Your options
Same destination. Different blueprints.
Factory-built homes are not one-size-fits-all. They come in several forms, each shaped for different land, different budgets, and different timelines. Here is what you are actually choosing between.
Most popular option
The one most people start with
Manufactured homes are built entirely in a factory to the HUD Code, the federal building standard administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. They are the most common type of factory-built housing and represent the core of what Axis Homes offers.
Single-section homes run 14 to 18 feet wide and up to 80 feet long, giving you 800 to 1,400 square feet. They work well on smaller lots, as ADUs, or for anyone who values an efficient layout over extra room to roam.
Multi-section homes are built in two or three sections and joined on-site by licensed contractors. They deliver 1,200 to 2,500-plus square feet with open floor plans, multiple bedrooms, and finishes that hold their own against site-built homes. This is the most popular choice for primary residences on private land.
Best for
Primary residences on private land, rural properties, first-time homebuyers, and anyone who wants a new home with modern finishes at a lower cost per square foot than site-built construction.
Coming soon
The one your appraiser cannot tell apart
Modular homes are factory-built in sections, then assembled on-site to meet local and state building codes. Once the sections are joined, a modular home is legally and structurally identical to a site-built home.
That distinction matters more than it sounds. Because modular homes follow the same International Residential Code (IRC) as stick-built houses, they are appraised, financed, and taxed the same way. Your lender treats it like a traditional home. Your county assessor treats it like a traditional home. Because it is one.
You also get multi-story configurations, custom floor plans, and high-end finishes — all with construction timelines that run 30 to 50 percent shorter than site-built.
Best for
Buyers who want factory-built efficiency with site-built classification. Ideal for neighborhoods with building code requirements, buyers seeking conventional financing, or anyone who wants a custom design built faster.
Growing opportunity
The one hiding in your backyard
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent home built on the same lot as your existing house. You might hear them called casitas, guest houses, granny flats, or backyard cottages. Whatever the name, they are one of the most flexible housing options available right now.
Arizona cities are actively updating housing regulations. Check with your local planning department to understand current rules for ADUs on your property. The landscape is changing quickly, and new opportunities are opening up for homeowners who want to add living space, house family members, or generate rental income.
Factory-built ADUs have real advantages over site-built. Faster timelines, predictable costs, and far less disruption to your existing property.
Best for
Homeowners adding living space for family members, creating rental income, building a home office, or increasing property value.
Coming soon
Park model homes
Park model homes are compact factory-built structures, typically under 400 square feet, built to ANSI standards. They are designed for seasonal or recreational use, though plenty of people live in them year-round in Arizona's climate.
Think vacation properties, guest accommodations, or a way to live smaller without giving up comfort. Full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas packed into a well-designed footprint.
Axis Homes plans to offer park model homes as part of our expanding product line. If this interests you, sign up for updates and we will notify you when park models become available.
Side by side, no fine print
Each type of factory-built home serves a different purpose. Here is what actually separates them.
| Feature | Manufactured | Modular | ADU | Park Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building code | HUD Code (federal) | IRC/local codes | Varies by type | ANSI standards |
| Typical size | 800 – 2,500+ sq ft | 1,000 – 3,000+ sq ft | 200 – 1,200 sq ft | Under 400 sq ft |
| Primary use | Primary residence | Primary residence | Secondary dwelling | Seasonal / guest |
| Financing | Chattel or mortgage | Conventional mortgage | Home equity / loan | Personal / RV loan |
| Multi-story | Single story | Yes | Varies | Loft only |
| Custom floor plans | Select from catalog | Fully customizable | Select or custom | Select from catalog |
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