Prefabricated homes are a booming industry in Spain, especially since the coronavirus pandemic, and knowledge about them is becoming more common. You've probably heard the terms prefab homes and prefab modular homes before. However as the concepts are nearly identical and the terms are frequently used interchangeably, they can cause some confusion. In this article, we will try to help you understand the differences between prefab and modular homes.
Prefabricated homes
These constructions are pre-made in a factory. They can be considered prefabricated houses when they are smaller than a certain size. This allows them to be transported to their destination in one trip, already assembled. The only installation necessary is the connection between the piece and services such as water, electricity, telecommunications and sanitation/sewage.
Modular Prefab Homes
Modular prefab homes, or simply modular homes, are also factory built, but because of their size they cannot be transported as a single unit. Think of it like a puzzle in which each room is a transportable piece. When the modular house reaches its destination, it needs to be put together to become a dwelling.
As far as technical specifications are concerned, they are the same for both prefabricated houses and modular houses, with the exception that in the case of modular houses, or 'block puzzles', there are also techniques and technologies related to putting them together and isolating the different modules.
Advantages of prefabricated or modular homes
To sum up, a house is (only) prefabricated when it is completely factory built and transported whole to the site, with no need to put it together. It becomes a prefabricated modular home when its previous factory construction is done using modules that must then be connected at the deployment site.
The construction of prefabricated and modular houses in Spain has been an increasingly sought-after alternative that presents numerous advantages:
- Reductions in construction time, as the process is not subject to weather conditions.
- Greater control of expenses, since it is possible to know a budget in advance.
- Adapted to any style/taste allowing you to create the home of your dreams.
- Ecological because they have an optimized production process that is reflected in a reduction in the amount of waste and because there are already prefabricated and modular homes with very high degrees of energy certification.
See more pros and cons of prefabricated houses.
And make sure you have the right permits and licenses.
Foreigners and their thirst for Spanish properties
Foreign homebuyers in Spain are at an all-time high (15%), according to the Yearbook of Property Registrars, and barely 1.7% lower than 2022 sales records, with just over 87,300. The British (9.5%), Germans (7.3%) and French (6.7%) are once again the main foreign homebuyers.
Cheap property for sale at auction in Spain
Property auctions in Spain can be an exciting and potentially lucrative way to purchase real estate. Buying property at auction allows you to get your hands on a house in Spain for considerably less than the market value. These types of properties come mostly from bank assets, but there are also individuals who opt for this type of formula to sell their home. Some may be in good condition while others may require renovation.
