Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a systems built modular home?
A: Modular homes are constructed in a climate controlled environment using state of the art engineering and assembly line techniques. D.B. Homes uses the same brand name building materials and builds to the same building code requirements as many local "stick builders". State or independent third party inspectors carefully inspect each home we build. Modular homes are shipped to the building site on two or more carriers, erected on the foundation by a qualified set crew and completed by D.B. Homes. Once completed, modular homes are indistinguishable from "site built" homes.

Q: How does a D.B. modular home differ from a "manufacturered or mobile home"?
A: Manufacturered homes, sometimes referred to as mobile homes and sectionals, are built to the HUD Code, a national code for manufactured housing. The HUD Code, unlike conventional state building codes used by modular homes and site builders, requires manufactured homes to be built on non-removable steel chassis. Many neighborhoods exclude manufactured homes but accept modular homes because they are built to the same code as site-built homes.

Q: I hear a lot about "Green" building. Are modular homes green?
A: Green building is a practice of using sustainable materials and designs in new construction. Yes, modular homes are by their very nature, green. Assemnly in an enclosed indoor environment contributes to reduced waste of materials at the factory and at the job site, lessens the environmental impact on the land and the community where the house is being delivered, and allows for a tighter built structure to maximize energy efficiency--all of which are key components to green building standards.

Q: Can I build a custom plan of my own design?
A: Computer aided drafting (CAD), allows for precision customization of your floor plan design. However, shipping restrictions and production constraints can affect the design. If you have a plan picked out, we suggest that you submit it for approval or for changes that will enable us to build your home. D. B. Homes also has a complete portfolio of floor plans, designs and elevations that can be modified. Modifications are normally less expensive than a custom built design. Our goal is to turn your dream ome into a reality.

Q: How long does it take to build a modular home?
A: The time it take to build your home varies by season and D.B. Homes' order "backlog". That being said, one of the advantages of building a modular home is speed of construction. When we place your order it will go into a backlog of homes to be built, which typically runs 5 to 10 weeks. While your home is on order the site work on your building lot will be completed. On average, a modular home consisting of two modules will take about 4 to 6 weeks to finish the home. Our time frame depends on the amount of additional site work, such as garages, porches or decks that are to be built, and our backlog of other homes to finish. You can move into your new modular homes quicker than a typical site-built home.

Q: It is a good time to build a new home?
A: It certainly is. Inflation is down and interest rates are still very reasonable. There are faster and attractive new ways to finance your new home, just check out our finance page for more information on some of the options available. And new home ownership is still a good income tax break, because you can deduct the interest on your mortgage payment. Your monthly mortgage payment may also be less thant you are currenlty paying for rent. If you also are a First Time Homeowner, be sure to ask us about the $8,000 federal tax credit and to see if you qualify!

Q: How much does a DB home cost?
A: Since all of our homes are custom-built, the price will be determined by the specifications you select for your new home, and by work done by D.B. Homes. If you have a particular budget and type of house in mind, please contact us and we can assist you in pricing and find a home and floor plan that you want. Because of this, we do not include a price list in our packages or online.

Q: Are modular homes energy efficient?
A: Yes. D.B. Homes are ENERGY STARŪ Labled and committed to using energy efficient building methods and materials. Our homes are built standard with 2x6 exterior walls and R-19 insulation, R-30 blown-in ceiling insulation, warm edge thermopane low e-glass windows, and insulated exterior doors.

Q: Do all modular homes looks alike?
A: No, and unless you were to see the house delivered and assembled, you might not guess it's a modular home. Because computer aided design programs are used to draw plans to your specifications, or to modify a floor plan to suit your needs, most floors plans can be turned into a modular home.

Q: Will banks finance a modular home?
A: Yes. Most banks, appraisers, and insurance companies treat modular homes the same way they do site built homes. Ask the mortgage brokers and banks in your area to explain how they finance modular homes or check out our finance page for local banks we work with.

Q: Can I save money building a modular home?
A: Construction costs for a modular home are in most cases less per square foot than for a similiar site-built home. And there are other cost-saving features: 1) Many modular homes are very efficient, which helps reduce your heating and cooling costs. 2) Your home will probably be ready to move in much sooner than if you wait for a builder to construct a house on site, causing less interest to accrue on your mortgage loan.

Q: Can I do some of the work on my own?
A: If you are a "jack-of-all-trades", have friends that are, or are willing to do the subcontracting, then our Owner/Builder Program may be for you. It allows you to do some work and save money.

Q: Do your homes come with a warranty?
A: Yes, all of our homes come with a full one-year parts and labor warranty from the manufacturer. Along with this, DB Homes also offers a full one-year parts and labor warranty on all on-site work. Finally, we also offer a 10 warranty through RWC. To learn more about the RWC warranty, visit RWC's website.

Still have a question about modular homes? Contact us at 1.866.794.2626. Or check out these useful resources:

The Home Store is the largest builder of custom modular homes in New England, New York's Hudson Valley, and Long Island.

The Modular Home Book Resource Site – An essential guide covering all aspects of modular home building and design, from choosing a dealer to financing. Ideal book for dealers, contractors, or new home customers looking to buy a modular house or addition.