Buyers seeking affordable housing are increasingly turning to manufactures homes as a resource. July sales were 38% higher than last year and the median sales price was up 11.7%.

According to the Northeast Tennessee Association of Realtors (NETAR), 58 mobile homes sold last month. That accounted for 8% of the region’s total sales and is up 2% from last year.

The Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) says new mobile home sales have increased 15% nationwide so far this year. It attributed the increase to affordability, increased quality and customization, technology advancements such as automated lighting temperature control and security systems are now standard in many new models, and sustainability.

The median sales price of $216,750 was $62,250 less than the regional overall price.

Most mobile home sales last month (18) were in Greene Co. Sullivan (14 sales) and Greene account for over half of total sales last month and during July last year.

The sales and market dynamics are much the same as in the rest of the market, but the trend is favoring sellers.

Last month sellers gave up an average of $9,650 from their asking price during negotiations. That’s down from $12,950 last year.

The same shift exists for the number of mobile homes that saw price reduction before a buyer offer was accepted. The average reduction in July was $17,600. This time last year it was $20,000.

Despite the positive trends, the mobile home industry still faces challenges. Among some, there’s a stigma and misconception that still exists. And the availability of land for new mobile home parks is limited I some areas.

Looking ahead, the future of mobile home sales appears promising. Continued advancements in technology and design, combined with efforts to address regulatory and financing barriers, are expected to drive further growth. As more consumers recognize the benefits of mobile home living, the industry is poised to expand and grow, offering innovative housing solutions for a diverse range of buyers.