Frequently Asked Questions

What is a modular home?

A modular home is built in sections in a controlled factory environment and then set on a permanent foundation at the home site. Once installed, it’s completed just like a traditional new construction home and meets or exceeds all local and state building codes.

Is a modular home the same as a manufactured or mobile home?

No. These homes are not manufactured or mobile homes. They are permanently placed on a foundation and are considered real property, just like a site-built home.

Are modular homes lower quality than site-built homes?

Not at all. Building in a controlled environment allows for consistent inspections, precision construction, and less exposure to weather during the build process.

Can I customize my home?

Yes. Our homes are semi-custom, meaning we start with proven floor plans and customize within structural and engineering parameters. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of floor plans, layouts, finishes, and upgrades.

Are these homes energy efficient?

Yes. Homes are built with modern insulation standards, efficient windows, and energy-conscious systems designed for comfort and long-term savings.

How long does it take to build a home?

Our home planners move at your pace during the planning phase. Once plans are finalized and the down payment is made, your home is typically completed and ready for move-in within 6–7 months, depending on weather and site conditions.

Who is my main point of contact?

You’ll work with a Home Planner during planning and then transition to a Construction Manager once construction begins.

How do you communicate updates?

We communicate through scheduled meetings, email, and phone to keep information clear and documented.

Is the home built off-site inspected?

Yes. Homes are inspected during factory construction and again after the home is set and completed on-site.

Who pulls permits and coordinates inspections?

Griffith Homebuilders pulls all required permits and coordinates inspections as part of our full-service role.

Do you follow local codes and covenants?

Yes. All homes are built to applicable state and local codes and must comply with subdivision covenants and HOA requirements.

What type of foundation is used?

Homes are placed on permanent, poured concrete foundations, which may include full basements or crawl space foundations depending on the design and site.

Do you build on slabs?

No. Our homes are engineered for crawlspace or full basement foundations.

Does the base price include site costs?

No. The base price includes the following:

• Modular Package: modular home with all standard features, delivered to owner’s building site, home set on foundation, all sales tax is included.
• Basement package: excavation, 8’ basement walls, concrete floor, waterproofing, and drain tile
• Garage package: 24’ x 24’ attached garage with concrete foundation and walls, 16’ x 7’ garage door with opener, open stud finish, lighting, and outlets
• Finish package: furnace and AC (95% efficiency / 14 SEER), complete interior plumbing and electrical, finished interior and exterior of the home, and rain gutters

Are model homes standard?

Model homes include both standard features and upgrades. A detailed pricing sheet isavailable to show what is included and what was added.

Do prices change after we sign?

Pricing is guaranteed once a construction agreement and required deposit are in place, unless the buyer requests changes.

What if material or labor costs increase?

Once under contract, pricing is protected unless buyer-requested changes are made.

Can we change things after we sign?

Minor changes may be possible; however, structural and major design changes must be finalized before prints are approved to avoid delays, rework, or cost increases.

Are site costs included in the price of the home?

Yes. After completing a complimentary site visit, we evaluate your property and build in the appropriate site and utility allowances specific to your location and build. These allowances are then included in your overall price to provide clearer expectations upfront.

Does Griffith Home Builders handle site work like septic, water, and electrical hookups?

Yes. While bringing water and electricity to the property is the homeowner’s responsibility, Griffith Home Builders takes it from there. We coordinate and complete the remaining installation and hookups, so your home is move-in ready.

Can homes be built on rural land or acreage?

Yes. Many of our homes are built on rural properties and acreages throughout Iowa and Nebraska. We’re happy to help evaluate site access, utilities, and overall suitability.

Can you build on any lot?

Most lots are buildable, but site conditions, zoning, covenants, and utilities must be reviewed first.

Are modular homes harder to finance?

No. Financing is very similar to traditional new construction. Most buyers use a construction-to-permanent loan, and the key is working with lenders who understand new construction.

How much do I need for a down payment for a loan?

Down payment requirements vary, but many buyers have more flexibility than expected. Some loan programs allow as little as 3.5% down, and VA options may be available for eligible buyers. Land ownership or land equity may also reduce the amount of cash needed.

Can I use my land as a down payment?

Yes. If you already own your lot—or own part of it—the value of that land may count as equity toward your loan, helping reduce or eliminate a traditional cash down payment.

Will the home appraise like a site-built home?

Yes. Homes are appraised as real estate using comparable homes in the area, not as manufactured housing.

When do mortgage payments begin?

Typically, interest-only payments are made during construction. Full mortgage payments usually begin once the home is complete and the loan converts to permanent financing.

Is there a final walk-through?

Yes. A pre-closing final walk-through is scheduled to review the home, systems, and warranty process.

What does the warranty cover?

We provide a one-year builder warranty covering workmanship and materials per our warranty guidelines.

Who is Griffith Home Builders?

Griffith Home Builders is a full service, general contractor specializing in new construction modular homes, offering a guided, efficient building experience from planning through Move-in.

Do I need to hire my own general contractor?

No. Griffith Homebuilders is a full-service modular home builder and licensed general contractor. We manage the entire project from planning through completion.

Can buyers supply materials or contractors?

No. To maintain quality, warranty coverage, and schedule control, all work and materials must remain within our scope.

Do you help with land selection?

Yes. Whether you already own land or are still looking, we can help review zoning, utilities, access, and site considerations.

Can you help with financing?

Yes. While we are not a lender, we work closely with trusted lenders and are happy to connect you with professionals experienced in new construction financing.

How do I know if Griffith Homebuilders is the right fit for me?

We are best suited for buyers who value a streamlined process, clear pricing, and professional project management. If you’re looking to self-manage, supply your own trades, or build fully custom without defined parameters, we may not be the best fit.

What sets Griffith Home Builders apart?

We focus on:

• Clear communication and guidance
• Streamlined timelines
• Trusted lender and trade partnerships
• Quality craftsmanship and finishes
• Making the building process feel manageable and transparent

Why do clients choose Griffith Homebuilders?

Clients choose us for our experience, full-service approach, transparent pricing, and ability to manage the entire build process—so they don’t have to.