Tips for Buying a Pre‑Owned Manufactured Home in Yuma, Arizona
By Mohave Homes
Used manufactured homes in Yuma, AZ offer two unbeatable advantages: an affordable entry point to desert living and move‑in speed that ground‑up construction can’t touch. Yet a great deal only stays great when you know exactly what to look forand what to avoid. Below, we share 12 actionable tips that cover everything from verifying HUD data‑plates and roof condition to choosing the right lender and scheduling the final move to your lot. Whether you’re relocating for Yuma’s sunshine or downsizing for simpler living, these recommendations put you in control.
1. Understand the Yuma Market
- High demand, low inventory: Winter visitors (“snowbirds”) create seasonal spikes. Be ready to act fast when the right unit appears.
- Age of stock: Many pre‑1996 homes lack today’s HUD wind and energy codes. Newer units (2000+) generally command higher resale values but require less retrofitting.
- Land‑lease vs. fee‑simple: Decide early whether you want a space in a managed park or plan to purchase land outright. This choice affects financing and ongoing costs.
For a broad overview of buying anywhere in the state, review our Ultimate Guide to Buying a Manufactured Home in Arizona. Then apply the Yuma‑specific tips below.
2. Verify the HUD Data Plate and Serial Numbers
The HUD data‑plate (usually inside a kitchen cabinet) lists:
- Manufacture date and plant
- Original roof load, wind zone, and heating zone
- Model and serial numbers that match the red “HUD tag” on the exterior
Cross‑check these details against county records to ensure the home hasn’t been altered beyond code. If the plate is missing, request a replacement through the Institute for Building Technology & Safety (IBTS).
3. Conduct a Four‑Point Inspection
- Roof – Look for ponding water, missing shingles, or brittle elastomeric coatings baked by Yuma’s 100°+ summers.
- Plumbing – Poly‑butylene supply lines in 1980s–early 1990s homes are prone to leaks; upgrade to PEX where possible.
- Electrical – Confirm copper wiring and inspect the main panel for recalled Federal Pacific or Zinsco breakers.
- HVAC – An older packaged unit might struggle in the Sonoran heat. Budget for a high‑SEER replacement.
Download our printable checklist in the Home Catalog to bring on your walk‑through.
4. Evaluate the Foundation or Support System
Yuma County allows pier‑and‑pad setups, but FHA/VA financing requires an engineered permanent foundation. Confirm:
- Steel tie‑downs anchored to concrete
- Skirting with proper ventilation to deter pests and dissipate heat
- No evidence of settling or moisture under the home
Need a retrofit? See our article on best skirting options for Arizona.
5. Research Park Rules (If Applicable)
Many Yuma parks are 55+ communities with HOA‑style guidelines. Some restrict home age (e.g., no units older than 15 years) or exterior paint colors. Request written rules before you buy—especially if you plan cosmetic upgrades.
6. Compare Financing Paths for Pre‑Owned Units
- Chattel Loans: Quick approval but higher interest; ideal if you’ll lease a lot.
- Land‑Home Loans: Bundle home plus land; may allow fixed 30‑year terms.
- FHA Title I: Available for homes as old as 1976 with qualifying foundations.
For rate comparisons and credit prep, revisit our deep dive on manufactured‑home financing in AZ & NV.
7. Confirm Title Status and Taxes
Arizona treats a manufactured home as personal property until it’s affixed to land. Make sure:
- The seller can provide an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) title, free of liens.
- Property taxes are current—check the Yuma County Assessor’s site.
Converting title to real property may lower your interest rate; Mohave Homes can coordinate this during closing.
8. Budget for Energy‑Efficiency Upgrades
Yuma records 350+ days of sunshine yearly. Simple improvements pay dividends:
- Install low‑E dual‑pane windows (see our Phoenix window guide).
- Add radiant barrier insulation beneath the roof deck.
- Seal ductwork – leaky ducts can waste up to 30 % of cooled air.
9. Schedule Professional Transport & Setup
Even a short 20‑mile tow from Somerton to Fortuna Foothills requires oversize permits and pilot cars. Our in‑house transport team manages:
- Route planning to avoid low bridges on US‑95
- State escort requirements
- Blocking, leveling, and utility hookups upon arrival
Tip: Schedule summer moves at dawn to beat triple‑digit heat and reduce tire blowout risk.
10. Negotiate Repairs in Writing
Unlike new-home warranties, used units sell “as‑is” unless otherwise stated. Use your inspection report to request:
- HVAC service or replacement allowance
- Roof resealing (budget ≈ $1.25 per sq ft)
- Updated smoke and CO detectors
Add repair terms to the purchase contract to avoid last‑minute surprises.
11. Plan for Post‑Purchase Upgrades
Modern touches boost comfort and resale value:
- Luxury‑vinyl plank flooring (water‑resistant for monsoon storms)
- Smart thermostats compatible with split‑system heat pumps
- Desert‑friendly xeriscaping—see our native‑plants landscaping guide
12. Leverage Mohave Homes’ Pre‑Owned Expertise
From locating clean titles to scheduling FHA foundation certs, our Golden Valley team has helped hundreds of buyers relocate or retrofit pre‑owned units throughout Mohave and Yuma Counties. One recent client saved $18,000 in unexpected park fees thanks to our lot‑lease review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is too old for a used manufactured home?
Homes built after June 15, 1976 comply with HUD safety standards. Lenders and parks often prefer units younger than 20 years, but a well‑maintained older home can still be a solid choice if it passes structural and roof inspections.
Can I move a used home across state lines?
Yes, but you’ll need transport permits for each state plus proof the home meets the destination’s wind zone. Our transport division handles compliance paperwork for Arizona, Nevada, and California routes.
What’s the average cost of a used double‑wide in Yuma?
Depending on year, size, and lot situation, expect $75k–$130k for a 1,400–1,800 sq ft 3‑bed/2‑bath model, plus transport and setup if relocating.
Buying a pre‑owned manufactured home in the Yuma area can be a smart path to affordable desert living—provided you follow a disciplined inspection and financing checklist. Use the tips above as your roadmap, and remember: Mohave Homes is only a phone call away if you need professional guidance.
Disclaimer: Information is accurate as of publication but may change. Always consult licensed inspectors and lenders for the most current requirements.
