Meet Lan!

Lan

Lan Nguyen began her career in manufactured housing with Advantage Homes as an admin in December of 1999, and became a sales agent in the summer of 2000. Throughout her 17 years’ experience, her hard work and first class customer service allowed to be among one of the top performing agents in Santa Clara County. Lan brings an unparalleled skill set to manufactured housing; not only does she hold a B.S. in Business Administration, but she is also a Licensed Realtor®.

When asked why she transitioned to Alliance, Lan indicated that she “admires Alliance’s creativity and innovation on new home designs.” She sees this new opportunity as a positive move toward advancing her career in manufactured homes, as she is “now working with the leader of this industry.”

When working with Lan, you can expect to receive experience, consistent communication, and strong attentiveness to details. As a top producer, she is knowledgeable regarding all things manufactured housing, from loans to community expectations to HCD guidelines, and she has cater to each client’s circumstances to enable a successful approval process.

Fluent in both English and Vietnamese, Lan is prepared to go above and beyond your needs to help you with your next housing change. Contact Lan today at (408) 215-0082 or Lan@AllianceMH.com for your manufactured housing inquiries!

Here are a few testimonials from Lan’s clients, via Yelp:

Thank you Lan Nguyen for your excellence services in helping us buy a brand new mobile home from Skyline!

We first met with Lan at an open house and discussed with her our plan.  At first, we wanted to purchase a new home so ended up on a waitlist for available space at the mobile home park we wanted.  A little of over one month, Lan called us back about the good news that space has opened up.  We worked with her to start customizing our home and then realized later that this didn’t fit our needs anymore and we decided to buy a new mobile home that was available for sale at the time.  She was very patient in the process and gave us helpful feedback in helping us decide what home would be right for us.

I would highly recommend Lan as she is very friendly and know what she is talking about.  As part of the walk through, she would help point out some defects that we missed which showed that she really cares for her customers. She is willing to work around the clock to make her customer happy by replying to my emails after hours which really helped with my busy work schedule.  Planning from our side changed, and she was able to get the home manufacturer to finish up the home faster to help us with our move in date.  An AC unit was also installed with the home which she helped out on.

There were defects in the homes, but Skyline was able to send their tech’s down to fix the defects after we closed out escrow.

So far, we are happy with our purchase and the 15 months warranty gives us a peace of mind regarding the house.

Johnny D. from San Jose, CA

I hired Lan Nguyen to sell my mom’s Sunnyvale manufactured home of 30 years. She helped me every step of the way and worked with the park managers and new buyer through the inspections to park applications for new residence. Lan is very professional and handled the buyer and seller relationship smoothly. She is patient and realistic. I highly recommend Lan if you plan to sell your mfg home or are looking to buy one. She understands what needs to be done from the sellers and buyers side. She has good relationships with park Managment to ensure their needs are met too. She gets the job done efficiently and effectively and organizes all the paperwork and she accommodating for special needs too. She does not need to be micro managed and that’s was VERY helpful for me. Lan gets the job done and I highly recommend she help you buy/sell your mobile home.

Becky O.

My wife and I purchased our first manufactured home in Sunnyvale. Lan Nguyen was our agent, she stayed in contact with us every week during escrow, informed as far as where we were in our process of purchasing, and made a whole purchasing process very easy and we were able to close escrow in 3 1/2 weeks. I had a lot of questions about The leasing process, what type of insurance that we needed as well as property tax information in regards to owning a manufactured home, she patiently answered all my questions and explain the whole process to us. During our move-in process there’s a few things that came up and she was able to help us resolve our issues very quickly. I would highly recommend Lan Nguyen for either purchasing or selling your property.

Lan thank you for all your help. We are very happy with her new home.

Roger M. of Sunnyvale, CA

 

5 Manufactured Homes Myths

home myths

Manufactured homes, known to many as trailer or mobile homes, have evolved over the past 50 years. There are a few myths often associated with the manufactured home market which may have at one point been almost true.

Since construction standards were established in 1976 by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, many of the negative remarks about manufactured homes are only myths. As the manufactured housing market continues to develop new concepts and designs, these homes have been purchased by more families than ever before.

1. Manufactured Homes Look the Same
Many manufactured home builders, like Skyline Homes and Karsten, offer basic floor plans with quality features such as a front porch and dual pane windows. However, they also provide a wide variety of customizable floor plans, design options, and upgrades to meet the client’s needs. According to SFGate on the subject of no variety, manufactured homes “provide consumers with a wide range of interior and exterior options” and “produce luxury models with hardwood floors, whirlpool baths, stonework fireplaces and walk-in closets”.

Showroom
Alliance Manufactured Homes’ Design Room in the San Jose Office (2410 Monterey Rd.)

If you have never been inside a manufactured home before, try to visit one of the open houses in your area. Once you’re inside, it is difficult to tell the difference between a manufactured home and an on-site built home. With many homes designed for individual needs in mind or to meet a budget, many homes can be spacious and well-appointed.

2. Manufactured Homes Can Get Destroyed Easily
Manufactured homes sold after 1994 are built to the same HUD standards for construction, strength, fire resistance and wind resistance that are applied to site-built homes. A report published by the state of Florida indicates that no manufactured home built to these standards received any major damage during the severe 2004-2005 hurricane season. Another study published by Foremost Insurance Company came to a conclusion that manufactured homes are less likely to catch fire than site-built homes.

In fact, manufactured homes today are factory-built under climate-controlled conditions. This means that the building materials are not exposed to outdoor conditions, especially during the raining season, where moisture can cause expansion and mold in the future. Skyline Homes stated on the comparison between factory-built and site-built homes that “factory-built homes are generally stronger,” sturdier, and more efficient.

3. Manufactured Homes Are For Families W/ Low Income
It’s no surprise to that the housing market in the Silicon Valley is growing at a ridiculous pace over the past years. The supply of available homes are decreasing, yet the demand to keep the prices up is very high. Many tech companies are located in Sunnyvale, Mountain View, and San Jose; however, these cities are also home to multiple family and senior mobile home parks. LA Times reported that “there are tech industry workers who live in Plaza del Rey — employees of Apple, Google, Oracle and local start-ups.”

4. Manufactured Homes Are Hard To Finance
Manufactured homes were previously financed or purchased as personal property, making loans more difficult to obtain. Today, it’s easier to finance. Despite the fact that only a handful of lenders offer manufactured home loans, some of them are willing to provide financing options similar to those available for site-built residences. When properly financed, manufactured housing allows homeowners to build equity just as traditional site-built homes.

Mobile Home Brokers is our own in-house finance team capable of everything from checking your credit and handling your credit application, to securing you a loan with the best rate. They can provide you with quick updates on the status of your home sale through constant communication, quick turnaround, as well as competitive and hassle-free financing. Feel free to contact us at (408) 745-1000 for more information.

5. Manufactured Homes Lose Value
Unlike automobiles, manufactured homes can appreciate just like any other form of housing. According to Home First, other factors that help the value are the location of the land, age of the home, housing market, inflation rates, new upgrades/additions to the home, and availability of the area.

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Manufactured home in Chateau La Salle (San Jose) with beautifully maintained curb appeal.

Want Fast Cash For Your House? We Buy Homes!

webuyhomes

  • Are you relocating or facing foreclosure?
  • Have a home that needs extensive repairs?
  • Did you inherit a home you want to sell?
  • Looking for a quick guaranteed sale, with no hassle and no risk?

We got the solution for you.

Alliance Manufactured Homes buy homes “as-is”, with no commissions, no hidden fees, no inspections, no repairs, and no wait. In addition to handling the paperwork from start to finish, Alliance will give you a deposit the day the agreement is made and the balance when you are ready to move out.

Is a cash out for me?

A cash out is ideal for someone who needs a guaranteed cash sale and complete control over the timing of the transaction. While this option may not yield as much money as a listing, it requires minimal effort, absolutely no expenses, and 100% certainty, which gives you the freedom to move smoothly to your next living situation.

What if your home requires thousands of dollars in repairs that needs to be corrected before you can sell it, and you don’t have the cash? Putting your home on the market in disrepair will likely result in low-ball offers or ward off qualified buyers altogether.

What if you secure a new job that requires you to leave the area immediately, but you have not yet thought about putting your home on the market? Can you afford the stress, expense, and uncertainty of paying for two living situations for as long as it takes to sell your home? Most people can’t, which is why a cash-out is perfect for certain homeowners.

All you have to do is call an Alliance agent to evaluate your home. You will receive a cash-out price within 2 days. At your request, you can receive your proceeds in as little as 14 days. Take everything with you, or leave it all behind and we will clean it up. Our goal is to make your sale as convenient as possible. This option is not ideal for everyone, but if you are thinking of selling, it is worth evaluating a guaranteed offer.

This can save you $10,000 to $20,000 – depending on the condition of your home. The housing market is hot in the Silicon Valley; therefore, we currently have a waiting list of buyers looking for new homes in various manufactured housing communities.

Quick Run Down of Cashing Out:

  • Know exactly how much money will end up in your pocket
  • Decide when you want to close, move out, and receive your money
  • Avoid the stress of showings, open houses, and negotiating with buyers
  • Dodge the expense of repairs, commissions, inspections, and closing costs
  • Leave unwanted items behind – you don’t even have to clean

What sets us apart from other companies is that we do more than just buy and sell homes. We provide trade-in programs for those who love where they live, but need to upgrade their living situation from a 1970’s home to a brand new 2018 home!

If you are considering selling in the near future, now is the great time to explore your options. Our manufactured home specialists are professional, helpful, and will deal with any concern you may have with this process.

Your home may be worth more than you think! Call today at (888) 874-8692 to speak with an agent for a free quote!

Advantages to Living in a Mobile Home Community

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Casa De Amigos; 1085 Tasman Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

What are the first things that come to mind when you hear “mobile home community?”

Do the words, “attractive”, “secure”, or “luxurious” come to mind?

Modern mobile home communities in the Silicon Valley are not what you may think. There are many benefits associated with living in a mobile home community ranging from lifestyle to social benefits. These include minimal maintenance, great location with convenience, home ownership perks, and community amenities such as club houses, swimming pools, fitness centers, and a playground!

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Adobe Wells; 1220 Tasman Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

Take for instance, the Sunset Estates Mobile Home Community in Mountain View, CA is a peaceful and comfortable senior community. As you drive through the park, you will notice the properties have relatively large yards, which is a rarity with mobile home living and dramatically increases curb appeal.

Casa De Amigos, for example, is the ideal community for raising a family. Mobile Home Living provided a reasonable statement that when a park is managed correctly, with proper background checks and safety protocols, the entire community become a safety net for the children within the park. There are also neighborhood watch programs and a wide array of activities and amenities such as clubhouses, pools, tennis courts, and walking trails. It is noted that most communities in the Silicon Valley are well-kept and maintained by the professional community managers.

Enjoy the lavish landscape with a pond and extensive grassy areas at the family community of Adobe Wells or the quiet neighborhood with an expansive and elegant club room at the Chateau La Salle.

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Chateau La Salle; 2681 Monterey Hwy, San Jose, CA 95111

Living in a modern mobile home community offers much more than the average apartment complex and offers the same comfort and amenities much like a site built home. You also have the flexibility to customize your home on a much more spacious floor plan!

One of the advantages for living in a mobile home community, according to Mobile Home Maintenance Parts, is that it is much cheaper than buying or renting a traditional housing unit. Depending on the size of your family, it is possible to get some very spacious living quarters in an MHP, competing favorably with any living quarter you may get in a different setting.

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Willow Ranch; 1111 Morse Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

If you would like more information on any of the communities we serve, do not hesitate to ask our experienced professionals – or you can click on this link here!

Whether you’re look for that perfect home or looking to sell, Alliance is here for you! Call today at (888) 874-8692 to speak with an agent for more information on our manufactured homes and communities in your area.

Sources:

Some Interesting Pros And Cons Of Living In A Mobile Home Community. Mobile Home Maintenance Parts. 25 Feb 2018. Web. 19 Mar 2018. http://mobilehomemaintenanceparts.com/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-a-mobile-home-community.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Mobile Home Parks. Web. 19 Mar 2018. https://mobilehomeliving.org/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-mobile-home-parks.

6 Items Every Household Should Have

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Did you know most families are not prepared for an emergency? According to a Columbia University survey in 2011, respondents didn’t have basic emergency items such as water and flashlights. Below are recommended items any household should have to keep your family safe when faced with common hazards:

  1. Risk Detectors – Risk detectors should be installed to alert for smoke and carbon monoxide. Don’t forget to replace them as they may lose their sensitivity over time.
  2. Fire Extinguishers – Every household should have a fire extinguisher to control small fires in an emergency.  Not only is it important to have one in accessible locations, but learning how to use properly one is key.
  3. First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is a must for any emergency. Each kit will include basic supplies such as wound-dressing and antiseptics, but you should add extra medications specific to your family members.
  4. Battery-powered Flashlights and a Radio – In an event where the electricity is out for a long period you will need flashlights and a radio. Flashlights will aid in navigating through the dark and allow you and your family to travel to a safe location. Make sure to keep an extra set of batteries. A radio will all give you access to any important local and government updates.
  5. Food and Water Supplies – It is recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to have at least one gallon of bottled water per family member per day. In addition, there should be enough nonperishable food items for your family (including pets) for at least three days.  Be sure to check your emergency food and water every six months for expiration dates.
  6. An Emergency Game Plan – Did you know most families do not have an emergency plan? Planning in the event of a fire, earthquake, or any other emergency will ensure each family member is aware of the proper steps to take and where to meet in case of an evacuation.

Source:

Roberts, Amy. 6 Must-Have Safety Items for Every Home. Liberty Mutual. Web. 25 Oct 2013.
http://www.libertymutual.com/safe-and-smart-living/home-articles/home-emergency-response-plan

5 Great Reasons People Purchase Manufactured Homes

Mobile homes on a trailer park at dusk

  1. Manufactured homes are built in controlled environments under the factory roof and shipped in weatherproof wrapping.
  2. The costs per square foot is typically much less than site built homes.
  3. Manufactured homes can be completed faster than site-built homes.
  4. Manufactured construction is typically greener because building in a factory environment reduces a great deal of waste.
  5. Most manufactured home companies permit you to design your own home. Design and build a brand new home for less than your rent!

Breakthrough in Bay Area Housing Sales

Growing home sales

According to a recent report the Bay Area’s housing marketing reached the highest level of sales in nearly seven years.

Realtor’s president, Errol Samuelson said, “You’re seeing the marketing start to stabilize, which is a really good thing”. While sellers are benefiting from the large yearly gain in sales prices, buyers are finding it easier to move into the market.

David Chung, a recent home buyer in Walnut Creek said, “We timed it well… These are incredibly low rates. I couldn’t be happier”.

Furthermore, Kevin Kieffer with Keller Williams in Danville states, “There’s enough owner-occupy buyers coming in to fill the gap, and they’re getting a better price”.

Source:

Carey, Pete. Bay Area Home Sales Hit Seven-Year High.  San Jose Mercury News. 15 Aug. 2013. Web. 26 Aug 2013. http://www.mercurynews.com/business/ci_23869987/bay-area-home-sales-hit-seven-year-high.

California Home Buying Process

 

Fig. 1 Besançon, Ellie. “Members are Using One Cool Thing!” California Real Estate Oct. 2012: 9. Print.

How do most people find their dream home? Home buying trends are changing. According to the California Association of Realtors, 80% of people found their home through an agent followed by websites, sale signs, and open houses. The data also reveals that home buyers today are looking at fewer homes before making the big move. What do you think of these statistics? (see fig. 1)

The Distinction Between Manufactured, Mobile, and Multi-Unit

Trailer park

In order to better understand the present day’s manufactured homes it is to differentiate the definitions of manufactured homes, mobile homes, modular homes, and multi-unit manufactured housing.

The terms all refer to a type of home, but each one has its own specific home type. The California Manufactured Housing Institute website, http://cmhi.org/cons05bll.asp, states the differences between each.

Manufactured Home. The manufactured home is constructed to comply with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, a uniform building standard administered and enforced by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD Code). Over 97 percent of all homes constructed in California factories meet this code.

Factory-Built Homes. Often called “modular” homes, factory-built homes are constructed to comply with the California Administrative Code. About three percent of all factory homes produced in California meet this code.

Mobile Homes. These homes were constructed to comply with standards enforced by the State of California prior to June 15, 1976, when the federal preemptive HUD Code became effective. Mobile homes have not been constructed since this date.

gMulti-unit Manufactured Housing. These homes are built to very specific codes and for use as two-or more dwelling units. Structures can include, duplexes, dormitories, hotels, apartment houses, and other structures that contain two-or more dwelling units. Each have different applicable codes. These homes are utilized by developers for higher density and infill development.

If you have any questions about homes, please check out our website at Alliance MH or give us a call at 408-598-2078!

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