How to Get Financing for a Manufactured Home
Manufactured homes are one of the most affordable housing options in today’s market — but financing them works differently than a traditional stick-built home. The type of loan you qualify for depends on factors like whether you own the land, how the home is titled, the age of the home, and whether it’s permanently affixed to a foundation. Many buyers assume manufactured homes can’t be financed at all, which isn’t true — but the rules are more specific and the lender options are more limited.
Here’s what buyers need to know.
1) Land Ownership Matters
If the home is permanently affixed to land you own, you may qualify for a traditional mortgage (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional).
If it’s in a park or on leased land, financing is usually a chattel loan.
2) Home Age & Foundation Are Critical
Most lenders require the home to be built after June 15, 1976 (HUD-code compliant), installed on a permanent foundation, and classified as real property.
3) Loan Types Available
• Conventional mortgage
• FHA loan
• VA loan
• USDA loan
• Chattel loan (park homes or leased land)
4) Down Payments & Credit
• Traditional mortgage: 3%–10% down
• FHA: 3.5% down
• VA / USDA: 0% down
• Chattel: 5%–20% down
Best options usually start around a 620 credit score.
5) Approved Lenders Matter
Not all lenders finance manufactured homes.
Look for FHA, VA, USDA lenders, local credit unions, and specialty manufactured-home lenders.
6) Title & Zoning Issues
The home must have a clean title, legal placement, proper permits, and utility hookups.
7) Rates & Terms
Expect slightly higher rates and shorter loan terms than traditional homes.
Bottom Line?
Yes — you can finance a manufactured home.
But land ownership, foundation type, home age, and lender choice make all the difference.
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