I inherited a 1987 double wide and the land it is sitting on recently in the Northwest. My question is centered on the fact that the house has not been on a permanent foundation this whole time, just has concrete piers that are not anchored and no permafrost protection. There is no obvious sign of frost heave but I don't think the home has been leveled since 1987. We have found a alternative foundation system that can be installed under the house that would meet HUD requirements and the estimated cost is $15,000-$25,000.
I am wondering if it is worth it to add a permanent foundation to this home or if it is a better idea to demo it/get rid of it and put a new home in the location?
Some factors (I'm not versed in home buying, construction etc language yet so please forgive any awkward descriptions or incorrect terms):
- There are signs internally of the lack of leveling: doors that don't close right; one corner between walls is cracked and the corner trim piece is pushed in; outlet covers are crooked (not sure this is from not being leveled or just crappy work); other trim pieces in the house are crooked or mildly sagging.
- The house has had some remodeling and upgrades including a relatively new roof, new furnace and some aesthetic upgrades.
- Several outlets in the home do not work and am not sure how much of an overhaul is needed there.
- Original plumbing
- Original crappy plastic windows that need to be replaced
I plan on living in this location for the rest of my life (20+ years fingers crossed) so am not looking for advice on how to increase the home's value for selling. I am more interested in hearing advice/informed opinions about whether it is worth it to try to add the foundation and upgrade this house vs putting a new manufactured home on the property on a permanent foundation from a structural/sustainable perspective.
Thanks!