Finding the perfect home can be a challenge, but what if your dream house isn't where you want it, but what you want? Relocatable homes offer a unique opportunity to find affordable housing and customize your living space. This guide explores everything you need to know about purchasing and moving houses, covering the process from finding the right property to successfully relocating it to your desired location.
What Does "Houses for Sale to Be Moved" Mean?
This refers to homes that are designed for relocation. These aren't simply houses that could be moved; they're built or adapted specifically for transport, often on a foundation that can be easily separated. These can range from smaller, vintage cottages to larger, more modern structures. The key is their inherent portability, which opens up exciting possibilities for homeowners.
What Types of Houses Can Be Moved?
Several types of homes are suitable for relocation:
- Modular Homes: These homes are constructed off-site in sections and then assembled on your property. They're inherently designed for transport and are often more affordable than traditionally built houses.
- Manufactured Homes (Mobile Homes): While technically not always designed for long-distance relocation, many manufactured homes can be moved with the right preparation and permits.
- Vintage/Historic Homes: Older, charming houses are sometimes put up for sale with the understanding they need to be moved to a new location. This offers a unique chance to own a piece of history.
- Tiny Houses: Their small size makes tiny houses exceptionally easy and inexpensive to transport.
How Much Does it Cost to Move a House?
The cost of moving a house varies dramatically based on several factors:
- Size and weight of the house: Larger and heavier houses cost significantly more to move.
- Distance of relocation: Longer distances increase transportation costs and potentially require more specialized equipment.
- Accessibility of the move: Difficult terrain, narrow roads, or other access challenges can add to the expense.
- Necessary repairs or renovations: You may need to make repairs or modifications to the house before it can be moved safely.
- Permits and legal fees: Obtaining the necessary permits and dealing with legal matters will add to your overall costs.
You should expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a small structure to tens of thousands or even more for a larger, more complex house. Always obtain multiple quotes from reputable house moving companies.
What Permits Do I Need to Move a House?
Moving a house requires navigating a complex web of permits and regulations. These vary by location, but typically include:
- Building permits: You’ll need permits to move the house to the new location and to ensure it complies with all building codes.
- Transportation permits: These cover the actual transport of the house, often including special permits for oversized loads.
- Utility permits: You'll need to work with utility companies to disconnect and reconnect services at both the old and new locations.
- Zoning permits: Check your local zoning regulations to make sure moving a house to your chosen location is permitted.
It’s crucial to start the permitting process well in advance, as securing all the necessary approvals can take considerable time.
What are the Advantages of Buying a House to Be Moved?
- Affordability: Often, relocating a house proves significantly cheaper than building a new home or purchasing an existing house in the same desirable area.
- Unique Character: Relocatable houses frequently possess unique architectural details and charm, offering a distinct alternative to cookie-cutter new builds.
- Customization: You have the opportunity to customize the house before it’s moved or after it’s installed at the new location.
- Sustainability: Repurposing an existing structure contributes to sustainable living practices.
- Location Flexibility: You can find the perfect plot of land and then bring the home to it, rather than being constrained by available housing in a specific area.
What are the Disadvantages of Buying a House to Be Moved?
- Unexpected Costs: Moving a house is a complex process, and unexpected costs can easily arise.
- Time Commitment: The entire process can be very time-consuming, from finding the right house and securing permits to overseeing the move and final installation.
- Potential Damage: There’s always a risk of damage to the house during transportation.
- Foundation Requirements: Ensuring the house's foundation is suitable for the new location is crucial.
- Finding Qualified Movers: It is essential to find a reputable house moving company with experience in relocating structures of your size and type.
Buying a house to be moved presents a unique opportunity for those willing to navigate the complexities of the process. Careful planning, thorough research, and choosing reputable professionals are crucial for a successful outcome. Remember to always consult with local authorities and specialists to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and to minimize potential risks.
