both seated and standing users. The glass block mosaic installed above the tub provides light and privacy, while the large ledge around the tub facilitates transferring in and out.

Green Features of the Universal Designed Modular Home

Recycled and/or renewable resources were used in roofing, countertops, flooring and insulation. Energy efficient windows, appliances, lighting, heating and cooling systems were used throughout. The recycled aluminum shingle roof features solar panels as well as six foot overhangs that surround the home to provide shade and reduce solar heat gain in summer. Rain water runs of the roof into a water harvesting system that that is used for landscape irrigation. Low VOC emitting products including matte finish wall paint.

Lighting and Acoustics of the Universal Designed Modular Home

Large windows, skylights and glass block are used to provide natural light. LED lights will be installed in nearly 98% of the fixtures. LED light strips were installed over and under the kitchen cabinetry and are positioned to provide glare-free task lighting to both seated and standing cooks. Dimmer switches and motion detectors make it easy to move through the home after dark. Electrical outlets raised 25″ above the floor throughout the house. Upholstered furniture, a floor to ceiling padded headboard and acoustical gypsum drywall minimize sound in the master bedroom.

Topic: Modular Home

Features of Modular Home in Michigan Incorporated with Universal Design

Friday, October 24, 2014

Features of Modular Home in Michigan Incorporated with Universal Design

Reasons Why Building an Accessible Modular Home Is Often Better Than Remodeling

Many find it more efficient to build an accessible modular home than to remodel an existing home. The amount of demolition and remodeling, in some houses, will make it financially difficult for you and your family to get the modifications you need. Building with modular technology will help cut those costs.

Greater Resale Value

Accessible modular home will almost always have greater resale value than what you paid for it.

Because the value of your modular home will not increase as much as it will cost to remodel it, you often will lose much of the money you spent remodeling when you sell your home.

Accessible Modular Home has Full Accessibility

Since every room in your modular home can be designed to be accessible and located where you want it, you will need to make fewer compromises to get the features and functions that you want.

When remodeling your home, you will often be unable to get all the features and functions that you need or want. Because the remodeler will have to work with your existing structure, he might not be able change the home sufficiently to give you enough of what you need. For example, the remodeler might not be able to locate the accessible bathroom where it would most benefit you.

Efficient Use of Space

Your new modular home will provide you all the rooms you need and without wasted space.

When remodeling your home, you will often have to give up some existing rooms so that the needed features and functional space can be added. For example, one of your existing bedrooms might have to be donated to the remodeling cause so that your hallways, doors, and bathrooms can be widened. When the work is done, you may feel that you have lost space where you need it most and gained it where you need it least.

Lower Architect Fees, Modular Home Custom Design

Whether you wish to customize one of our standard plans or design a completely new custom plan, our fees are substantially less than those required for a sizable remodeling project.

When remodeling your home for accessibility, you will often need to hire an experienced architect to determine a remodeling plan.

Modular Home and Lot Matched in Size

You can match a building lot of appropriate size with a new home that is as big or small as you need and your budget allows.

When remodeling your modular home, your design choices will be limited by the size of your home and your lot. If your modular home is too small, and your lot does not allow for easy expansion, which can happen in city lots, your design options will be limited.

Topic: Modular Home

Reasons Why Building an Accessible Modular Home Is Often Better Than Remodeling

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Reasons Why Building an Accessible Modular Home Is Often Better Than Remodeling

Tips on Changing to Modular Home Floor Plan Accommodate the Handicapped

At this time, there are only a couple of modular home manufacturers that will actually build a really accessible home for the truly handicapped. However, the modular homes that are built are done so in such a manner as to provide minimal coverage of the laws for handicapped access.

The following are the tips on how to have an effective and accommodating accessible modular home for the handicapped;

Incorporate Universal Design for an Accessible Modular Home

Generally speaking, most manufacturers will not make extensive changes in order to accommodate handicapped persons but will do some changes such as putting in wider doors, placing handicapped faucets, toilets, assist bars for tubs etc. Some will even lower counters and cook top surfaces so they are more accessible. Most manufacturers have pull out shelving available.

Almost anything that a manufacturer does when changing anything in a modular home is an extra charge if for nothing more than labor costs. Any structural changes have to be authorized by H.U.D. and design and engineering fees paid for those changes.

Design with the Person

If you are building a home to allow independence and function for someone with a disability, be sure the modular home is designed for the person who will be using the home not designed for the average person with average needs, get an occupational therapist involved many times health insurance will pay for services.

Check the Modular Home Dealers

If you are really interested in a handicapped access home, the best thing to do, as always, is to check with modular home dealers and see what they have to offer and what the home would cost as you would want it. We strongly advise people to do this anyway instead of purchasing a “lot” model that has been sitting around a long time with all kinds of people walking through it. This would also give you the chance to pick a floor plan that best suits your needs. Choosing the right floor plan is a crucial step toward accessibility.

Topic: Modular Home

Tips on Changing to Modular Home Floor Plan Accommodate the Handicapped

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Tips on Changing to Modular Home Floor Plan Accommodate the Handicapped

How to Build a Modular Home on Schedule

Building your modular home on schedule takes eats sweat like building it on budget. In fact, if you put a lot of effort into planning both, you are likely to find that keeping on schedule is considerably harder than staying on budget. That is because you can determine what you will get and how much you will spend before construction begins, and almost all of the required decisions for building a modular home are reasonably predictable and within your control. This is not true for scheduling, since there are so many other players involved who will not always bend to your will, including the surveyor, engineer, utility company, building inspector, dealer, manufacturer, and general contractor. You may even find that your own personal and family obligations become an obstacle to maintaining your schedule.

Benefits of Starting on Time

Most people building a new modular home are prepared for the modular home construction to take longer than planned. They have heard that subcontractors, inclement weather, utility companies, and inspection officials all contribute to delays. Few people, however, anticipate how long it takes to complete those tasks that must be done before they begin construction. Consequently, they budget too little time for these tasks and then try to compensate by skipping some tasks and rushing through others. When this strategy fails, they miss their desired move-in date and pay for it with stress with their family, conflict with their dealer and general contractor, and cost overruns with their budget.

It can take you as little as five weeks or as much as a year or more to complete all of the tasks that must be done before your modular home is delivered. Your responsibilities can take as little as one day, if you order a standard modular plan with no changes, select only standard features, agree all decisions are final, have cash to pay for everything, have a modular home general contractor lined up and ready to go, and have a building permit in hand or don’t need one. If this is true for you, you will be an exception.

Financing and Permit Tasks for Modular Home Construction

Learning the financing and permit permit tasks help you in understanding the sequence of steps in modular home construction. You must complete from the time you order a modular home until it is built and ready for occupancy. It organizes the following dealer, financing, and permit tasks steps into fifteen phases and spells out your responsibilities for each phase in detail.

The General Contractor’s Construction Schedule

Your general contractor is responsible for meeting two modular home construction schedules. The first, the pre-set schedule, includes those tasks he must complete to have your site and foundation ready for the delivery and set of your modular home. The second, the post-set schedule, involves those tasks he must do to complete the excavation on your property, button-up your home, and build your site-built structures.

Topic: Modular Home

How to Build a Modular Home on Schedule

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Mistakes in Designing the Modular Home Floor Plan and How To Avoid Them

Modular Home in Michigan

You choose a modular home that you think will be ideal for you and your family and once you move into, and then you wonder why that floor plan doesn’t work. Many homeowners make common mistakes when looking for the best floor plan to fit their needs.

Whether you are getting ready to design your floor plan with an architect, choosing from a list of modular home floor plans with your modular builder, or house hunting for an existing home in Jackson Michigan, you won’t want to miss these tips on how to avoid the mistakes on designing a modular home floor plan.

Don’t Assume every Modular Home Floor Plan fits your Lifestyle

One of the biggest mistakes when choosing the right modular home floor plan is that you forget to picture your own family cooking in the kitchen or you don’t take into consideration how your bad back may not like going up 3 flights of stairs throughout the day.

Assess your lifestyle before choosing a floor plan. Do you like a single story or multistory home? Do you prefer an open floor plan or are individual rooms with partitions better? Determine what you have become accustomed to in a comfortable home.

Don’t Assume You Have No understanding on Modular home Floor Plan Drawings

If you recently started looking or designing your next modular home, more than likely you will need to review architectural drawings or floor plan drawings. While for many design professionals it is second nature, for many homeowners the symbols and jargon can be difficult to understand. Don’t assume you are supposed to know what every door swing, window, stair, and multi-story space looks like on a floor plan. Don’t make the mistake of assuming just ask.

Ensure Modular Home Features won’t Cost you more in the Future

There is nothing like getting excited about modular home features that look beautiful on a floor plan and feel even nicer when standing inside of the finished home. Details like expansive floor to ceiling windows, skylights and other architectural features could have an impact on heating and cooling your home when your energy bill arrives. While it may not be a concern now, think of green cost savings on your modular home features of your floor plan for future living too.

Consider the Location of the Modular Home

While you can change your modular home floor plan in the future, remember you can’t change the location. With this in mind, don’t make the mistake of falling in love with a floor plan and forgetting about the property and surroundings of your home. If you fall in love with the layout of a master bedroom in floor plan, but don’t like how it looks out over the street in the model home – chances are your home in your location will have a totally different aesthetic and view resulting in a completely different feel. Remember when choosing a floor plan; ensure the interiors will fit with your location.

Choose a Modular Home Floor Plan that works with your Budget Now

One mistake modular home buyers often make when looking at floor plans is over spending for the future, rather than planning for the present. You can always upgrade your modular home. From finishes and innovative additions to possibly adding area and amenities. Don’t get oversold from a home selling agent or a developer’s representative – only you know your budget. It is always great to plan for your budget now so you will feel comfortable living in your home and not feel “financially strained. Legendary Homes Inc. offers many modular home options that include unfinished space which can be a great way to fit today’s budget while leaving the potential to improve and expand in the future.

Topic: Modular Home

Mistakes in Designing the Modular Home Floor Plan and How To Avoid Them

Monday, October 20, 2014

How to Build a Modular Home on Schedule

Mistakes in Designing the Modular Home Floor Plan and How To Avoid Them

[caption id="attachment_1217" align="alignright" width="300"] Modular Home in Michigan[/caption] You choose a modular home that you think will be ideal for you and your family and once you move into, and then you wonder why that floor plan doesn
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Mistakes You Should Avoid To Have a Successful Modular Home Construction

People choose modular home because they offer time and cost savings. Not all savings are necessarily a wise decision. Before you proceed with your factory built home you should read this article and learn which shortcuts to avoid. By avoiding these modular home mistakes you will be much happier and richer in the long term. The “mistakes” we list are generalized. They may not apply to you but more often than not they will.

Do Not Purchase the Modular Home based on Cost per Square Foot

The common question of asking how much a modular home cost per square foot is not an informative value and is often misunderstood. An example is like asking how much floor covering cost is per square foot. You may receive a price quote for inexpensive linoleum tiles, however your expectations are for ceramic tiles. This is one example of the hundreds of variables that will affect the price of your project. Certainly, you will receive a quote for the cheapest flooring material just to get the sale. The same misconceptions are true in home construction. Modular home floor plan costs vary greatly due to the differences that are unique to each home as a result of the quality of construction. A lower cost per square foot home is due to a lower quality construction and material used in the home and the reason why the cost per square footage cost can be a very misleading number.

Do Not Purchase from Modular Home Retailers who are Not Licensed Builders

The majority of modular home sales centers are only licensed to sell homes, and are not licensed builders. As a result, there is a tendency to underestimate the total cost that includes the site work required to prepare the land for your home. Dealers give the homebuyer the illusion of a low price, not only because they don’t have the experience of the actual construction costs, but also because they want to sell you a home and send you on your way. Modular home dealers who are not licensed builder do not have the expertise to provide a cost estimate for a foundation, well, septic, driveway, tree clearing, land excavation and all the others costs to make sure your home is properly built.

Do Not Act as your own Modular Home General Contractor

Perform a risk assessment before you act as your own modular home general contractor. An assessment will help you understand the risks involved if you choose to act as your own general contractor. Compare the savings versus the risks involved if something goes wrong. Understand that a subcontractor is only responsible for their specific part, not the entire project.

Do Not Purchase based on the Lowest Price

Be an educated buyer and confirm everything that is included in the price. If you are unsure, do not be afraid to ask what is included in the price. If the price only includes the house, then you must price out the home preparation work. The entire home cost should also include the excavation, septic system, foundation, electrical, mechanical, permits, well, and other necessary prerequisites before you take delivery of your home. Obtain a complete detailed list of the items included from your home retailer. Review everything on the list so that your home will be built to the quality level you expect and includes all the necessary items to complete your project.

Know the Difference between Modular Home vs. Mobile Home

Understand the difference between a modular home and a mobile home built to modular specifications. The differences can affect the price of the home and its resale value, as well as the finance costs. Some mobile home manufacturers are building floor plan designs to meet the higher standards of modular building codes, instead of the standard HUD codes that apply to mobile homes. These homes are priced less, however there are differences in the quality and design of the homes that homebuyers should be aware of before purchasing these homes. These mobile homes are generally one-story and are designed to go on a crawl space therefore the heating system does not have the capacity to heat a basement area, and the structural integrity does not have the same quality as a modular home.

Topic: Modular Home

Mistakes You Should Avoid To Have a Successful Modular Home Construction

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Reasons to Take the Modular Home Construction As Your Next Project

Modular Home in Michigan

Modular home construction is one of the fastest growing sectors of the construction industry. It is an industry where many have given their utmost trust. Modular construction triples the savings of homeowners as it provides self- efficient home.

Modular Home Construction is Controlled

A modular home is constructed of building materials in a controlled factory setting. The factory setting allows manufacturers of modular homes to use automated and technologically advanced systems and machinery in an assembly-line fashion.

Modular Home Construction Follows the Building Codes

Modular homes are built to the exact same prescriptive building codes that local modular home builders meet. It is the job of the manufacturer and the local builder to design each individual home to the local building code. Modular homes are also built using the exact same building materials in site-built homes.

Modular homes are appraised and financed exactly in the same manner as site-built homes. Most jurisdictions zone and treat modular homes as any other residential structure, and the industry is educating those jurisdictions that may act differently.

Modular Home Construction is Monitored Accordingly

A state certified or third party inspector will inspect the homes during the factory construction phase. A local inspector inspects all work done on-site, both prior to module erection and assembly, and any work completed thereafter.

Modular Home Construction is a Cooperative Work

A modular home manufacturer works directly with a modular home dealer or builder or general contractor. A successful partnership between a modular manufacturer and a local builder or dealer or general contractor is absolutely necessary for a successful modular home project.

By building off-site, a modular home manufacturer creates greater efficiency and allows builders to become more productive, thereby building more homes and creating jobs locally.

Big Savings Are Harvested with Modular Home Construction

On-time and volume purchasing enables manufacturers to build homes at a reduced cost, which then are passed onto the consumer. More importantly, the modular construction process saves time. By shortening the construction time, a builder is better able to manage the soft costs of construction, thereby increasing efficiencies and saving money, which again is passed onto the consumer.

Topic: Modular Home

Reasons to Take the Modular Home Construction As Your Next Project

Saturday, October 18, 2014

Reasons to Take the Modular Home Construction As Your Next Project

[caption id="attachment_1312" align="alignright" width="300"] Modular Home in Michigan[/caption] Modular home construction is one of the fastest growing sectors of the construction industry. It is an industry where many have given their utmost tru...
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How Does a General Contractor Wow in Modular Home Construction

Building of Modular Home On- Site Being a general contractor is a hard way to make an easy living. There are lots of moving parts totally out of control when doing modular home construction. Things aren t perfect including the plans, specifications, field conditions, inspectors, subcontractors, suppliers, deliveries, conflicts, and payments. Customers expect everything from a general contractor to go exactly as scheduled, with perfect quality, no hiccups or extra costs. The problem with the modular home construction business is every party wants to make more money by providing the minimum. Scope of work is clearly defined and most contracts are awarded to the lowest qualified bidder based on price. The bidder who offers better service for more money rarely gets the contract. This causes every general contractor to balance providing great service and exceptional quality while making a fair profit. General Contractors Man the Job When working with a modular home project, be prepared to
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How Does a General Contractor Wow in Modular Home Construction

Building of Modular Home On- Site

Being a general contractor is a hard way to make an easy living. There are lots of moving parts totally out of control when doing modular home construction. Things aren’t perfect including the plans, specifications, field conditions, inspectors, subcontractors, suppliers, deliveries, conflicts, and payments. Customers expect everything from a general contractor to go exactly as scheduled, with perfect quality, no hiccups or extra costs.

The problem with the modular home construction business is every party wants to make more money by providing the minimum. Scope of work is clearly defined and most contracts are awarded to the lowest qualified bidder based on price. The bidder who offers better service for more money rarely gets the contract. This causes every general contractor to balance providing great service and exceptional quality while making a fair profit.

General Contractors Man the Job

When working with a modular home project, be prepared to properly man projects with enough qualified trained workers. A larger modular home job may take 5 to 10 men to maintain the schedule. If you only have 5 men on your entire crew, don’t bid it and hope you can find enough help when you need them.

A General Contractor is Well Financed

Subcontractors and suppliers who are undercapitalized, usually don’t have enough working capital or an adequate bank line of credit to handle the work they can get. This causes a cash-flow crunch which doesn’t allow them to hire enough help to get their jobs done on-time. This creates stress and causes their businesses to run inefficiently. This makes everyone upset including the general contractor, construction manager, project developer while it hurts the other subcontractors on the job. The underfinanced subcontractor then makes their problem become their customer’s problem, which ends up in lost profits and no repeat work.

To run a successful modular home construction, a general contractor should at least have 20% of his annual sales volume in working capital plus a bank line of credit of at least 15% of annual sales as a backup.

A General Contractor Manages the Contract

A reputable general contractor reads the contract thoroughly. He knows the by-laws of the contract and everything in between. Most contractors sit and discuss the contract with the home owner before doing the job.

Be A Pro- Active General Contractor

A pro-active subcontractor is on top of every job they have a contract to build. They don’t wait for customers to call. They take responsibility for monitoring all their projects by visiting jobsites early and staying in touch with project superintendents on a regular basis. When they get the call to start, they’re ready, the materials are approved and available, the foreman is familiar with the project, and they are ready to man the job as required to maintain the schedule.

Topic: General Contractor

How Does a General Contractor Wow in Modular Home Construction

Friday, October 17, 2014

How Does a General Contractor Wow in Modular Home Constructiona

[caption id="attachment_1204" align="alignright" width="300"] Building of Modular Home On- Site[/caption] Being a general contractor is a hard way to make an easy living. There are lots of moving parts totally out of control when doing modular hom...
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Hiring a General Contractor to Incorporate Universal Design in your Modular Home

If you have decided to install the Universal Design features to your modular home, hire a reputable general contractor. A general contractor will take charge of the project, ordering materials, getting necessary building permits, and hiring subcontractors or workers as needed. Subcontractors can be hired to do part of the work, but in this case, you or a family member will become the general contractor with all the responsibility of ordering materials and scheduling work.

Get Referrals from Previous Clients

When hiring a general contractor, it is better to get recommendations from friends or neighbors who have had similar project as yours. To have a satisfactory experience with a contractor, hire one with a good reputation and spell out, in writing, all the parts of the contract. It is a good idea to talk with and get estimates from more than one contractor or firm. Get referrals from friends or neighbors. Modular home improvement stores often have installation services available or have a list of recommended installers.

Check the License or Certification of the General Contractor

It is always a wise move to hire a licensed and bonded general contractor. This is to ensure that all money and effort is placed into worth. Check with your local housing department regarding the modular home general contractor’s reliability and performance record.

Discuss the Contract or Features of the Modular Home First

Ask the general contractor for references and check the references before signing a contract. Get everything in writing. Only sign a contract after thoroughly reading it and be sure that you are comfortable with the language. You have the right to modify the contract wording to meet your expectations before you sign it. The general contractor must then initial changes for the contract to be binding.

Write down features you would like before signing a contract or beginning construction. Have the general contractor figure the cost of these features into his or her price to complete the project to your specifications.

Topic: General Contractor

Hiring a General Contractor to Incorporate Universal Design in your Modular Home

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Hiring a General Contractor to Incorporate Universal Design in your Modular Home

Designing the Accessible Modular Home for Persons with Hearing Impairment

Modular Home in Michigano

Modular home floor plans can be easily modified to meet universal design features, or be customized as much as needed to meet your specific accessibility requirements. It can accommodate persons with hearing impairment most especially. In addition to the floor plan, a good accessible modular home design will need to include plans for entrances to the home as well as access to the landscape and outdoor entertainment.

Accessible modular home design is not just about putting in a wheelchair ramp or a lift; it is about the comfortable enjoyment of home, family, and friends. It is a standard of living that provides a quality experience for everyone in the home.

Universal Design for Modular Home

Universal Design overlaps and exceeds most all requirements. The concept of universal design is to make all spaces accessible to the greatest number of people with the greatest possible range of abilities. This is the same principle behind aging-in-place. People are starting to look to the future and plan a home that will accommodate their needs as they age, or need to take in an aging parent, or care for an injured family member, or simply to have friends with disabilities over to watch the game. Universal Design is a smart design choice for many reasons, including resale value.

Features of Modular Home for People with Hearing Impairment

The main goal of designing toward specific disabilities is to provide the highest level of ease of use, safety, comfort, and independence. If you are designing your modular home for yourself, or someone that will be living with you who has a hearing loss, it is important to plan for your immediate needs, and to plan for the future and any expected changes in abilities. Adding additional alert systems, and wiring for them, now will save you money and disruption later on if you have to retrofit theses features. Some of the features you may want to add to the design of your modular home are alarms systems such as flashing lights, loud sounds, or bed shaking;outlets near phone jacks for TTYs and other devices; anda window or viewing panel by the entry door to identify visitors

Universal Design for modular home minimizes background noises, for example: locate air conditioning equipment away from main living and/or entertaining areas. It can also keep open spaces for visibility and ensure lighting is sufficient for visual communication.

Topic: Modular Home

Designing the Accessible Modular Home for Persons with Hearing Impairment

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Designing the Accessible Modular Home for Persons with Hearing Impairment

[caption id="attachment_1217" align="alignright" width="300"] Modular Home in Michigano[/caption] Modular home floor plans can be easily modified to meet universal design features, or be customized as much as needed to meet your specific accessibi...
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Explaining the Roles and Responsibilities of General Contractor and Subcontractor in Modular Home Construction

When dealing with modular home construction, you enter the realm of general contractor and subcontractor. But what’s the difference between the roles and responsibilities of a general contractor and subcontractor?

General Contractor versus Subcontractor

General contractor is someone who has a contract directly with the owner of the property of a project, or with someone “knowingly permitted” by the owner to improve the project. He is the “big picture” thinker. They work with you through the entire project, from the idea phase to the finished product. General contractors are more like managers and coordinators, but many have a crew of their own and perform some of the subcontract tasks.

By contrast, a subcontractor comes and goes. Subcontractor is someone hired by the general contractor, rather than the owner, or the owner’s agent. They specialize in certain areas of the construction process, like large equipment operation, concrete formulation, plumbing, electricity and carpentry. They enter a project to do a particular task and leave when that task is finished. The subcontractors are responsible for specific trades, most are the minor program from the overall project. Thus, the agreement to do the work is never made directly between the subcontractor and the owner.

Fees of General Contractor versus Subcontractor

By law, the subcontractor will be paid only if the general contractor is first paid by the owner, whereas under a “pay-when-paid” provision, the subcontractor will be paid when the contractor is paid by the owner. A pay-if-paid provision creates a condition precedent to the contractor’s duty to pay its subcontractor and the risk of an owner’s non-payment is shared by the contractor and the subcontractor. With a pay-when-paid clause, the general contractor has a duty to pay the subcontractor whether or not the contractor receives payment from the owner, and payment will be due the subcontractor within a reasonable time after the owner should have paid the contractor.

Employees of General Contractor versus Subcontractor

If you decide to hire a general contractor, he or she may have a permanent staff of employees. In this case, you might have few, if any, subcontractors involved in your project. Hiring employees versus subcontractors is an economic decision. The employer — in this case, the general contractor — must pay salaries and purchase worker’s compensation insurance for employees.

Since subcontractors are independent business people, general contractors don’t have to pay to insure them or pay employment taxes on them. Hiring subcontractors for overflow work or to perform tasks that call for expertise that isn’t needed on a regular basis saves expenses for the general contractor and ultimately, for you.

Topic: General Contractor

Explaining the Roles and Responsibilities of General Contractor and Subcontractor in Modular Home Construction

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Explaining the Roles and Responsibilities of General Contractor and Subcontractor in Modular Home Construction

When dealing with modular home construction, you enter the realm of general contractor and subcontractor. But what's the difference between the roles and responsibilities of a general contractor and subcontractor? General Contractor versus Subcontra...
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Start your Research and Hire a Great General Contractor for your Modular Home Today!

Looking for a reputable general contractor can be daunting especially if you are a first time home buyer. To alleviate your concerns, here some tips on hiring a general contractor for your modular home; Ask for Referrals When searching for a Reputable General Contractor If you live in an area that has plenty of resources, ask around at your local home improvement store or lumber yard for contractors they have seen buying quality products. Be mindful of contractors that few people have heard of, or haven’t seen where they purchase their building materials. Poor quality building materials can be the beginning of an awful modular home construction. Ask Questions over the Phone First Before having a general contractor come out to your home, ask them interview questions by phone. Questions should include: *What other projects have they done that are similar in size and complexity as your project? *What are their payment requirements? (Avoid contractors who only accept cash, or require
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Start your Research and Hire a Great General Contractor for your Modular Home Today!

Looking for a reputable general contractor can be daunting especially if you are a first time home buyer. To alleviate your concerns, here some tips on hiring a general contractor for your modular home;

Ask for Referrals When searching for a Reputable General Contractor

If you live in an area that has plenty of resources, ask around at your local home improvement store or lumber yard for contractors they have seen buying quality products. Be mindful of contractors that few people have heard of, or haven’t seen where they purchase their building materials. Poor quality building materials can be the beginning of an awful modular home construction.

Ask Questions over the Phone First

Before having a general contractor come out to your home, ask them interview questions by phone. Questions should include: *What other projects have they done that are similar in size and complexity as your project? *What are their payment requirements? (Avoid contractors who only accept cash, or require you to write a check directly to them instead of the business) *Ask if their license is current and when it expires *Where is their office located.

Meet the General Contractor in Person

Once you feel comfortable over the phone, it is time to meet the general contractor at your home. Don’t ignore your gut feeling when talking with a general contractor. When you ask them questions, the contractor should be able to answer concisely and not seem hesitant. Ask them in person again for projects that you can go see, or ask for contact information of previous clients and projects.

Get at least 3-4 bids on your Modular Home project

Each general contractor should ask for floor plans of your home, and get a list of your wants and needs from you. Have the contractor explain how they will begin, execute and finish the project from beginning to end. Ask each general contractor to divide their bids into categories for easy determination of what you are really paying for. Categories should include: labor, materials, profit and miscellaneous expenses.

Don’t choose the General Contractor with the Cheapest Price

Although tempting, don’t go with the lowest price general contractor. They could be the lowest because of low quality materials, or they are desperate and haven’t worked recently. Choose one that you feel comfortable with their personality, price, background, and methods. Put everything in writing and make a schedule of milestones in which to pay the contractor. Assure that your contractor gets a lien release which will protect you if they don’t pay their subcontractors and bills. Remember a quality contractor will not give you a “low ball” offer.

Topic: General Contractor

Start your Research and Hire a Great General Contractor for your Modular Home Today!

Monday, October 13, 2014

Start your Research and Hire a Great Contractor for your Modular Home Today!

How the Modular Home Floor Plan Customization Process Works

60′ by 26′ Modular Home Floor Plan

Although some people find modular home floor plan that fit their needs perfectly, the majority of floor plans are modified before they are built. Nearly all modular home builders in Jackson, Michigan are very accustomed to this and have a process in place to handle modular home floor plan modifications.

Look for a Modular Home Floor Plan

The modular home floor plan customization process starts with you looking at different floor plans and considering which one have features you like most. Once you have some ideas on what you like and don’t like, it’s time to talk to a modular builder to discuss how to modify the floor plan to meet your needs exactly. Most modular builders offer consultation services to assist you in making plan modifications.

Have a Picture of the Floor Plan You Want

If you already have a floor plan you like, it is much easier for you. Customization will be smooth sailing because you have a definite style on a specific area of the modular home.

Look for a Modular Home Builder

Find a builder to discuss what modifications you want for the existing modular home floor plan. Nearly all plans can be built using modular technology, although some may need some minor changes to be made ‘modular-friendly’ so that you can benefit most from the efficiencies of modular construction.

Get Your Modular Builder Involved

Discussing plan modifications is a great way to get to know a modular builder before hiring them to build you a home. If you have a modular builder already, now is a great time to bring them into the conversation. If you are looking for a local modular builder

Ask for the Cost of Modular Home Floor Plan Customization

Since it professional takes time and resources, there may be fees associated with making plan modifications. Fees, if any, can vary greatly based on many factors. In many cases these fees can be applied toward the purchase of your new modular home. Contact your builder to inquire about possible fees and if they can be applied to a home purchase.

Topic: Modular Home Floor Plan

How the Modular Home Floor Plan Customization Process Works

[caption id="attachment_1672" align="alignright" width="300"] 60' by 26' Modular Home Floor Plan[/caption] Although some people find modular home floor plan that fit their needs perfectly, the majority of floor plans are modified before they are b...
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Sunday, October 12, 2014

Legendary Homes Inc. Provides A Sustainable Modular Home in Jackson, Michigan

A modular home promotes sustainability, simplicity and livability. Legendary Homes Inc. is among the best contractors that offer sustainable modular home in Jackson, Michigan.

Organized and Effective Modular Home Construction Process

Because the components of a modular home are mass produced in a controlled and protected factory, manufacturers use materials much more efficiently than traditional construction. The manufacturers ensure that construction process is organized to produce less waste and to ensure that the components fit together precisely, which make the modular home airtight. The construction site impacts, such as noise, waste and polluted water run-off, are dramatically reduced.

Because of the factory construction of these buildings, modular dwelling are very affordable and environmentally friendly, result in low waste, and have the ability to service remote locations. They can be constructed in a few short weeks, with minimal weather delays.

Use of Solar Panels

Remember it’s not all about the modular home itself. Solar panels can be used to attain a sustainable modular home. Solar panels generate energy for the home especially if it is located in a remote location or far from the city or power source. For passive solar design, align living areas to the north to capture free heat and sunlight, but note the main eco-drawback of modular homes is they don’t have a lot of thermal mass, which helps to even out temperature extremes. Still, a modular home that has achieved a high quality rating will compensate for the lack of thermal mass.

Sustainable Modular Home has High Levels of Insulation

The modular home retains heat in the cool months due to high levels of insulation in the roof and walls and double-glazed windows throughout. Its house energy rating was boosted to high quality and efficient ratings; the concrete was poured over a layer of the walls of the modular home that help insulate the basement from the ground’s temperature changes.

Topic: Modular Home

Legendary Homes Inc. Provides A Sustainable Modular Home in Jackson, Michigan

Saturday, October 11, 2014

Legendary Homes Inc. Provides A Sustainable Modular Home in Jackson, Michigan

A modular home promotes sustainability, simplicity and livability. Legendary Homes Inc. is among the best contractors that offer sustainable modular home in Jackson, Michigan. Organized and Effective Modular Home Construction Process Because the co...
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Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens in Jackson, Michigan

Many senior citizens are opting to have modular home floor plan that years before they retire. They are looking for manufacturers, floor plans and locations. Their willingness to shred time for researching on the modular home floor plan pays off when high quality home and energy efficient is produced.

A floor plan of a proposed modular home for senior citizens attached to the left side of a two-story. The windows on the left side of the living room and family room in the existing home will have to be removed, and a new opening will need to be added in the living room to receive the door to the addition’s kitchen. The two left-side windows on the second floor will also need to be moved if the roof pitch on the addition is steep.

Barrier- Free Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens

Senior citizens are vulnerable. They are prone to household accidents such as fall, tripping and electrocution. These accidents can be prevented with effective modular home floor plan. Most builders follow Universal Design to promote safety for the senior citizens.

Accessible Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens

Designing an accessible modular home floor plans requires unique and special vision and experience. We understand the challenges you and your family face and we understand the housing standards for accessible-designed homes and Americans with disabilities codes as well. But on top of that, we design your home to be inviting and comfortable. We take great care to make your home look and feel beautiful, and yet functional. Our modular home floor plan for senior citizens features blend in with the style and architecture of the entire modular home. We incorporate features such as no-step entries, wide hallways and doors, residential elevators, barrier-free kitchen and bathrooms, hydraulic lifts, and roll-in showers to name a few.

Universal Designed Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens

Building a modular home that features the principles of Universal Design’s easy access will meet a family’s needs now and into the future, allowing homeowners to age in place without forcing them to make expensive renovations, move, or radically alter their lifestyle when their abilities start to slip. When universal design is done well it will not be obvious or apparent. When a modular home is built based on the principles of universal design building construction, it accommodates not only diversity in general human function but also the changes that occur as the result of aging, illness or injury.

Topic: Modular Home Floor Plan

Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens in Jackson, Michigan

Friday, October 10, 2014

Modular Home Floor Plan for Senior Citizens in Jackson, Michigan

Many senior citizens are opting to have modular home floor plan that years before they retire. They are looking for manufacturers, floor plans and locations. Their willingness to shred time for researching on the modular home floor plan pays off whe...
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Importance of Universal Design for Modular Home Construction

Universal Design is a growing in modular home construction. Although consumers sometimes think it is just another way of describing low quality accessible construction or wheelchair accessibility, Universal Design is actually a much broader concept. It is intended to create modular homes that are usable by all people, whether they’re young or old, tall or short, strong or weak, able-bodied or with a disability. By incorporating features such as level or step- less entrances, wider hallways, and larger doors, a Universal Designed modular home becomes easier to navigate when pushing a child in a stroller or moving furniture in or out of a room.

Affordable Modular Home Construction Cost

A modular home that features the principles of Universal Design’s easy access will meet a family’s needs now and into the future. It will also allow modular home owners to age in place without forcing them to make expensive renovations, move, or radically alter their lifestyle when their abilities start to slip.

Building a modular home with Universal Design principles is an affordable way to help your family stay in their existing home when their needs change.

Easy Modification of Modular Home Floor Plan

Modular homes can readily accommodate the principles of Universal Design. Legendary Homes Inc can modify most standard plans to enlarge the doorways, hallways, and bathrooms. Universal access may require us to change the shape and size of some rooms, but this usually will not present problems if the floor plan is large enough, and it is unlikely to cost much.

In addition to changes in the floor plan, universal home design incorporates user-friendly items like lever door handles and faucets. If you want to build a home that is usable by all of your family and friends, consider including some of the following Universal Design products and options in your home.

Long Term Benefits of Modular Home

A Universal Designed modular home will give your family long-term comfort, safety, and stability – all preserved without loss of affordability and without adding a clinical appearance. It will provide these benefits whether you are a first time home buyer or a move-up buyer. In addition, the attractive easy accessibility features and affordability of these homes will give your home a high resale value.

Topic: Modular Home

Importance of Universal Design for Modular Home Construction