Rating Parameters

Now for the FIRST TIME home buyers can learn how the manufacturers compare to each other in all Five Regions of the United States. In chapter 11 of our book we list each region, (West, Southwest, Midwest, Southeast & Northeast). At the end of each region is a Detailed Rating Chart listing all of the manufacturers that build and deliver into that region. The rating charts are a great resource and give home buyers a quick reference point in understanding who’s, who in each region of the U.S.

Overall the industry has been open to speaking with me and my research team. As expected, a few companies declined to speak with us but most welcomed the chance to get their information out.

(R) = Ranking: The first category at top of the chart is (R). Each manufacturer will be placed according to total points received within each classification. Regarding class please see description below.

(Class) = Classification: The second category is called, Class. This category is broken up into three separate parts:

• (P) Premium
• (AA) Above Average
• (E) Economy
  

Most homebuyers have a budget or set amount they are willing to pay for a home based on perceived value. A homebuyer will typically fall into one of the three categories listed above. Whether you’re an upper-end, mid-range or an entry-level buyer this guide will help you focus on producers that meet your expectations and comfort level.

In the sample rating chart at the bottom of this page, Company A is number one in the Premium category. Company B and C are also in the number one position based on their classification. It would not be fair to compare Company A to Company C because both are appealing to different types of home buyers with construction differences and prices.

(P) = Premium: Denotes that the home is well-constructed with a high standard of craftsmanship, utilizing quality materials. This type of home is priced accordingly and is considered top of the line or the best of the best. Manufacturers that fall into the premium category are appealing to upper-end buyers with quality and style being the most important.

(AA) = Above Average: Denotes that the home is well-built, using quality materials, at a price below premium or custom homes. Manufacturers that fall into the above average category are appealing to mid-range buyers, price and quality both playing an important role.

(E) = Economy: Denotes that the home is satisfactory regarding construction features with standard to below standard material being used. This type of home appeals to those on a tight budget. Manufacturers that fall into the economy category are appealing to entry-level buyers, price being the biggest factor.

Manufacturer: This is the particular producer that builds homes.

Location = The fourth category lists where the manufacturer is located. In the case of a large corporation, like Champion Homes for example, location is where the main corporate office is located. The company’s manufacturing facilities may be located in other states.

(SC) = Strongest Category: The fifth category called, Strongest Category, refers to the company’s strongest focus. For example, this could mean the company distributed homes primarily to single-family homebuyers, this being their strongest category. Some producers primarily focus on commercial building projects. This only serves as a quick reference point and helps homebuyers understand each producer’s main focus in the housing industry.

Price Range: The sixth category listed in the sample rating chart is called Price Range. In this category I try to give my readers a quick overview of how much homes cost on average. A manufacturer may offer a wide range of floor plans, styles and designs to choose from. This category only serves as a quick reference and homebuyers should contact the manufacturer or their dealer network to secure accurate pricing for a particular model or brand.

Categories 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the rating chart comprise the ratings for each manufacturer. While there are many different approaches or criteria I could use to rate each company, I decided to focus on:

• (RA) Residential appeal
• (C) Construction
• (CS) Customer satisfaction
• (RV) Resale value

Within each category a manufacturer receives a rating based on our research and data collected. Each criteria; RA, C, CS and RV has a possible 25 points, a 100 being a perfect score.

(C) = Construction: Most, if not all, homebuyers are concerned with the quality of construction in the home they are considering. This is an important factor in the overall rating of each manufacturer.

(CS) = Customer Satisfaction: We spoke with many home owners and listened to what they had to say. Their experience and insight was especially helpful regarding the area of customer satisfaction. We have spent hundreds of hours speaking with different individuals both in and outside of the industry. We have read numerous books and articles pertaining to the industry as well. We have also read a number of studies that have been conducted by universities and other non profit organizations, which have been helpful.

(RV) = Resale Value: Many homebuyers we spoke with were concerned about Resale Value. There are many variables that can affect the resale value or how well your home appreciates over time. Obviously, a quality built home will appreciate in value at a much quicker pace compared to a poorly built home. Residential appeal or street appeal plays an important role, as does the area or neighborhood. Based on this information we tried to accurately rate each manufacturer regarding resale value. This is subjective of course but we feel our ratings are fair and balanced.

Total Points: All four categories, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are totaled to determine ranking and position within each classification, (100 points being a perfect score).