There is a wide variety of prefab houses to choose from. Over the years, many companies and builders have joined the modular housing trend and as a result, the selection has increased. From simple houses to real luxury mansions, anything is possible.
If you want to buy a prefabricated house and don't know which is right for you, this article reviews some questions that will make deciding easier.
I want a prefabricated house to enjoy village life
If you're looking for a prefabricated house as a second home or a main house to live in outside the city, in a village or close to nature, the most recommendable option would be a rustic-style house.
This does not necessarily mean that it has to be made of wood, although this material always gives houses a warm and cosy feel that other materials do not. Different prefabricated house options are available for living in nature and villages made of different materials: concrete, steel, stone, wood...
For example, a prefab house that might fit well in a village in northern Spain could be made of wood, wood and stone, or concrete with tiled roofs. However, such a house might not be ideal for Ibiza. Therefore, you need to know in which area you want to build the house to filter through the different options.
I want a house as a second home or holiday home
If you're looking for a home to escape to for weekends, holidays or short breaks, you need to think about functionality, comfort and the style you want. A prefabricated house designed to be a second or holiday home usually has specific characteristics that set it apart from a main residence.
Lightness and versatility are two key words in this type of housing. You can opt for open-plan designs with large windows to enjoy the views and natural light. Terraces or porches are essential for enjoying the outdoors and relaxing during those days off.
In terms of materials, sandwich panel houses or metal structures are popular. Not only because they are quick to install but also because they are often cheaper than other options. If your holiday destination is on the coast, consider using saline- and moisture-resistant materials.
Size is another aspect to consider. While some people prefer small, cosy homes for their getaways, others are looking for more spacious homes to accommodate family and friends. Think about your needs and preferences: How many bedrooms do you need? Do you want a space for barbecues? And what about a swimming pool?
And what about sustainability? If you're considering buying a prefabricated home to be near a natural space, eco-friendly options may be essential. Prefabricated homes with solar panels, aerothermal systems, rainwater harvesting systems or recycled materials are becoming increasingly common. They're excellent for those looking to minimise their environmental impact.
I want a prefabricated house to live in a residential area
If you're looking for a modular home to be installed in a residential neighbourhood, you should think about a prefab house that blends in with its surroundings but at the same time has modern and functional features.
Prefabricated houses for residential areas tend to be more modern, with designs dominated by straight lines and large windows. This doesn't mean you can't incorporate elements you like from other styles, but keeping in harmony with the surroundings and adjacent buildings is essential.
The main materials used in this housing type are concrete, glass and steel. They are constructions that seek to optimise natural light with large windows and offer open spaces to encourage family interaction. Furthermore, in residential neighbourhoods, outdoor space takes on special relevance so the home may be equipped with porches, terraces or gardens integrated into the overall design.
Don't forget the local regulations and possible restrictions on aesthetics or materials in the neighbourhood where you intend to install your prefabricated house.
How many storeys do I need?
Another question you should consider when deciding which type of prefabricated house is right for you is the number of storeys you need. Single-storey options are always going to be more comfortable than two-storey options. However, this also has drawbacks, as houses with more than one floor provide more intimacy and privacy as not all the rooms are on the same level.
To find out which prefabricated house is for you and how many storeys you need, you can ask yourself these questions:
- Do you think the family will grow?
- Is it your forever home? If so, having more than one floor can be a hassle when you arrive at the same time unless a lift is installed.
- What do you value more, privacy or comfort?
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages between a single-storey house and one with two or more storeys:
Appearance
| Appearance | Single-storey house | Two or more storeys |
| Mobility | - Easy access to all rooms. - Ideal for elderly or people with reduced mobility. | - Need to go up and down stairs. - May not be suitable for elderly or people with reduced mobility. |
| Cost | - Lower cost in roof structure. | - Higher structural costs, due to multiple floors. |
| Space | - Requires a larger floor for the same living area. | - Space can be maximised by dividing rooms into floors. |
| Heating/aircon | - Generally easier to heat and cool down. | - It can be more difficult and costly to air-condition. |
| Intimacy | - Less separation between living and sleeping areas. | - More separation between living and sleeping areas. |
| Maintenance | - Fewer areas to look after in terms of roof and external façade. | - May require more maintenance, especially on the façade and roof. |
| Price | -It may be lower priced. | -It is generally more expensive. |
| Sale price | -It tends to sell more cheaply | -It tends to sell at a higher price. |
I want a strong, durable house
This question is easy to solve. Currently, most prefabricated houses have the same durability as traditional houses. However, you should always carry out the correct maintenance and to choose a good builder. Otherwise, cheap will turn out to be expensive.
I want a prefabricated house that can be relocated
If you want a prefab mobile home, choose between two types and two lifestyles. A 'tiny house' is not the same as a 'mobile home'. The former is literally a complete house with reduced space that you can pull on a trailer. These houses are usually cheaper than traditional houses because of their surface area made from a single-module construction. However, they have everything you need to live in a small space: full kitchen, shower, beds, bathroom, etc. They can even be self-sufficient.
Then there are mobile homes, or prefabricated mobile homes, which are relocatable homes that can be moved on a trailer, although they are somewhat larger. They can consist of one or several modules and are available in different types and materials, such as container houses, wooden houses, sandwich panel houses, etc.
A tiny home is the best option if you want a house that acts as a caravan but is one level up. If you're looking for a more robust home that can be relocated, e.g. you have several plots of land or want to buy another one, a mobile prefabricated home may be a better option.
I want a sustainable prefabricated house
If you want an energy-efficient modular home, the materials it is made of and the installations implemented are the most important. Container houses are one of the most environmentally friendly options available, as they make use of the existing structure of a container, minimising your carbon footprint.
Therefore, if you're looking for a sustainable and efficient prefabricated house, you should pay attention to:
- The finishes.
- Materials.
- Energy installations.
- The design. If the design is bioclimatic, your energy consumption will be minimal.
Choosing a prefabricated house can be exciting and with the wide variety of options available on the market, you are sure to find one that perfectly suits your needs and tastes.