Land Lease Living Affordable Lifestyle Living | Page 10

Home Manufactured (factory-built) homes are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, not only within land lease communities but also as an attractive option for residential housing – particularly in regional areas. Homes in high demand These architecturally designed homes can be manufactured to suit any site and any budget. They are in high demand because of their innovative and appealing designs, sustainable features, and use of quality materials, durability and ease of onsite installation. Manufactured homes are built in the controlled conditions of a high-tech factory. Depending on the size and inclusions you choose, the home can be completed within 8–12 weeks. After being transported from the factory the home can be installed on your site in just a few days. The manufactured housing industry produces homes that maximise light and space and include high-tech features providing energy efficiency. The homes can be luxuriously designed with marble bathrooms, wood flooring, insulated roofs and walls, spacious rooms, decks, verandas, garages, and even vertical gardens. How to buy a manufactured home Those considering a move into a land lease community should first consider which community they would like to live in. Some communities have a mix of new and older style homes. However, there are also many new communities springing up which closely resemble up-market housing estates or resorts. Buying from the Community Operator 3 Buying a New Home: New or recently refurbished land lease communities offer prospective residents the opportunity to buy a ‘package’ that includes the purchase of a new home and the site rental. Residents are able to customise a new home to fit their selected site and their needs. This allows them to choose from a range of designs and specify everything from the number of rooms, the floor plan, exteriors, wall finishes, colour scheme, floor coverings, bathroom fittings and appliances. Many land lease communities also have new homes that have already been erected on site. It’s just a matter of choosing the one you like and making the purchase either through the operator, the existing home owner or direct from the home manufacturer. 3 Buying a ‘Pre-Loved’ Home: Usually operators also coordinate the sales and site inspections of ‘pre-loved’ homes within their communities. These can be latest designs or sometimes older, cottage style dwellings. Many communities promote pre-loved homes for sale on their websites on behalf of home owners. It is usually advisable to book an inspection in advance. Buying Direct From the Manufacturer Land lease communities also offer sites that are fully prepared for the installation of a newly manufactured home. Once you decide on a site you can then arrange to purchase a new home direct from the manufacturer. Manufactured home builders offer homebuyer packages with many inclusions as standard items. In addition they may offer options to purchase additional services and building elements. ———— New architect-designed homes built to suit your needs or ‘pre-loved’ cosy cottages – the choice is yours. 8  Land Lease Living