Are you a veteran or active service member wondering if you can use your VA loan benefit to buy a manufactured home? You’re not alone. Many potential buyers are unsure if these types of homes qualify for VA financing. The good news is, they do—but the process involves a few extra steps compared to traditional site-built homes.
This in-depth guide will walk you through the entire process of applying for a VA loan for a manufactured home, from understanding eligibility to closing the loan. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a real estate professional advising clients, this guide has something for you.
What Is a Manufactured Home?
A manufactured home is a factory-built home constructed after June 15, 1976, that complies with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) building standards. These homes are built off-site and transported to the location where they will be occupied.
To qualify for a VA loan, the manufactured home must:
- Be transported in one or more sections
- Have a permanent chassis
- Be affixed to a permanent foundation
- Be classified as real property (not personal property)
Modular vs. Mobile vs. Manufactured
- Mobile homes: Built before June 15, 1976, not eligible for VA loans.
- Manufactured homes: Built post-June 1976 to HUD standards; eligible.
- Modular homes: Built in sections and assembled on-site; generally treated like traditional homes.
Why Consider a VA Loan for a Manufactured Home?
VA loans offer several advantages:
- No down payment required
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive interest rates
- Flexible credit requirements
- Lower closing costs
Compared to FHA or conventional loans, VA loans are often more affordable and accessible, particularly for those with limited savings or average credit.
Example Comparison:
Loan Type |
Down Payment |
PMI |
Min Credit Score |
| VA Loan | $0 | No | 620 (varies) |
| FHA Loan | 3.5% | Yes | 580 |
| Conventional | 5-20% | Yes (if <20%) | 620+ |
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a VA Loan for a Manufactured Home
Step 1: Confirm Your VA Loan Eligibility
Start by obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. This document verifies your service history and entitlement.
How to get your COE:
- Through your VA-approved lender
- Via the eBenefits portal: ebenefits.va.gov
- By mailing VA Form 26-1880 to the VA
Who is eligible?
- Active duty service members
- Veterans
- National Guard and Reserve members
- Surviving spouses
Step 2: Choose a VA-Approved Lender Experienced with Manufactured Homes
Not all lenders process VA loans for manufactured homes. Ensure your lender:
- Is VA-approved
- Offers manufactured home financing
- Has experience with the extra documentation and requirements involved
Pro tip: Ask the lender upfront if they provide VA loans for manufactured homes—many do not.
Step 3: Determine the Type of VA Loan You Need
There are several ways you can use your VA loan benefit with manufactured homes:
- Purchase a manufactured home and lot together
- Buy a manufactured home and place it on land you already own
- Refinance an existing manufactured home loan
Your use case will determine the loan terms, appraisals, and property requirements.
Step 4: Ensure the Home Meets VA and HUD Standards
To qualify, the manufactured home must:
- Be attached to a permanent foundation
- Be titled as real property
- Have a HUD Data Plate and Certification Label (HUD tags)
- Meet VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
Checklist before buying:
NOTE: Homes moved more than once are typically ineligible for VA financing.
Step 5: Submit a Preapproval Application
To get preapproved, you will need to provide:
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Recent pay stubs
- W-2s and/or tax returns
- Bank statements
- Credit score (usually 620+ preferred)
Getting preapproved gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re serious.
Step 6: Find and Inspect the Property
Once preapproved, start searching for properties that:
- Meet VA and HUD requirements
- Are in your approved budget
- Are on owned or purchasable land
Before moving forward:
- Schedule a VA appraisal to assess value and compliance
- Consider a professional home inspection for additional peace of mind
ℹ The VA appraisal is not a substitute for a full inspection. Consider both.
Step 7: Finalize the Loan and Close
Once the appraisal is complete and the property is cleared:
- Your lender will finalize underwriting
- You’ll receive a Closing Disclosure with final terms and costs
- Attend closing to sign documents
- Pay any closing costs (often limited with VA loans)
After this, the home is yours!
Tips to Improve Approval Odds and Experience
- Work with professionals familiar with VA and manufactured home processes
- Use online VA loan calculators to estimate payments
- Budget for site improvements like utility hookups and foundation work
- Prepare for a potentially longer closing process due to added inspections
Helpful Tools and Resources
- VA Loan Calculator – NerdWallet
- How to Request a COE
- VA MPR Guidelines
- HUD Manufactured Housing Standards
Conclusion: Is a VA Loan for a Manufactured Home Right for You?
VA loans can be an excellent way to finance a manufactured home, offering low-cost access to homeownership for veterans and active service members. However, the path is slightly more complex than for traditional homes. By understanding the steps involved and working with the right professionals, you can navigate the process successfully.