Comparing prefab models is a process of filtering and narrowing down the list of possible choices. The number of prefab models available today in Europe and the UK is quite extensive.
As a result, most people find the process of looking for a prefab house overwhelming. It is easy to get lost in the comparison when the products we are analysing share few characteristics since they are most likely designed to serve unique, yet different purposes.
Define your priorities to filter your prefab model search
To succeed in our prefab house model comparison it is essential to define our priorities. Take some time to analyse your domestic habits as well as your possibilities before diving into any model research or comparison.
- Indicate your budget: Limiting the offer to what you can afford is essential to be realistic in the model comparison and avoid feeling frustrated in the process. The value displayed when scrolling through the different prefabricated houses isn’t the final price but the starting price. Important costs such as land preparation, on-site house assembling, or building permits have to be added to the base price to get a real understanding of the final price.
- Define the number of bedrooms: Generally, the size of a prefab model is defined by the number of bedrooms. In the model search language, a bedroom is any room except for the kitchen, living-dining room, or bathroom. Therefore, if you would like your house to include areas such as a home office or a TV room, you must count them as bedrooms.
- Specify your location: It is essential to make sure that all the models you are comparing can be shipped to your site. Indicate the country where your prefab home will be delivered and assembled. This step is essential since not all manufacturers are equipped to build a house in your location.
Compare the different prefab models of your selection
The search feature provided by Spassio is a great tool to start the prefab model comparison since it helps filter the results based on your main priorities. Still, to simplify the comparison, we should keep filtering the selection manually.
The first comparisons are basically visual, we will decide which models we keep and which ones we drop by looking at the images provided by the manufacturer. As the selection gets smaller, we can start looking into more technical details.
1. Select your preferred aesthetic
This is quite an easy step since it basically consists of choosing which houses look beautiful to you and which ones don’t. The simpler way to identify which designs appeal the most is by scrolling through the different model pictures. You’ll see that even if you know nothing about architectural styles you will be able to identify your preferred aesthetic by simply observing your reactions.
Look at the general picture of each model and ask yourself: “Do I see myself living in this house?”. If the answer is yes, keep it. If the answer is no, eliminate it from your list.
2. Check the different layouts
Look at the floorplan distribution and compare the approaches taken in the different models. Some might be designed as one-story houses, others as multiple stories.
Some have a kitchen designed as an independent room, while others have an open floor plan where the kitchen and dining area share the same space. Recreate your domestic habits and ask yourself. “Which layout will serve my family best?”.
3. Consider what is included in the prefab house package
While comparing different models, look at the initial package defined for each modular house which in most cases includes the house structure, finishes and fixtures. Still, these features vary from model to model and some prefabs are delivered to you turn-key.
If you need to move in right away, a fully furnished prefab model that is already equipped with all the necessary appliances might be a good fit for you. Take some time to think about which option works best for you and select those models catering for your needs. Notice that some manufacturers Such as Woodville or Tiny Home Romania allow the modification of the initial package.
4. Analyse the customisation options offered by each model
When comparing prefabricated homes, we are generally comparing pre-designed houses. All these models are already designed but they can often be personalised. The amount of personalization allowed by each model depends on the manufacturer: some allow only minor modifications such as choosing the finishing materials or colours.
Others offer more freedom and big modifications such as adding a room are possible. If the possibility to personalise the design is something you might be interested in, choose a model designed by a manufacturer equipped to offer extensive modifications or even bespoke designs.
5. Look into the model’s technical details
Looking into elements such as the materials used can offer us further information about the house design but also the quality or energy performance of the model. Materials such as those used to insulate the walls of the house can help reduce energy consumption bills since good insulation contributes to improved energy efficiency.
The basic information of every model can be found in its description box but for a more in-depth understanding of its construction, it can be helpful to request further detailed technical information as offered by UpHut OÜ.
Check the track record of the models in your final selection
At this stage, your list of prefab models should be enormously reduced. You have already eliminated from your comparison list all those models that aren’t designed or built in a way that satisfies your priorities.
This last step of the model comparison will help you eliminate those products with a negative track record that have shown problems before.
Main things to analyse in this last comparison:
- Check the reviews from past clients: Knowing how is the experience of purchasing, building and living in this model can be incredibly helpful. If you know someone who went through this process you can ask them. Though, nowadays you will definitely find multiple reviews online.
- Visit a finished house: This isn’t always possible but some manufacturers such as Šuuna or VMODUL offer the possibility of visiting an already-finished house. This is the best way to examine the constructed model since you can see it by yourself.
- See if you can obtain financing: With the information provided about the model, you can make a fast request to your bank to know if they offer financing for this type of construction. Still, to be safe, you can choose a model designed by a manufacturer such as VMODUL which collaborates with popular banks to help you obtain financing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best prefab house model?
The best prefab house model is different for every person since it is a model that is designed and built in a way that satisfies our priorities.
What’s the difference between prefab models and modular home models?
Modular home models are a type of prefab model. Prefab models are all those models in which the construction process takes place off-site in a factory environment. Still, they can be manufactured using a wide range of construction methods such as modular construction.