Are you considering building a prefab home? If so, you're in the right place! In this guide, we'll explore the prices, designs, pros, and cons of prefab homes to help you make an informed decision.
The Average Cost of a Prefab Home
Prefab homes come with an attractive price tag. On average, you can expect to pay between $80 and $120 per square foot. To give you a better idea, a basic 1,600 sq.ft. prefab home can cost around $128,000 to $192,000. For a 1,800 sq.ft. prefab house, prices range from $144,000 to $216,000, and for larger homes over 2,000 sq.ft., prices start at $160,000 and can go up to $240,000 or more. It's important to note that these estimates only include the cost of the home itself and not the land.
Factors That Affect Prefab Home Prices
The actual cost of your prefab home will depend on several factors, including the number of stories, the complexity of the design, and the level of customization you desire. Each of these factors can add to the overall cost. To get a more accurate estimate, you can use our Home Building Calculator, which takes into account these variables.
Prefab Home Prices Based on Size
The table below provides estimates for building prefab homes of different sizes and with varying numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms. Keep in mind that these estimates are for mid-range quality prefab homes without high-end features or customization options.
| House Size (Sq.Ft.) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-Story Ranch 2 Bdrm/1 Bathroom (1,000 sq.ft.) | $40,000-85,000 |
| 1-Story Ranch 2 Bdrm/1 Bathroom (1,600 sq.ft.) | $60,000 - 120,000 |
| 1-Story Ranch 3 Bdrm/2 Bathroom (1,600 sq.ft.) | $65,000 - 130,000 |
| 1-Story Ranch 3 Bdrm/3 Bathroom (1,700 sq.ft.) | $70,000 - 140,000 |
| 1-Story Ranch 4 Bdrm/3 Bathroom (2,200 sq.ft.) | $82,000 - 180,000 |
| 1-Story Ranch 5 Bdrm/3 Bathroom (2,600 sq.ft.) | $105,000 -210,000 |
| 2-Story Ranch 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom (2,100 sq.ft). | $85,000 - 175,000 |
The Total Cost of a Prefab Home
In addition to the cost of the home itself, there are other expenses to consider. Here's a quick estimate of the additional costs involved in building a basic prefab home:
- Shipping: $5,500 - $16,000
- Land Clearing and Preparation: $2,500 - $5,500
- Foundation: $4,500 - $12,000
- Contractor Labor Cost of House Installation: $20,000 - $60,000
- Utility lines construction (gas, electric, sewer main): $5,500 - $20,000
- Taxes (vary by state): $5,000 - $10,000
- Permits & Fees: $500 - $5,000
- Additions (Deck, Garage): $9,500 - $40,000
Taking these additional costs into account, the total cost for an 1,800 square-foot, 2-bedroom/2-bathroom prefab home can range from $85,000 to $165,000.
Labor Cost to Install a Prefab Home
Installing a prefab home is a complex task that requires technical knowledge and experience. It's crucial to hire professionals with expertise in building modular homes. The average labor cost for a 1,800 sq.ft. prefab house is around $50,000. However, this cost can increase significantly for higher-end homes with custom details, reaching up to $65,000 to $75,000 in labor.
The installation process, also known as "buttoning up," involves:
- Assembling and attaching the house sections
- Installing exterior siding, trim, and roofing
- Installing interior finishes, such as drywall, flooring, cabinetry, and counters
- Installing windows and doors
- Hooking up and installing kitchen appliances, heating and cooling systems, and plumbing
- Installing lighting
Sub-contractors are typically hired to complete tasks such as HVAC work, electrical work, and plumbing. Keep in mind that labor costs can vary based on location, with higher fees in more expensive cities and towns.
Cost to Clear and Prepare the Land
Before installing your prefab home, you'll need to clear and prepare the land. This is a significant cost in addition to the home itself. Basic land clearing can start at $2,500 but may go up to $6,000 or more. This includes land inspection, tree and rock removal, and leveling the ground.
If extensive excavation or removing existing structures is required, expect to spend an additional $3,500 to $5,000. Demolishing an existing house can cost between $15,000 and $20,000. Other expenses, such as filling up a well or obtaining special permits, can range from $2,000 to $5,000. It's essential to check local laws and regulations for more accurate cost estimates.
Home Foundation Costs
Unlike mobile homes, prefab homes require a foundation. The type and size of the foundation you choose will impact the overall cost. Here are a few examples:
- Monolithic Concrete Slab: $4,500 - $13,000
- Crawlspace: $8,000 - $25,000
- Basement Foundation: $18,000 - $35,000
Essentials Not Included in the Cost
When purchasing a prefab home, there are additional costs to consider beyond the price of the home itself. These include:
- Land: You'll need to purchase the land separately and ensure it complies with zoning laws.
- Landscaping: This includes installing a driveway.
- Foundation: The cost of the foundation is not included in the list price of prefab homes.
- Utilities: Utility hookups and connections are not included.
- Appliances: Air conditioners, washers, dryers, furnaces, ovens, and other appliances are not included.
To get an accurate price range for your new prefab home, it's important to include these additional costs in your calculations.
Prefab Homes vs. Stick-Built Houses: A Cost Comparison
Prefab homes are generally 10% to 15% cheaper than stick-built houses. On average, the cost per square foot for a modular home is $90 to $120, compared to $150 to $180 for a stick-built house. Additionally, prefab homes can be built in a few weeks to a few months, while stick-built homes often take months or longer.
One of the reasons prefab homes are more affordable is their factory construction process. This allows for greater efficiency and quality control. By spotting and fixing any issues during the production line, the risk of faulty goods is reduced. Furthermore, prefab homes consolidate all the necessary features in one place, eliminating the need for hiring multiple contractors.
What Is a Prefab Home?
Prefab homes, also known as modular homes, are built mostly in factories and then transported to the site for assembly. They are not to be confused with mobile homes, which are constructed entirely in a factory and transported on wheels. Prefab homes can have complex designs and even include traditional basements.
Manufacturers of prefab homes have significantly improved their design and luxury level in recent years. They now offer features such as quality siding and roofing, high-end interior finishes, open floor plans, tall ceilings, and energy-efficient appliances and insulation.
Building a Prefab Home Under $100K
If you're on a budget, there are many options for purchasing a prefab home under $100,000. While choices are limited under $50,000, prices above $60,000 offer a wide range of modular homes. As the price approaches $100,000, you can find two-story homes with more customization options.
Here are a few examples of modern prefab homes under $100,000:
- Classic Deltec: 328 sq.ft., classic round design, approximate turnkey price: $75,000 - $115,000
- Matchbox by Backyard Box: 525 sq.ft., kitchen, bathroom, living space, approximate turnkey price: $79,500 (excluding appliances)
- M-1 by Zip Kit Homes: 400 sq.ft., one bedroom, one bathroom, loft for sleeping, wrap-around deck, approximate turnkey price: $72,000 - $100,000
- Kithaus K5: 278 sq.ft., approximate turnkey price: $67,000+
- And more!
How Long Does It Take to Build a Prefab House?
Prefab homes can be assembled much faster than stick-built homes. On average, assembly takes between four to six months, but it can be as little as a week. Factors such as weather, location, and the brand of the prefab home can affect the construction timeline. In comparison, stick-built homes typically take around eight months to build.
Top Prefab Home Builders
Choosing the right prefab home builder can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some top prefab home builders to consider:
- Wheelhaus: Offers luxurious prefab homes known for their environmental friendliness, approximate starting price: $82,000
- Little House on the Trailer: Provides affordable, quickly assembled modular homes, starting at $60,000
- Blu Homes: Offers stunning, modern designs with energy-efficient features, starting at $145,000
- Rocio Romero LV Series: Focuses on incorporating the natural landscape, starting at $6,000
- Ma Modular: Provides diverse models with a starting price of $150 per square foot
- Method Homes: Offers customizable, design-focused homes, minimal cost: $95,000
- House Port: Provides unique, cube-like homes, starting at $65,000
- weeHouse: Offers blocks that can be arranged for custom designs, starting at $80,000
- LivingHomes: Known for their environmental friendliness and customization options, starting at $139,000
Sustainability of Prefab Homes vs. Stick-Built Homes
Prefab homes are generally more eco-friendly than stick-built homes for several reasons. First, their construction process produces less waste because the entire home is built in a factory. This reduces the environmental impact of the building process. Many prefab home companies also offer energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and sustainable building materials.
Prefab homes often have tighter seams and energy-efficient features, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, metal roofs are commonly used, which are more eco-friendly and energy-efficient than traditional asphalt shingles.
Resale Value of a Prefab House
Prefab homes have a similar resale value to stick-built homes. The location of the home plays a significant role in determining its value, just like with traditional homes. A great location will boost the resale value more than any other factor. Curb appeal, renovations, and other factors also contribute to the resale value.
It's important to note that the resale value of prefab homes depends on various factors such as location, quality, and market conditions. Generally, the resale values between prefab and stick-built homes are roughly equal.
Is a Prefab Home Worth It?
Prefab homes offer cost savings of around 15% compared to stick-built homes. They also have a shorter construction timeline, making them an attractive option for many buyers. Prefab homes appreciate in value similar to traditional homes, so there's no additional risk involved. Home insurance premiums and mortgage options are the same for prefab and stick-built homes.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in a prefab home depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the affordability, construction timeline, and customization options to determine if a prefab home is the right choice for you.
(Image: Wheelhaus)