This resource, published by NeighborWorks America in partnership with Next Step, provides nonprofit organizations and local leaders with practical tools to understand, advocate for, and implement modern manufactured housing (also known as factory-built housing) as a solution to the affordable housing crisis.
Featured Tools & Presentations
NeighborWorks and Next Step created two tailored PowerPoint presentations:
- Nonprofit Board Presentation: Makes the case for integrating factory-built housing into affordable housing strategies.
- Community Stakeholder Presentation: Supports outreach to planning boards, advisory councils, and neighborhood associations.
Both are designed to overcome stigma, correct outdated perceptions and build local buy-in. Some of the topics the presentations will help you explain include:
What Is Manufactured Housing & Why Does It Matter?
Manufactured homes are energy-efficient, factory-built residences constructed to federal HUD standards. They offer a high-quality, lower-cost alternative to site-built homes, helping expand housing access in urban, suburban and rural communities.
Key Benefits:
- Up to 20% lower construction costs per square foot
- Faster build and installation timelines
- Custom design features such as porches, garages, and high-end interiors
- ENERGY STAR®-rated whole-home systems
- Potential for property appreciation when well-maintained
- Modern CrossMod™ models are eligible for conventional financing (MH Advantage®, CHOICEHome®)
How to Launch a Manufactured Housing Program
Some steps for Housing Developers:
- Engage a Manufacturer or Retailer: Organizations can either partner with retailers for turnkey delivery or become licensed retailers to control the full development process.
- Understand Zoning Laws: Collaborate with local officials to address restrictive zoning or update outdated codes referencing “mobile homes.”
- Select the Right Product: Based on site conditions and financing goals, choose between single-section, multi-section, or CrossMod™ models.
- Build Strategic Partnerships:
- Local governments and planning departments
- Housing finance agencies and CDFIs
- Retailers and manufacturers
- Peer nonprofit developers with proven MH success
Additional Resources Available in the Guide
- Manufactured Housing: Blueprint for Affordability & Community Impact: A primer for nearly all topics related to the use of manufactured housing as an affordable housing tool.
- Nonprofit Board PowerPoint Presentation: This presentation helps you educate boards about the advantages of pursuing manufactured housing as an affordable housing strategy in their communities.
- Community Stakeholder PowerPoint Presentation: This presentation helps you educate planning councils, local officials and the broader community about the advantages of manufactured housing as an affordable housing strategy.
