Qualifications of a Manufactured Home for a VA Loan

By Elouise Davis-Wimbush

Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans provide eligible veterans the opportunity to purchase a home with no down payment. Through VA, homeownership became a reality for many veterans. Eligible veterans receive VA home loans through a private lender, such as a bank or credit union, and VA guarantees the loan amount. The guaranty protects the lender should the homeowner default. Manufactured homes, also known as a mobile home or trailer, are eligible as long as the home meets the criteria. VA defines a manufactured home as a permanent structure that is movable in one or more sections. Traditionally built homes differ in that construction takes place on a construction site. a

To qualify for a Veteran Affairs (VA) loan the applicant must (A) be a veteran with VA loan privileges, (B) use the loan for the purpose of buying a manufactured home, (C) Occupy the home within a reasonable time after purchase, (D) have sufficient income to cover the costs of a manufactured (mobile) home and (E) have acceptable credit.

A manufactured (mobile) home must provide continuous living accommodations for a single family. It must include adequate cooking, sleeping and bathroom facilities for the family. VA loan specifications concerning width and floor space vary depending on the width of the home. Single width mobile home measurements are 10 feet wide with a minimum of 400 feet of floor space. Double width homes must be no less than 20 feet wide with a minimum of 700 feet of floor space. The veteran can place the home on any rented site, or a lot purchased by the veteran and approved by VA.

Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from VA via phone, online or in person. After receipt of the certificate, find a home that meets VA requirements, and then find a lot. Make plans for purchase or rent of the lot. Apply for a VA loan. Remember that VA does not guarantee loan approval. VA guaranteed loans protect the lender should the homeowner default on payments. The applicant must meet the income and credit requirements of the lender.

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