How to Finance a Manufactured Home in California
August 6, 2025
Manufactured homes, also called mobile homes, offer an affordable entry into homeownership—especially in California, where housing costs are getting steeper every day. The median mortgage payment in California is between $3500 to $4000, and that’s not attainable for everyone.
Manufactured homes are a great alternative, but they can require a more complex financing process. Here's what you need to know: the types of loans available, qualification requirements, local California programs, and how to make an educated choice.
Understanding Your Different Loan Options
Home Only (Chattel) Loans
If the home is on leased land—for example, in a mobile home park—or is not permanently affixed, your financing will be considered personal property instead of real estate. This usually requires a chattel loan. Here at Triad, that means our Home Only Program is likely the best option for financing. We work to provide flexible financing for new or pre-owned manufactured homes, and you can find competitive rates even without buying the land it’s affixed to.
Land + Home Loan
If you’re planning on buying both a manufactured home as well as the land it sits on, Triad’s all-in-one loan option makes it easy by combining financing for both into one simple package. You’ll make just one monthly payment, which keeps things straightforward and simple.
This is a great choice if you're looking for long-term stability and want your home to be considered real property—just like a traditional site-built home. That means more flexibility, potential tax benefits, and a financing process that feels familiar and manageable.
LandPlus
Already own a piece of land and ready to place a manufactured home on it? Triad’s LandPlus loan is a smart option that lets you use the land you own—instead of cash—as your down payment. Whether the land was gifted, inherited, or you already own it outright, this loan can work well for you.
It offers many of the perks of a home-only loan, like low closing costs and a quick closing process, plus added flexibility with low down payment options. No title insurance is required—just a simple title search or land appraisal to confirm value. It’s a great way to turn your land into your future home site—without stretching your budget.
A Step-by-Step Checklist
Step 1: Assess Property Situation
Do you own the land? Is the home permanently affixed and compliant with HUD foundation codes?
○ If yes → LandPlus or Land + Home Loan Programs
○ If no → Home Only / Chattel Loan Programs
Step 2: Gather Documents
Collect your proof of income, credit score, and down payment funds. This may include proof of ownership for any land you want to build on.
Step 3: Apply with Specialists
Contact lenders experienced in manufactured housing, like the experts at Triad. They understand the paperwork and can help you with the approval process.
Step 4: Compare Terms
Compare different interest rates, loan terms, and closing costs. Look for the overall pros and cons of each type of loan, as well as the best rates you can find in this current market.
Financing a manufactured home in California comes down to understanding your property situation, credit profile, and long-term goals. If you’re able to, owning the land and permanently affixing your home could open the door to more affordable real estate loan options and long-term stability.
Work with experienced and reputable California lenders like Triad Financial Services that know the nuances of manufactured home financing to make the process smoother. Preparing your credit, income documents, and certifications ahead of time will help you secure better terms.