Most areas require permits to alter the land to prepare it for the home, plus installation of the house. Additional permits may be necessary for the utility connections, soil testing and additions to the home, such as a deck, garage or shed. The cost of permits and fees varies by location, but on average, it costs $500 – $5,000. Obviously, the larger the home or the more features it has, the more it costs. If you're unsure about the cost in your area, talk to a local real estate agent or your city's permit department to get ballpark figures. Construction sites aren’t always prepared for a home. For example, if the land needs clearing of trees and debris or leveling, there will be land preparation costs. The cost varies based on the amount of work required to clear the area, but the average price is around $2,750.Permits And Fees
Land Clearing and Preparation
Foundation
Modular homes need a base or foundation to secure it to the land. The type of foundation determines its cost, as does the location. For example, if you want a basem*nt on the home, the foundation will cost more than a slab foundation, just as a larger foundation costs more than a smaller one.
On average, foundation installation costs $7 – $30 per square foot, with more complex foundations on the higher end.
Delivery
The base unit of a modular home plus delivery usually costs around $50 to $100 per square foot. Any additions to the home or necessary work to prepare the area will cost more.
The delivery costs don't include installation, so be sure to keep that in mind when budgeting to build a modular home.
Installation
The cost to install the home is additional, usually costing $5 to $35 per square foot. Installers complete the process in stages, including connecting the pieces, finishing any woodwork inside the home, installing stairs and adding finishing touches.
If there are any particular concerns, installers may charge more to account for the more complex work involved.
Utility Connections
All homes need utility connections to pass code and be livable. However, the cost to hook up each utility differs based on the location, complexity of the installation and number of lines needed.
Modular Home Additions
Modular homes don’t have to be basic. If you want a basem*nt, spiral staircase, shed or any other additions or features, you can add them to the plans, but it increases the cost.
Some common features and additions include a garage, basem*nt, deck, shed or pool.
Sales Tax
If your state charges sales tax, you’ll likely pay it on your modular home. The cost varies by location and the state’s tax rate.
