Researching PreFab Options

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From the beginning of 2004, David and I inquired about nearly every available prefab option (you've probably seen them all at fabprefab . In the beginning it seemed as though we had many options, until we pared the list down and settled on one architect-designed product (to remain nameless). It fit our budget and aesthetic perfectly. More importantly, the firm was extremely helpful with all of our questions and we felt comfortable with our choice.

Right after we sorted out the problem with finding land, we contacted the architectural firm and they informed us that they no longer had a modular manufacturer who could supply California. They were looking into finding another manufacturer and it was likely that the cost would increase by 25%. Unfortunately that completely blew our budget and we had to find another option.

I wondered if we could find a modular home manufacturer who would do a custom design. I spent a few days looking everywhere for a manufacturer close to California who would take on a custom modular project. I called companies in Texas, Arizona with no luck until we a found a mom-and-pop modular company located in Utah who was more that willing to do an unorthodox home.

Because our construction loan is structured as a land and building loan we've had to price our project BEFORE we close escrow on our land. So, we were left with no line item for the price of the actual structure, because we didn't have a design.

During our research process we were very impressed with Gregory La Vardera's designs and we asked him if he would be willing to take on our project. Thankfully, he was willing to do this on short notice and this is what he designed for us based on a floor plan that we gave to him. If it wasn't for Greg bailing us out, we would have to settle on a standard home so we could close escrow on time. Yes, including the colonial 6-panel doors and orange peel walls.

We are very happy with the way it's turned out and we can't wait to see how the house will look when it's actually built.