Prefab Fore: Manufactured Housing Prioritizes Next-Gen Energy Efficiency within Mobile Home Industry - EnergyTech
Manufactured homes, accounting for nearly 95,000 units annually and around 10% of new single-family housing starts, play a vital role in the U.S. housing market, with increasing demand for energy-efficient features. According to a 2021 NAHB report, over 80% of buyers prioritize ENERGY STAR-certified windows, appliances, and lighting. Modern sustainable manufactured homes now integrate low-VOC materials and recycled components, enhancing both environmental impact and occupant health. Champion Homes recently launched its EcoWise series—designed to meet the DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home standards—offering high-performance insulation, smart thermostats, and ENERGY STAR appliances like Whirlpool washers and Rheem water heaters. Available in the Northeast, EcoWise homes aim to reduce or eliminate annual energy use, providing both comfort and cost savings. Additionally, research groups like the Electric Power Research Institute are advancing net-zero-ready models, and platforms like Mobilehomesell.com rank top energy-efficient lines such as Clayton’s Satisfaction model and the Mon Reve. Manufactured housing continues to evolve toward greener, more efficient living.
Since 2012 Manufactured Homes Have Appreciated in Value Faster than Site-Built Homes - manufacturedhomes.com
A recent analysis of Federal Housing Financing Agency (FHFA) data by the Urban Institute dispels the myth that manufactured homes do not appreciate in value as much as site-built homes. The report reveals that between 2000 and 2024, manufactured homes appreciated at nearly identical rates to site-built homes, growing approximately 5% annually. Between 2000 and 2024, site-built homes appreciated 212.6%, while manufactured homes followed closely at 211.8%. This data underscores the financial viability of manufactured housing, which has historically faced negative perceptions and restrictive zoning laws. The analysis highlights how outdated zoning laws and negative stereotypes continue to hinder the potential of manufactured homes as an affordable option. Legislative changes in states like California, Maine, and Maryland, which now permit manufactured housing in single-family zones, offer a blueprint for expanding affordable housing options. Increased federal participation in the manufactured housing market could unlock new opportunities for affordable, sustainable housing nationwide.
NKY-based Flagship Communities wins two Awards of Excellence from Manufactured House Institute - Northern Kentucky Tribune
Flagship Communities Real Estate Investment Trust has been awarded the Manufactured Home Community Operator of the Year and Community Impact Project of the Year by the national Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI). The awards recognize Flagship's commitment to providing high-quality and affordable living experiences for residents. The winners were chosen by peers and an independent panel of experts for their leadership and dedication to the manufactured housing industry. The winners included leaders from every sector of manufactured housing, including manufacturers, suppliers, communities, retailers, lenders, and designers. Flagship's Suburban Pointe community was awarded the Community Impact Project of the Year, which included new amenities such as a clubhouse, municipal grade playground, basketball court, soccer field, and dog park, as well as year-round community events and programming. Flagship Chief Investment Officer Nathan Smith expressed pride in the community operator's efforts and expressed gratitude to MHI for the recognition.