Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I buy a manufactured home?
- Lower Cost: Per square foot, the price of a new manufactured home is less than that of a site-built home.
- Factory Precision: Factory built homes are not subject to weather delays, vandalism and high on-site construction wages. Materials are bought in cost-saving volume, resulting in more efficient construction than conventionally built homes.
- Low Maintenance: The efficiencies of factory production and the constant updating of design and engineering aspects have kept maintenance costs of manufactured housing low.
- Quality Control: Manufactured homes are designed to be transported. Assembly line materials are of the highest quality. Federal Government code regulates factory certification and conducts frequent quality assurance inspections.
- Options Available: The price of a manufactured home includes not only the structure, but also major appliances, carpeting and window treatments. It also typically includes the cost of transporting the home, lot development, steps, skirting (or siding), concrete work (such as drives, walkways and patios) and full setup. Many options and color choices are available to the discriminating home buyer. Furthermore, some lines can be structurally customized to your needs.
- Reduce the Property Tax Burden: Property taxes on manufactured home sites is much lower than those for foundation-built homes.
Are your new homes warrantied?
Yes! All our newly constructed homes include a 1 year manufacturer warranty. Used homes are not sold with a warranty.
How long is the warranty period?
Our manufacturer’s warranty is for a period of one year from the original purchase date. Our management can supply you with detailed information on all warranties available on the home of your choice.
Where can I find the model and serial numbers on my current home?
When the home is manufactured, a plate is affixed to the back of the home.
Do you have any used homes available?
We offer many pre-owned homes for sale. They are thoroughly cleaned and any needed repairs done before you take possession.
Do you supply the land to go with the home?
You will rent the lot that the home sits on. That lot rent is one of the lowest in the area.
How does manufactured housing compare to site built housing?
Manufactured homes are built entirely in the home building facility under federal code administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which went into effect June 15, 1976, and has been upgraded numerous times. The code covers single or multi-section homes and includes transport to the site and installation. Regulations include design, construction, strength, durability, transportability, fire resistance, energy efficiency, and quality.
When mobile homes are built and delivered to a site, they are secured to the ground to withstand high winds. Residents have reported winds in excess of 80 MPH have caused no damage to their homes.
Can I trade in my current home?
In many cases, yes. Our property manager can assist you with the trade-in process.
How do I get financing to purchase the home?
We will assist you will obtaining financing. If you have a lender to give you the loan, you are welcome to use them instead.
How much is your site rental and what services does it include?
Site rental is currently $340 per month. It includes water, sewer and weekly garbage collection. Sites all have underground utilities including cable TV. Community roads and common areas are maintained by our staff. Individual site maintenance, including lawn mowing and driveway/walk snow removal, is the responsibility of the resident(s).
What about real estate taxes?
Your manufactured home is taxed as real estate. You will receive a property tax bill directly from Pottawattamee County. The amount varies from $.16 to $.20 per square foot based on the age of the home.
Does your community allow dogs?
We allow two pets per site. Each must be under 80 pounds. When outside it may be exercised on a leash with the owner in attendance. No tie-outs are allowed. No animals are allowed to run free. We expect residents to clean up after their pets.
How can I get a copy of your community rules?
Please see our contact page for methods of contacting us and we will be happy to provide you with a copy.
How are the home sites developed?
All new homes are set on full concrete pier foundations. Some sites include concrete patios and sidewalks.
Do you offer steps and skirting?
All our sectional homes include both front and rear steps. All our new homes are completed skirted with vinyl skirting.
How do you handle customer service and complaints?
We strive to provide absolutely the best value in homes coupled with outstanding service. We realize that there will always be a need for exceptional service and we are happy to provide that to you.
What is the best feature or reason why I should choose your community?
We welcome you to see how attractive and affordable we can make this housing option. Our community boasts beauty, not just curbside, but within each of our residents. The atmosphere is one of growing friendships and a pleasurable lifestyle. Join the fastest growing housing choice of the new century and see what our residents have known all along. Manufactured homes can be the most affordable, high quality housing choice you will find. Lakeside Mobile Home Community has many long term residents and caring, competent management.
Is Carter Lake in Iowa or Nebraska?
Carter Lake is the only Iowa city located West of the Missouri River. This is due to a flood that occurred in March, 1877 which redirected the course of the river. This left the 2.0 square mile city of Carter Lake surrounded on 3 sides by Omaha, NE and 1 side by the Missouri River. A court battle between the two states awarded Carter Lake to Iowa.


