By Chrissy Jackson 2/99

Manufactured homes allow you to live where you want, not where someone else has decided to build. When you purchase a manufactured home, you have an opportunity to decide where you want to live so that you can enjoy the lifestyle you desire.

If you place your home on private property, you might want to live on one of Florida’s lakes where you can enjoy boating all year long. Or, you may choose to live in a subdivision where recreational facilities are included. Some planned developments also include huge clubhouses, a lake for boating and swimming as well as a private fishing dock for hours of peaceful enjoyment. Others have a nature area for walking and picnics. Paved, private roads are convenient for walkers and joggers as they put in their miles every day.

With the great weather in Florida, you can plan on living a large part of your life in the beautiful outdoors, if you wish. And huge “Florida rooms” help bring the outside in and allow you a breath of fresh air even while remaining in your own home. Whether you choose to place your home on private property, in a subdivision or a community, you’ll find that many have decks, patios, and porches. There’s no need to feel “closed up” when you live in a manufactured home in Florida.

If you decide to live in an established community, ask about the amenities offered and take a tour. Find out about planned activities and get a calendar for the current month. Most community managers will invite you to take part in an upcoming event as a guest. Take advantage of that to meet the other residents who may soon be your neighbors.

Be aware that the extent of facilities varies from one community to another. Be sure you understand what is included with your monthly fee and what is not. There may be user fees charged for using some of the facilities.

Typical recreational facilities often include clubhouse with kitchen and meeting rooms, pool tables, exercise or fitness room as well as a crafts room (some with kilns and other equipment). Swimming pools are a common feature and you will often find hot tubs, sauna, shuffleboard courts, tennis courts, picnic areas, hiking trails and fishing on the grounds.

Golf course communities not only offer the chance to play a round without leaving home, but usually have homesites with breathtaking views of the course itself.

What’s available to you also depends on the developer of the community as well as the location. Many times shopping is within walking distance. That can also bring you the convenience of department or speciality stores, movie theaters, book stores and grocery stores.

Homes can be designed to let in the beautiful Florida sunshine. To receive the most benefit from the floor plan you choose, take it with you when you look for a place to locate your home. Look at where the sun will come up, which room will receive those first morning rays, and where the sunset can be viewed. Think about shade, too, when you choose a homesite or lot. The natural beauty of nature can help you keep your home cooler in the summer.

The location of your manufactured home -- and the recreational facilities available -- enable you to live the lifestyle you want and deserve. Check out the opportunities before you decide. Then enjoy your new life in a Florida manufactured home!

Chrissy Jackson, ACM,PHC, has been involved in the manufactured home industry since 1980 and is now a Communities Specialist with Steiner Communities in Tampa, Florida. She is also a nationally recognized author with several publications currently on the market.