Myrtle Beach Sun News, SC
10-14-06
Stick-built homes not only affordable option
By Meredith Waldrop
Re "Hot new lower end market?" editorial Sept. 24:
The article rightly points out that working people need more housing options
beyond renting and cheap condos. The article disregarded the importance of
manufactured homes as a major supplier of affordable housing.
Studies by major universities, including University of Michigan and East Carolina
University, found that contrary to myth, manufactured homes can appreciate
under the same circumstances as site-built homes when placed in a good
location and well-maintained.
The studies also dispelled the myth that manufactured homes have a negative
impact on surrounding property values.
Homeowners are ensured that a manufactured home is a long-term, sound
investment. A study at Iowa State University proves the life expectancy of a
manufactured home is comparable to a new site-built home. Dependable
dealerships give customers accurate appraisals and maintenance information
about their home.
Manufactured homes are the only economical and feasible solution to such a
widespread need for housing. Manufactured homes provide affordable
residences to 365,000 families within South Carolina. Well over three-fourth of
today's manufactured homes sold in South Carolina are multisection. New design
standards make it hard to distinguish manufactured homes from other site-built
homes.
We can provide for the needs of many by taking a more progressive stance
toward this form of affordable housing.
The writer is communications director of the Manufactured Housing Institute of
South Carolina in Columbia.