Investing in mobile homes can be a lucrative business venture, but it comes with its own unique set of terminology. As a mobile home investor, understanding these terms is essential to successfully navigating the industry. Here are five key terms every mobile home investor should know.
First up is the "toter," a specialized truck used for transporting, towing, and leveling mobile homes. Equipped with a hydraulic lift, toters are owned by mobile home transport companies and are crucial in moving mobile homes to their next destination.
Another important term is "tongue," the v-shaped metal on the front of a mobile home to which toters attach. The tongue may be permanently welded onto the home or bolted on and off as needed. However, investors should be cautious of rust or damage to welded tongues, as they can pose safety concerns during transportation.
Next on the list is "roof flashing," a sheet of metal sealed onto the roof to prevent water from seeping in between the roof and walls. This is vital in protecting the walls from water damage and mold, which can ultimately destroy the mobile home.
"Heat tape" is also a crucial term to understand. This wrap is used on water lines to prevent freezing and bursting during the winter and is often found throughout the mobile home. There are two main types of heat tape: a cord that wraps around pipes, and a silver coil attached to a plug. It's worth noting that the silver coil tends to last longer than the cord.
Finally, a "vapor barrier" is a plastic mesh placed under the insulation just below the mobile home, covering both ends. This barrier protects pipes from freezing and harmful vapors entering the home. If a vapor barrier is damaged or a water pipe leaks and causes it to sag, it should be replaced with a new one using a staple gun.
Understanding these key terms is essential for mobile home investors when inspecting and repairing mobile homes. It can also help with marketing and selling homes to potential buyers. If any unfamiliar terms arise, don't hesitate to ask questions - knowledge is key in the mobile home investing industry.
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