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    <title>Manufactured Housing Global Forums</title>
    <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/index.php</link>
    <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
    <language>EN</language>
    <pubDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:01:15 -0400</pubDate>
    <lastBuildDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:01:15 -0400</lastBuildDate>
    <category>Manufactured Housing Global Forums</category>
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    <item>
      <title>[First Time Home Buyers Forum] Re: buying process</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80727,80729#msg-80729</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Excellent question.  Regretfully there is no clear cut standard answer.  Most mortgage loans take 60 to 180 days at this time. The lenders have become conservative to the point of ridiculous.  Even if you are approved the process has been slowed down every step along the way.  The time factor depends on the lenders time response to each stipulation they set for your loan.  Talk to your loan originator or mortgage broker.  They will have the most recent experience and have the best handle on the time frame.  The only thing you can do is to find out in advance all of the documentation your lender will require and start getting it all together as soon as possible]]></description>
      <category>First Time Home Buyers Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80727,80729#msg-80729</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:01:15 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[First Time Home Buyers Forum] buying process</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80727,80727#msg-80727</link>
      <author>mrsdunwoody</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Hey,

I am trying to get info on the home buying process and here is my story. We have land of our own which we will be using as a down payment with our own 5% cash down payment to total 20% down and we will be financing 80%. We have just had the land appraised and are waiting on a commiment letter from the bank so we can go on with the process. Just wondering how long this usually takes and what is next. About how long before we close? Any help would be greatly appreicated!]]></description>
      <category>First Time Home Buyers Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80727,80727#msg-80727</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 06:28:38 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80725#msg-80725</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Exactly!  The new one we looked at was &quot;pretty&quot; but I had a strong feeling that I was going to be paying through the nose for nothing but fancy veneer and a nice color palette.  I leaned against a wall at one point, while taking a picture, and the wall &quot;gave&quot; so much that I thought I might go right through it.  Plus, the cabinets under the island in the kitchen were already separating from the unit. And this MH hadn't even been lived in; it was just a model.  I hate to think how quickly the materials used would disintegrate under real-world living conditions.

The one we've decided to buy is 25 years old but I swear it is better quality than the new one and it has been taken care of.  And I can make sure that any repairs are done with good materials.

Yes, I got lucky with the building inspector - one of the advantages of living in a small, rural county. 

Thanks to everyone for the replies and advice!]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80725#msg-80725</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:10:49 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[First Time Home Buyers Forum] BIG MH LOT For Rent Candler NC</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80721,80721#msg-80721</link>
      <author>doug varrieur</author>
      <description><![CDATA[BIG LOTS FOR RENT, Candler NC
Location! Location! Location! Hidden Valley Drive, Candler NC

Lovely, clean mobile home park in Candler NC. 15 minutes from Asheville, 15 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 3 bedroom and 2 bedroom single wide lots available. Private wooded valley, big lots, great neighbors. Lot rent includes water, sewer, and trash pick up. 5 minutes from shopping. Yet..... you feel like your in the country! 3.5 beautiful acres with only 12 homes. One paved road in for privacy.  Lot rent $300.00 per month.

Call Sherri at 828-926-1563

or E Mail Sherri@Varrieur.com 

Park Like Setting

go here for pictures and info- http://varrieur.com/Doug/HiddenValley.htm]]></description>
      <category>First Time Home Buyers Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?3,80721,80721#msg-80721</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:16:05 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Clayton's new I-House</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,79516,80719#msg-80719</link>
      <author>Portlandia</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I'm not surprised that the I-house isn't doing well - yes, it has green features, but the greenest feature is the margin, as far as I can tell. Aimed at yuppies with large disposable income. I'll have to look at the e-house.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,79516,80719#msg-80719</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:47:53 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80717#msg-80717</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Congratulations !!

Sounds like you got lucky and found a building official that put being human over being in charge.  Your choice of a pre-owned home makes a lot of sense,  New is ALWAYS nice but also expensive.  There are hundreds of thousands previously owned manufactured homes across the country that are perfectly good.  

I know because I live in a 1984 Fleetwood that we purchased in the mid 90's.  We have consistently upgraded improved and expended it and would not trade it for any new home on the market today.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80717#msg-80717</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:12:52 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80715#msg-80715</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Thanks for the input.  I talked to the local building inspector and he is going to give me a waiver on the zone issue.  This is based on the fact that the home is currently less than a mile from where I want to set it up and therefore the weather/climate is the same.  We are aware of possible heating/cooling issues and will upgrade the heat pump (plus there is a woodstove) and install top of the line ceiling fans in all rooms.  And I don't know much about windows, but I know there some sort of good windows (thermalpane?) that can be installed to help with preventing heat loss?

As far as the other zones (roof and wind) they are acceptable. 

The owner is selling this MH for a song as the land he is on was sold out from under him and he has to move.  We were looking at a new doublewide last Saturday and it was 45k to start, and 55k after all extra fees/expenses (such as the heat pump, etc.).  This used MH that we have decided to buy is only going to cost a small fraction of that 55k which leaves me lots and lots of $$ to customize it. YAY!  And it really needs very little to make it very nice. Just paint and new flooring mostly.  The kitchen is going to be completely redone but that is the only major project.  

Thanks for all the advice here, I love this site!]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80715#msg-80715</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:53:46 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Lavy Top Coved</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80711,80713#msg-80713</link>
      <author>rmurray</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Bathroom sink or bath lavatory...some are marble, some are double, some bath counters have cove molding edgeing]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80711,80713#msg-80713</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:38:45 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Lavy Top Coved</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80711,80711#msg-80711</link>
      <author>sathed</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Hi There,

I've been looking at the NADA Manufactured Housing Cost guide, and I've run across a term I'm not familiar with. Under Countertops, it lists:

Lavy Top Coved
Lavy Top Double Bowl
Lavy Top Marble

I'm not familiar with what Lavy means. Thoughts? I've seen it referenced on a couple mobile home sites, but nothing with a defintion.

Thanks!

S]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80711,80711#msg-80711</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:34:53 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum] Re: Abandoned trailer issues</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80709#msg-80709</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Mobile Home Parks are a unique property type as those who hold equity in the home have no ownership of the real-estate under those homes.  Because of this most states have laws in place unique to the operation of mobile home parks.  

For your best source of information on ther rules in youre state contact the West Virginia Housing Institute (formerly the WV Manufactured Housing Association)  304-346-8985.  John R. Teare Jr. is the Association's general counsel. Post Office Box 273, Charleston, WV 25321-0273,  E-Mail  jteare@spilmanlaw.com or phone at (304) 340-3813.]]></description>
      <category>Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80709#msg-80709</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:08:16 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum] Re: Abandoned trailer issues</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80707#msg-80707</link>
      <author>trmimo</author>
      <description><![CDATA[In most states it is pretty easy to obtain an abandoned title.  Ask your lawyer about the particulars in your state, it is usually not too involved or expensive.]]></description>
      <category>Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80707#msg-80707</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:47:23 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80705#msg-80705</link>
      <author>trmimo</author>
      <description><![CDATA[The thermal zones did change in the early 90's as I recall.  The data plate on the home is the one that should be enforced.  The inspector is not supposed to issue a building permit and consequently a certificate of occupancy if the home is not built for the zone it is placed in.  If you did get an exception, you would be the one to suffer as this home would be expensive to heat and difficult to keep comfortable.
A home must be placed in the correct zones for roof load, wind load, thermal (insulation) and for newer homes, humidity.  Remember, these are the minimums to meet code.  There are many used homes available, you can find one that is suited to your area.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80705#msg-80705</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:43:55 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Listing Service Help Desk] Re: What to do with a unwanted single wide</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?9,74800,80703#msg-80703</link>
      <author>kathleenp980</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Thanks you for the post. 
Hi guys, Im a newbie. Nice to join this forum.




__________________
[url=http://moviesonlineworld.com]watch free movies online[/url]]]></description>
      <category>Listing Service Help Desk</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?9,74800,80703#msg-80703</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:51:45 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum] Abandoned trailer issues</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80701#msg-80701</link>
      <author>chadw28</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I have an abandoned trailer in my mobile home park the lady has not been there for 2 yrs now she is on the run from the law and took the title with her I have a couple that are wanting to buy the trailer is that legal ? Would I have to go to the courts or sheriff office to do so I was told in the state of wv by a deputy sheriff that all property after 30 days is legally mine and  to do what I wish to do with it ... Not sure if that is true never had this happen before so looking for answers that would help and also how to go about getting the title for it since it is abandoned thank you .. chad wilson]]></description>
      <category>Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80701,80701#msg-80701</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:01:00 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80699#msg-80699</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Thanks for the quick reply.

I don't know anything about the thermal zone maps other than that the building inspector here told me that VA is in Thermal Zone III.  But I have a picture of the dataplate on the MH in question that shows the US being divided into 3 zones and ONLY Alaska was Zone III.  But they were called &quot;CLIMATE Zones&quot;, not THERMAL zones. There was no mention of thermal zones anywhere on the dataplate.

I can post the pic if that would help.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80699#msg-80699</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:44:33 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Moving a Home when sheet rocked</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80697#msg-80697</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Thanks for the quick reply.

I'm posting my answer in the other thread.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80697#msg-80697</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:28:56 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Moving a Home when sheet rocked</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80695#msg-80695</link>
      <author>rmurray</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I replied to your other post before reading this thread.. Mr Bonney who posed above DOES know much more about VA...Go and try to get a permit from your local building official and find out if it effects you...

The home CANNOT be modified to be re certified..

Changing the data plate would only make it not installable anywhere..Again check with your local building officials...If it cannot go there find another you would have..]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80695#msg-80695</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:49:19 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80693#msg-80693</link>
      <author>rmurray</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Usually the only legal reference to the zone maps is concerning the wind zones.Federal law REQUIRES all home in the coastal areas specifically meet the requirement..I Do not think the thermo zone maps have changed since 1985...In your case I think I would call the local power company and get answers from the horse mouth...Trying to cheat the rules will only cause you more trouble..In my days in the industry, I have never heard of an electric company that had special rules...]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80693#msg-80693</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:41:22 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Exception for Thermal Zones?</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80691#msg-80691</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I posted this as a reply to another topic but I'm not sure it will get seen there so I am posting it again here. Hope that's OK.

Here is my dilemma: My property is directly on the state line between VA and NC. I live in VA and I want to buy a mobile home that is 1/2 mile away in NC and move it onto my property in VA but the MH is rated Zone I. 

However, the MH is an '85 and the dataplate shows a different zone map than what the current maps (on the internet) show.  That dataplate shows the lower half being zone I, the upper half of the US being zone II, and only Alaska being zone III.  The dividing line is still there between NC and VA, though (between Zone I and II).  I was hoping maybe the MH is old enough to not have to meet today's standards for thermal zoning?  Anyone have any idea where a Zone I from '85 would fall under today's standards?

Any advice?  Are exceptions made, maybe for properties that are so close to the state line? Or, can a MH's insulation be modifed to meet the higher code? Can I steal the dataplate off a MH from a Zone III area and substitute it for the dataplate that's in there now? JK!  

Someone once told me that the power company would not hook up the power to a MH that does not meet the zone requirement.  How do they determine what zone it is? Do they have to see the dataplate? What if the dataplate is missing? Or do I just tell them what zone it is? Or do they check that with the building inspector? How does all that work?

Thanks for any advice anyone can offer!]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80691,80691#msg-80691</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:03:05 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Moving a Home when sheet rocked</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80689#msg-80689</link>
      <author>peasantgirl</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Speaking of thermal zones, my property is directly on the state line between VA and NC. I live in VA and I want to buy a mobile home that is 1/2 mile away in NC and move it onto my property in VA but the MH is rated Zone II. I wonder if building inspectors can make exceptions in cases like this?  You can't tell me that the winter weather here is any worse than where that MH currently is sitting a half mile away.

To complicate matters, the MH is an '85 and the dataplate shows a different zone map than what the current maps (on the internet) show.  That dataplate shows the upper half of the US being zone II, the lower half being zone I, and only Alaska being zone III.  The dividing line is still there between NC and Va, though.  I was hoping maybe the MH is old enough to not have to meet today's standards for thermal zoning?

Any advice?  Are exceptions made, maybe for properties that are actually ON the state line? Or, can a MH's insulation be modifed to meet the higher code? Can I steal the dataplate off a MH from a Zone III area and substitute it for the dataplate that's in there now? JK!]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,20682,80689#msg-80689</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:44:38 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] Re: 1994 crestridge 16x76 wiring problem</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80687#msg-80687</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[All circuits in manufactured homes are wired in series.  So, like a string of Xmas lights if one item in the series is not completing the circuit, nothing on that line will work.

I would consider opening every GFI circuit receptacle, fixture and switch in, on and under the home one at a time to see if the problem is a disconnected wire.  That would include the baths, the exterior lights, and the heat tape receptacle.  

All manufactured homes, even those built in the south have a GFI protected electric outlet installed under the home.  This is so a heat tape can be  wrapped around the water riser to prevent freezing.   You will find this at the point where water is hooked up under the home, most times directly under the water heater.  If this outlet was damaged in transport or during installation it could be the source of the problem depriving the rest of the CGI circuit of power. 

Patriot homes was forced into bankruptcy.  I doubt that you will have much luck finding any wiring diagrams.  Many factories outsourced their warranty work to local contractors.  If you can find someone, in your area, that has  considerable experience working on Patriots they may have diagrams.... or know if this was a common or reoccurring problem with the brand.  In that case they may be able to finger the problem very quickly. 

If you can not locate the problem, running a new circuit is relatively easy with a manufactured home.  You can run new circuits in conduit under the home avoiding the need to open up walls, saving a load of work and mess inside the home.

Let us know what you find.  Good Luck!!]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80687#msg-80687</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:49:53 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] Re: 1994 crestridge 16x76 wiring problem</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80685#msg-80685</link>
      <author>stevendrgac</author>
      <description><![CDATA[the GFCI is not the problem. there is no current reaching the outlet. every other light and outlet in the home works properly. it is very frustrating. i believe Patriot Homes manufactured Crestridge. thanks.]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80685#msg-80685</guid>
      <pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 10:26:41 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] Re: 1994 crestridge 16x76 wiring problem</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80681#msg-80681</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I am not familiar with your particulate brand home... but many MH builders use inline GFI breaker outlets.  The breaker is built into one of the bathroom receptacles.   Often you will find that the exterior lights and receptacle also run off the inline breaker.

Check in your bathrooms for an outlet with small buttons on it.   When you find it reset the breaker by pushing the button on the face of the receptacle.  If there are 2 buttons, one is the reset and one is a test button.  

The GFI in my house trips often after a heavy rain when too much moisture gets into the lights on the corners of my porch.... when they dry out they start to work properly again. Check to see if any of your outside fixtures or outlets are getting moisture.

If it will not reset you may have a ground fault problem or the receptacle/breaker may need to be replaced.  You can find replacements in most electric supply departments


LIFTED FROM The Natural Handyman http://www.naturalhandyman.com/iip/infelectrical/infgfi.html#5

...&quot;A GFI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, is an automatic device that offers personal protection against electrical shock. They are installed in areas where known electrical shock hazards exist... outdoor outlets and fixtures, swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs, outlets in kitchens, basements, bathrooms, and garages. Wherever there is the potential for contact between a person and an electrical appliance in or near moisture, water, or water pipes, a GFI should be protecting the circuit... and you! 

All GFIs, have two testing-related buttons on them. One button is appropriately labeled TEST, and one is labeled RESET. Turn on an appliance or light fixture connected to the GFI. Press the TEST button, and the appliance should immediately turn off. If it does not, either the GFI is miswired, there is a problem with other wiring in the same circuit, or the GFI has malfunctioned and should be replaced. Pressing the RESET button will restore power to the appliance or circuit. 

Conversely, if you have a GFI that has tripped and will not reset, you may have a wiring short in the circuit, a defective appliance on the circuit, or the GFI itself has become defective. 

The easiest way to troubleshoot a GFI is to obtain a GFI tester, available at most hardware stores. It plugs into the GFI outlet, and will supply you with a &quot;snapshot&quot; of your connections, indicating wiring problems and/or the condition of the GFI. 

Over time, a GFI will become more sensitive to minor variations in current that are caused by certain types of appliances. Hair dryers and space heaters are notorious for stressing and tripping GFIs. Replacing the GFI will help solve this problem, though it may recur eventually as the new GFI ages.&quot;]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80681#msg-80681</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:28:55 -0400</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] 1994 crestridge 16x76 wiring problem</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80679#msg-80679</link>
      <author>stevendrgac</author>
      <description><![CDATA[we have recently purchased a 1994 crestrige 2x2. all the outlets work except the GFCI's in the bathroom. this causes a serious problem. can anyone help? i have tested the circuits and can't find where the power is coming from. i have ohm'ed the outlets and can't find the point in the breaker box where they connect. there are two in the master bath and one in the other. help please.]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80679,80679#msg-80679</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:26:33 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Adding a mobile to new land</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80659,80675#msg-80675</link>
      <author>Celtlund</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I don't know where you are in Texas, but we are just over the border in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. We purchased our own land then went to Greg Tilley's in Bossier to buy our home. The price of the home we purchased was about $100,000.00 and the cost of site prep, septic, etc came to about $12,000.00 We had water at the street near the property so we did not have to have a well drilled. The property cost us $22,000.00 so the total came to about $134,000.00. All of the cost for the land, prep, and house were rolled together for one mortgage.
Some of the MF home dealers have land-home packages and can put a package together for you, or you can purchase your own land and the dealer will make arrangements for the site prep and utilities. Prep prices will vary quite a bit depending on availability of water, electric, and sewer (or septic) at your property.
If you haven't purchased a MH before I highly recommend you purchase and read John Grisssom's books. They will answer a lot of questions about the purchase process and help you to find a good quality home that you can afford. Lots of good tips in those books. Happy home hunting.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80659,80675#msg-80675</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:53:50 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] Re: AC inlet chase</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80673#msg-80673</link>
      <author>jimfflih</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Thank you very much. Going under the house and looking up.........not sure why I didn't think of that. Great idea saved me from cutting a hole in the wall. You have been a tremendous help!!]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80673#msg-80673</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:46:22 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] Re: AC inlet chase</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80671#msg-80671</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[The air/hear riser should minimally be a metal duct inside that chase.  The code has no requirement for insulating duct work that is between the interior floor and ceiling.  Merit builds a superior product.  Most of their features are well above average.  From your comments it sounds apparent that the duct is not insulated.

I have the same situation in my 1984 Fleetwood.  The cabinet under our hall bath sink is very cool in summer and warm in winter, as are  the kitchen cabinets on the opposite side of that wall containing the chase.  I have had &quot;blow insulation into the chase&quot; on my to-do list for many years but have never gotten around to it. 

There is always the possibility that a section of the duct work has come loose.  Stranger things have happened as a manufactured home rocks and rolls towards its installation destination.  

I suggest that you follow the flex duct work from the air unit to where it is connected under the home.  Disconnect the flex and have a peak up the duct work using a flashlight.   

If it looks as if the duct work is in good repair you can find insulation at Lowes or Home Depot that can be blown into the chase way around the duct work by making a reasonably small hole in a wall of the chase.  This is usually the most efficient way to insulate the duct and keep the cold air from escaping to places where you really don't need that much and at the same time increasing the efficacy of your cooling system.]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80671#msg-80671</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:42:06 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation] AC inlet chase</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80669#msg-80669</link>
      <author>jimfflih</author>
      <description><![CDATA[I have a 2004 Homes of Merit 28 X 80. My AC comes into the house in a hollow section of the wall by the 2nd bathroom. You can feel alot of cold air leaking out of the wall under the bathroom cabinet and the light switch. My question is: is the corner of the wall a hollow chase and leads up to the duct work in the ceiling or is there duct work in the wall that must have come apart. The only way to find out other wise is to cut a hole in the wall under the bathroom cabinet and look inside.]]></description>
      <category>Manufactured Home Repair &amp; Renovation</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?8,80669,80669#msg-80669</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:19:26 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert] Re: Adding a mobile to new land</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80659,80667#msg-80667</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Sounds like your getting ready to start an exciting chapter on the road to homeownership.  

The first best option is to find a reputable manufactured housing retailer (dealer) in your area that you are comfortable working with.  There is a long &quot;to do&quot; list that you will need to work through to accomplish your goal and it is best to work with reliable professionals that have experience managing all phases of this project.

A few of the areas you need to gain a good understanding of are
Site Preparation 
Foundation Options Including local and financing requirements
Installing Utilities 
Home Installation 
Utility  connections 
Air/Heat  options and installation 
The most effective way  to learn about the step by step process involved in properly installing a manufactured home is the great DVD video series with George Porter, the industry's most respected installation specialist. Manufactured Housing Site Preparation &amp; Installation  A TWO HOUR DVD VIDEO SEMINAR

After viewing these videos you will have what it takes to tackle your site preparation with confidence and peace of mind. Even though you're not planning on doing the work yourself, this information will help you understand the entire process. AND give you an edge when choosing a retailer and sub-contractors and help you make sure your home is installed properly.]]></description>
      <category>Ask The Manufactured Housing Expert</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?2,80659,80667#msg-80667</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:43:49 -0400</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>[Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum] Re: buying one Mobile home at a time</title>
      <link>http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80661,80665#msg-80665</link>
      <author>David Oxhandler</author>
      <description><![CDATA[Individual manufactured homes can make an excellent investments.   In most parts of the country they bring the same or very close to the same rent as a like sized apartment with a considerably lower cost to purchase making your return on investment higher. I have been doing this happily for close to 30 years and have consistently grown my income.

Start by reading the classic MH investment book Deals On Wheels by Lonnie Scruggs,  the &quot;Father&quot; and &quot;Master&quot; of the used manufactured home business. Lonnie shares his many years of experience and shows you how to make fantastic profits in one of the least recognized, yet best money making business in the country. 

Lonnie talks mostly about buying homes in parks but the lessons he teaches can be applied to home and land investing.  You can read his article archive at no cost here on our site.

If you are seeking financial independence read Stu Silver's (Zalman Velvel)  Articles for investors  I love his humor and appreciated his total understanding of MH as investment.  I read his first book  Mobile Home Wealth (Part One)  .... all 376 pages, in a single sitting.  I just couldn't put it down.  He outlines 4 basic profit strategies with his real-life experiences  that cover every step of the Investment Process. 

Tony Colella &amp; Scott St. Aubin  have co-authored 5 unique home study courses for mobile home investors.  You can read Tony's articles on line, and then move on to  Investing in Mobile Homes with Land . It is an easy-to-read, &quot;real world&quot; guide to creating and developing mobile home/land deals for cash flow and long-term wealth. 

Please return here and let us know what you think of these ideas or to discuss investing topics anytime.]]></description>
      <category>Mobile Home Park Investment &amp; Management Forum</category>
      <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.mobilehome.com/phorum5/read.php?5,80661,80665#msg-80665</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 09:56:48 -0400</pubDate>
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