If you are planning to buy a mobile home, manufactured home, or modular home in the near future, there is one critical step you should take before closing escrow: get a mobile home inspection. Why is a mobile home inspectionso important? There are many reasons, but below are the top ten reasons every mobile home buyer should have their prospective mobile or manufactured home professionally inspected.
1. Know What You Are Buying
A mobile home inspection provides a detailed written report with photos that identifies existing or potential problems with the home. From mobile home plumbing to mobile home roofing, you deserve to know exactly what you are buying before committing to the purchase.
2. Be Safe
There may be safety issues you are not aware of, such as a gas leak, electrical hazards, or a deteriorating porch or steps. A licensed mobile home inspector can identify these risks and help ensure the home is safe for occupancy.
3. Negotiate the Purchase Price
If a mobile home inspection reveals $1,000 or more in necessary repairs, this information should be addressed before closing escrow. Inspection findings and estimated repair costs can be used to negotiate a lower purchase price or require repairs prior to sale.
4. Prevent Future Problems
Some issues may not be visible to the seller or buyer but can develop into costly repairs if left unresolved. A thorough manufactured home inspection can catch small problems early, preventing larger issues down the road.
5. Save Money
Once escrow closes, the mobile home — and all of its problems — becomes your responsibility. Investing in a mobile home inspection before purchase can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs.
6. Educate Yourself
If you have never owned a mobile home or manufactured home, you may not fully understand how these homes are built or which issues are most common. Meeting with a licensed manufactured home inspector gives you valuable insight into ownership and maintenance.
7. Know What’s Possible
A professional manufactured home inspection also provides an opportunity to discuss potential upgrades. Buyers often ask about kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, flooring upgrades, or other improvements. Knowing your options upfront helps with long-term planning.
8. Get Repairs Completed Before Moving In
If issues are identified during the mobile home inspection, you can negotiate with the seller to have repairs completed before you move in. This can significantly reduce stress and avoid immediate out-of-pocket expenses.
9. Don’t Buy a Lemon
In some cases, an inspection may reveal that a mobile home has far more issues than expected. When that happens, it may be better to walk away and find a manufactured home in better condition with fewer problems.
10. Peace of Mind
For a flat inspection fee of just $200, a mobile home inspection provides invaluable peace of mind. Compared to the cost of unforeseen repairs, the investment is minimal — and the confidence it provides is priceless.

