Here are answers to questions about factory built homes, our communities, community terms, financial matters, the purchasing process, owners' rights and other topics.

Q. What financial advantages do factory built housing owners have?

A. Substantial cost and time savings make factory built homes attractive to individuals and families. Construction efficiencies are passed on to our buyers, who move in to their factory built home at a far lower cost than for comparable site-built homes. And homeowners don't buy the land -- eliminating a significant cost and property tax obligation.

Q. Are buyers treated as homeowners?

A. Yes. Purchasing a factory built home involves a mortgage loan, just as with any site built home.  Mortgage interest is tax deductible.  Factory built homeowners have all the same rights and responsibilities as site built homeowners.

Q. Who owns the land?

A. The community developer leases the home site to homeowners typically for several years at a time and with automatic renewal. The land under your home cannot be sold.  However, if you wish to sell your home to another buyer, the lease is fully assignable to the new owner.

Residents pay property tax only on garages, porches, decks and sheds -- not on the home itself.

Q. What conveniences are part of the factory built home lifestyle?

A. Carefree condominium-style living is combined with free-standing home ownership for the best of both worlds. Monthly lease payments cover full-time staffing by an on-site Community Manager and Maintenance Technician who handle snow removal, landscaping and beautification of common areas. Emergency pagers are answered around the clock.

Lease payments also entitle owners to trash pickup, clubhouse use and access to community amenities such as a pool and other recreation areas without additional costs. There are no association fees.

Q. What additional benefits come with a Lewis/Klein community?

A. Our full-service role as home seller, community developer and community manager means buyers work exclusively with one team throughout the entire process of finding a home and living at one of our five communities. We stand alongside buyers, who become our Community Managers' neighbors. And because it's in Lewis/Klein's interest to keep each community first-class, home buyers move in with confidence that their home investment is protected.

Q. How soon can I move in?

A. Typically, within a few weeks if you select an available model from our inventory, although motivated potential residents may get in much sooner under ideal conditions. For a home to be built to your specifications, the entire process can wrap up in a month or two. Mortgage approval and site preparation may extend the timetable a few weeks.

Q. Are factory built homes sturdy?

A. Absolutely -- the federal government requires that each home meet a construction code developed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). A local building inspector insures each home is anchored firmly to its foundation.

The HUD code regulates home construction, strength and durability, transportability, fire resistance, safety and energy efficiency. It also sets performance standards for heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems.

Q. What's the difference between a modular home and a manufactured home?

A.The names have become confusing.  Both homes are built in a factory taking advantage of precision and energy efficient construction techniques.  A manufactured home must meet HUD specifications (federal) while a modular home is subject to state building code standards.  There are no practical differences in construction methods and quality.

Q. Is warranty coverage provided?

A. Yes. Lewis/Klein stands firmly behind all homes, whether new or pre-owned. A one-year warranty guarantees prompt no-cost repairs for any problems with structural workmanship, factory-installed plumbing, heating, electrical systems and appliances. Separate warranties also may cover individual appliances.

Q. How do you maintain a quality community?

A. As a veteran developer-manager of high end residential communities Lewis/Klein is dedicated to upholding the highest  standards of appearance, safety and neighborhood integrity. This commitment is a matter of responsibility and good business to protect our assets and maintain residential stability. Detailed written Rules and Regulations are enforced in each community to respect residents' rights and support property values in order to protect your investment.

Q. Do I receive a deed?

A. No, because the land is not part of the property transaction. The home purchase is recorded at the county, just as with any home sale. At closing, you receive, among other documents a Bill of Sale and Land Lease Agreement showing the lot identification number, which is your address.

Q. Is this a good investment?

A. Home ownership traditionally is a proven route to financial stability and building wealth. Demand remains strong for these affordable homes that are easy to maintain and economical to heat or cool.  Though appreciation of any home is affected by market conditions, high standards maintained at a Lewis/Klein community help enhance value for our buyers.