Have you considered a mobile home?

While not for all, it certainly is an alternative for many. I have helped Seniors who have sold traditional housing get into senior mobile home parks. They like the downsize,  the community and the convenience. I have helped many first time home buyers purchase a mobile home. They did not have enough to invest in traditional housing but wanted a space of their own with not sharing walls.

If you take your time, have a good agent{like me :0)} and do your homework you can find yourself a nice mobile home that is comfortable and easy on your budget.

Mobile Homes cannot be appraised as regular residential homes. Basically it boils down to what a seller is willing to let the mobile home go for and the buyer is willing to pay. There are very few lenders who will do mobile homes.

I have a good relationship with a lender who will finance both Pre-HUD and HUD homes. What does this mean?

Pre HUD were built before 1976 and did not have certain health and safety mandates that are now required after those built  after 1976. It doesn't mean all of those built before 1976 are bad. There was just no standards and some models were built more safely and solid than others.

Most mobile home parks will allow pets upon approval. Some have size and weight restriction as well as number restriction.