Be prepared for delays.

Building a house is a complicated project and can utilize many subcontractors, workers and suppliers. Delays can--and probably will--happen, and that will back up the entire process. A delay, for example, in the inspections can stop everything: electricians and plumbers are unable to do their "final" work until the "rough work" has been signed off. Don't lock your move-in date in stone--it may be weeks later.

The best value for your money

Modular homes are built in factories, and benefit from the assembly line production process. The factories buy huge quantities of lumber, sheet rock, carpet, paint, etc., they pay much less for each and can have large quantities delivered at one time. Labor is used with maximum efficiency, with skilled craftsman moving between workstations on the factory floor.