A Simple Rule Change Could Make Manufactured Homes Cheaper and More Design‑Friendly
A landmark housing bill would remove the 50-year-old permanent chassis requirement for manufactured homes, enabling cost reductions (est. 27%–65% cheaper than stick-built homes) and expanded design options, including multi-story designs and ADUs. Real impact hinges on manufacturers passing savings along to buyers and on HUD setting new standards, plus state/local zoning adjustments; the change is part of the bipartisan 21st Century Road to Housing Act, with the chassis rule seen as its key feature, but obstacles remain due to zoning and regulatory alignment across states.