5 things to look for in manufactured homes for sale in Florida

When you're searching for manufactured homes for sale in Florida, you're not just looking for a place to live. You're investing in comfort, affordability and lifestyle. With Florida’s year-round sunshine, beautiful communities and growing interest in manufactured housing, now is a perfect time to explore your options.

But how do you know what to look for when making your choice? Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a retiree exploring 55+ communities in Florida, or someone simply looking for affordable Florida homes, we’ve outlined five key features to consider before making your move.

What are manufactured homes (vs. mobile homes)?

Manufactured homes are not the same as the old-fashioned “mobile homes” you may remember from decades ago.

Manufactured homes are built to strict U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards in a controlled factory environment. They’re built on a frame with wheels, but once they are delivered to their location and placed on a more permanent foundation, they’re not meant to be moved again.

The term mobile homes refers to homes built before 1976 (before HUD regulations), and many consider it a bit outdated.

These both differ from modular homes, which are also built in a factory but are instead delivered in “modules” and assembled on site following local, state and regional building codes.

1. Location, location, location

Now that you know the difference and are ready to consider a manufactured home, it’s time to start making a few more decisions. First up? Location. In Florida, location really is everything. Whether you prefer a beach town, a bustling city or a quiet retirement retreat, choosing the right area will enhance your quality of life.

Beach towns in Florida

For some, there’s no other reason to move to Florida than to be close to the golden sands and clear blue surf. At Garber Communities, we understand that. We have manufactured home communities that allow you to catch a sunrise on the Atlantic or a sunset on the Gulf. From artsy New Smyrna Beach to quaint New Port Richey, you have great options beachside.

Small town charm

For some, moving to a manufactured home means retirement, and retirement means slowing down and taking it easy. There are so many great small towns in Florida to do just that. These are places where you know your neighbor, the neighborhood café knows your order, and there’s no rush to do anything. Lake Placid, Florida, lives up to its name, and DeLand is quintessential small town.

City resources

Sometimes, it’s convenient to be close to the bright lights of the big city. Whether you want to be close to the highway for easy travel, near hospitals or employment centers, or near entertainment options, Florida offers plenty of places to stay connected. Check out St. Cloud to be near Orlando’s famous theme parks, DeLand to be near Orlando, or New Port Richey just up the road from Tampa.

Other things to consider when choosing a Florida community:

• Distance to beaches, hospitals and grocery stores
• Proximity to major highways or public transit
• School district ratings (for families)

2. Community amenities and lifestyle perks

One of the biggest draws of manufactured homes for sale in Florida is the variety of retirement communities and family-friendly neighborhoods that offer much more than just a house. Garber Communities offers some of the most desirable 55+ communities in Florida, combining comfort and convenience with a real sense of belonging.

Who are manufactured homes designed for?

Some communities are geared toward retirees, while others are family-focused or pet-friendly. In 55+ communities in Florida, you'll often find fitness spaces, social clubs and quiet streets. On the other hand, all-ages communities may feature playgrounds, basketball courts, and kid-friendly events.

Tip: Always ask about community rules, pet policies and guest access so you know if the lifestyle is the right fit for you and your loved ones.

Maintenance

Another perk of a manufactured home community is that they may be lower maintenance. Most communities handle the upkeep and care of common spaces like swimming pools and dog parks. Some also offer landscaping or lawn mowing. It’s worth asking so you know what is covered by the community.

Amenities

One benefit of a manufactured home community is that you have access to great amenities like an apartment building, but you still own your own space. These might include swimming pools, shared community clubhouses, fitness centers, pickleball or shuffleboard courts, and more.

Features to look for

• Swimming pools, clubhouses and walking trails
• On-site maintenance and landscaping services
• Community events and social gatherings
• Proximity to parks, golf courses and more

3. Energy efficiency and construction standards

As mentioned, modern manufactured homes aren’t your grandma’s mobile home! They are often built with energy efficiency in mind that helps reduce utility costs, which is a big plus in Florida's hot climate.

Home aspects that can help with energy efficiency:

• ENERGY STAR® rated appliances
• Insulated roofing and skirting
• Energy efficient windows and doors
• High-quality HVAC systems

Some of Garber Communities’ homes offer energy efficient elements perfect for Florida’s weather. Some are even brand new! Learn more about manufactured home options.

Why energy efficiency matters in Florida

• Florida’s heat and humidity make air conditioning essential for most of the year, so an energy-efficient home can lead to substantial long-term savings
• According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), residential electricity consumption in Florida is among the highest in the nation due to heavy A/C use
• ENERGY STAR® certification can reduce utility bills by up to 30 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy

4. Modern design options and customization

Today’s manufactured homes come in a range of stylish layouts, from cozy 2-bed, 1-bath plans to spacious 3-bedroom homes with walk-in closets and gourmet kitchens.

They also feature modern touches, like granite countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring, layouts with open concept living spaces and smart home capabilities. Another great thing about manufactured homes? You own it, so unlike a rental, you can customize your own space to fit your taste. Garber’s homes reflect the latest trends. See what's popular in 2025.

5. Cost

Buying a manufactured home is typically more affordable than purchasing a traditional single-family home, but it’s still important to understand all the factors that go into such a big purchase.

How much do manufactured homes in Florida cost?

One of the most appealing aspects of manufactured homes is the price, especially compared to traditional site-built homes.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average price of a new manufactured home in the U.S. in 2024 was around $123,300, compared to more than $514,500 for a site-built, single-family home. Even when you take out the cost of the land (which is one reason manufactured homes are more affordable!), single family homes were right near $400,000.

Other factors to consider

When purchasing a manufactured home, there are many factors at play. Interest rates can be slightly higher for manufactured homes. You also need to factor in lot rent, which can include property taxes and HOA fees, as well as utilities.

With manufactured homes, too, buyers can often put down more of a down payment, which can bring down the mortgage payment. Get out your pencil and notepad and do the math. Manufactured homes aren’t the right choice for every buyer, but they can often make a lot of sense when everything is considered.

Ready to find your perfect manufactured home in Florida?

With energy-efficient designs, resort-style amenities, affordability and prime locations, there’s never been a better time to explore manufactured homes for sale in Florida. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or starting fresh, knowing what to look for will help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

Need help finding the right fit? Visit Garber Communities to browse available listings, learn about local communities, and get expert guidance every step of the way.

Quick checklist: What to look for in a Florida manufactured home

1. Location—Near the beach, near a city, or relaxing retreat?
2. The community—What’s the vibe of where you want to be? What amenities are important?
3. Energy efficiency—Many manufactured homes today are built with your bill in mind!
4. Modern touches—These homes can have the upgrades you’re used to.
5. Cost—There are many factors to consider, but a manufactured home might make sense for your budget.

Need help getting started? Visit our website or call (407) 949-8629 to learn more about your options for Florida manufactured homes.

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