Mobile Home Book Values

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a book value?

A book value is just what it says it is. It is a value taken from a book. There used to be several "books" that were used to calculate the value of a mobile home, but now there is just one - The N.A.D.A Manufactured Housing Appraisal Guide. It's the book that our certified appraisers use to calculate your home's book value, and it's the very same book that everyone who calculates book values for mobile homes uses.

How is a manufactured housing book value calculated?

The basic book value is determined based on the make, model, age, and size of the manufactured home. Additional adjustments can also be made for accessories and components, condition, community rating, and geographical location.

Will my book value be the same regardless of who does it?

It should be if it's done correctly. The book is somewhat complicated, and not always easy to understand. A book value should only be calculated by an experienced appraiser familiar with how the book works and who knows how to use it correctly. That's why we rely on Datacomp Appraisal Services for all our book values. Datacomp appraises homes nationwide and is the oldest and largest manufactured home appraisal provider in the nation. They have been appraising manufactured and mobile homes since 1987, and are used by over 300 banks and lenders. They have done hundreds of thousands of mobile home appraisals, and everyone of their appraisers is a board-certified manufactured home appraiser.

When does the book value work well?

The book value works best for an average home in an average location where the local manufactured housing market is average. The problem is, unless you have a lot of experience, you will not know how "average" your situation is.

When is the book value estimate likely to be incorrect?

The further from average your situation is, the less accurate the book value will tend to be. For example, if there is an excess supply of homes for sale in your area, the book value may be too high. If there are very few homes for sale in your area, the book value may be too low.

When are book values a good choice?

Many lenders and certain legal circumstances accept and even require the book value. If that covers your situation, a book value may be all you need. The advanced book value option almost always produces a more accurate and higher value than a simple book value. Consider the advanced book value option if you want to demonstrate a higher value and you want to include more of the amenities, features and components of your home. Finally, the book value combined with our Market Analysis Report will provide valuable information to allow you to more accurately access how your current local market conditions affect the true value of your home.

What if I need a professional appraisal when I buy or sell my home?

Often lenders, insurers, or buyers will want a full professional appraisal performed before they finance, insure, or purchase a home. MHVillage has an exclusive agreement with Datacomp Appraisal Services to credit the full amount that you pay for our Book Value/Market Analysis Report toward the purchase of an appraisal. When you order your appraisal, simply provide Datacomp with your report's order number (it's printed on your report) to receive your credit.