There's no difference between Modular and Site-Built homes as far as appraisal and financing. Banks and lending institutions treat both types of construction the same. So do insurance companies.

** Modular homes are built using 2-by-6 or 2-by-4 construction. They have superior insulation rated to R-19 for walls or R-30 for ceilings and tape-and-textrue interior walls. They often incorporate such top-of-the-line features as dual-pane vinyl windows and solid-oak cabinets.

** Floor plans vary. To allow for shipping, each Modular can't be wider than 14 feet or longer than 66 feet. But pieces can be joined to create open spaces that are 28 - even 42 feet wide.

** Modular and Manufactured homes aren't the same. Manufactured homes often are called "mobile homes" and are built according to a different code - the Federal Construction Safety Standards Act. That act requires "mobile homes" to be constructed on a non-removable steel chassis. Many communities have restrictions about where "mobile homes" may be placed. Modular and Site-built homes are constructed according to the Uniform Building Codes required by states, counties and localities and aren't restricted by zoning regulations.