USAA, primarily serving military members and their families, offers a range of financial products, but their stance on financing modular homes is nuanced and warrants careful consideration. While USAA doesn’t explicitly advertise specialized modular home loans, it *is* possible to finance a modular home through them, although it often requires jumping through a few more hoops compared to traditional site-built homes.
The key lies in how the modular home is classified. If the modular home is permanently affixed to a foundation and considered real property, it can potentially qualify for a standard USAA mortgage. This means the home needs to be treated similarly to a traditional stick-built house under local and state laws. Factors like a permanent foundation, connection to utilities, and adherence to local building codes are crucial in determining if a modular home meets these criteria.
However, USAA might be less inclined to finance a modular home that is considered personal property, similar to a manufactured home (formerly known as a mobile home) that isn’t permanently fixed. While USAA does offer some financing options for manufactured homes, they may have stricter requirements regarding the age, size, and location of the property. Securing financing for a modular home classified as personal property could require exploring alternative lenders specializing in manufactured home loans.
The process of obtaining financing for a modular home through USAA generally involves several steps. First, thorough documentation proving the home’s compliance with local building codes and permanent foundation is essential. This includes architectural plans, engineering reports, and inspection certificates. Next, a comprehensive appraisal is necessary to determine the home’s market value. USAA will want to ensure the home is properly insured throughout the construction and financing process.
Ultimately, whether USAA will finance a modular home depends on a case-by-case evaluation. Factors like the borrower’s creditworthiness, debt-to-income ratio, and the specific characteristics of the modular home itself will play a significant role. It’s advisable to contact a USAA loan officer directly to discuss your specific situation and determine if a modular home loan is a viable option. Exploring other lenders specializing in modular or manufactured home financing might also be beneficial to ensure you secure the best possible terms and rates.