[MindieRose]

Modulars are just stick built houses that are prefabricated. They are much better quality than a doublewide trailer, although a lot of people still use the terms interchangably. Modulars conform to HUD standards and are drywalled as a standard, and typically come with higher pitched roofs and made with better quality materials. My husband and I made the mistake when we first married and bought a new doublewide. While we got lucky and never had a problem with it other than the fact that everything was just very cheap in it, many people experience roof leaks very early on as well as plumbing issues and other structural and cosmetic issues. Next fall or perhaps the spring after, we are most likely buying a large modular. We will be putting it on a walkout basement, which is always a great idea, although may not be possible for you depending on your location. We will also be putting a 2 or 3 stall attached garage on, not only for convenience, but it adds to the value of the home.
Make sure that you upgrade carpet and insulation. These are things that are not always the best quality, but usually always have an upgrade option. Also, do NOT forget that your house is warrentied. I think you only have a year for cosmetic and smaller things, and maybe 5-10 for major structural, so do not hesitate to call the company with every little concern. Something that you may not think would be covered, probably is. And finally, shop around for quality. Don't just go with a house because you fell in love with the floor plan. Modular companies can very greatly in quality, and most places you go are brokers, so they usually carry a few different brands. This gives you a couple of advantages. 1. You can call around to different businesses that probably offer the same brands and floor models, and compare prices and any deals or sales they have going on. 2. You can get brochures for all the different brands of homes which usually include all of their standards that are included with the home such as what brand windows are in the home, carpet, plumbing fixtures, cupboards, as well as that all important warrenty.
You can afford to be very picky right now because modular sales are way down, so it will be a very competitive market. Don't get sold on the first one you find. Really press for upgrades in the home without them marking up the price! Also, lol, sorry I keep thinking of things, make sure it is free delivery and set up. Most should be, but this will insure you do not have a suprise charge!
Good luck!!