Frequently Asked Questions
LATEST
Why aren’t there any garages?
This relates directly to the land cost. Garages would come at the expense of homes and our studies tell us that people would be unwilling to pay the necessary rent. However, we are aware that there may be demand and have allowed for several shop/garages if there is enough demand. They would likely be located on the perimeter of the property.
Couldn’t I just buy a house for the same amount of money as some have suggested?
NO! The median cost of a home in the area is nearly $300,000. You would be responsible for all your own insurance, snow, lawn care, etc. as well. Most of these homes are very old and poorly insulated. They require a great deal of maintenance. Our Manufactured Homes are brand new and built to current Building Codes. They include a manufacturers warranty. There is no land in the City for the construction of new homes and, if there were, those homes would sell for over $500,000. In fact – homes are being purchased for nearly $300,000 and being torn down to build new homes. There are no miracles.
Aren’t the homes too close together?
The Code for separation of homes in a Manufactured Housing Community is 13’-6”. Some homes have more separation where we had significant trees to save. The fact is most homes in Minneapolis and inner suburbs are separated by only 10 feet. Once the utility and road work are complete the grass will be restored, and we will have a true park like setting. In an apartment or condominium, you would have 6 inches of separation. You would have foot traffic on the floor above you. You would often have to walk many hallways to access your unit. Here – you park right outside your door.
Are the homes a good value?
The land cost is no different than for a typical home. The average size home in St Anthony is 1100 square feet and nearly $300,000. On average it is over 60 years old. Our homes are brand new and built to current Building Codes – just like a typical home. We can sell that same square footage for a fraction of the cost with 1155 square foot three-bedroom homes starting just under $100,000! The savings are in the cost and climate-controlled manufacturing environment. The labor rates for manufactured housing is a fraction of the nearly $100 per hour for building tradesmen in the field. The homes are a fantastic value.
Isn’t it a lot for a mobile home?
These are manufactured homes – not mobile homes. Mobile homes were trailers with little or no insulation and build like an RV. They have only one thing in common – they arrive on wheels. Our homes are transported with the use of as many as six axles to carry the home to its foundation which, by the way, consists of 16-20 concrete pilings that are identical to a typical home. They are permanently secured and meet all applicable Building Codes. The homes can be moved in theory, but it would not be cost effective due to the cost of installation. The cost of utility hookups and foundations is no different than for a typical home. These substantial costs are included in your purchase price and all our water mains, streets, and utilities are brand new. The power panels and air conditioners are brand new. There is no community like it anywhere in the State of Minnesota.
How do the costs compare to a traditional home?
Less than half in most cases. In fact, new construction apartments rent for well over $2.50 per square foot per month. This would equate to $2,310 per month for a new three-bedroom apartment. You would not build equity. Our total costs are around half that and you OWN your home.
Will there be any double-wide homes?
Yes, there are several models to choose from.
GENERAL
Is this a 55+ home community?
No. As of 4/21/2020 Urban Grove removed the age restriction policy.
Are pets allowed?
Yes. Residents are allowed up to two domesticated animals per home.
Will there be any area for tiny homes?
No, only manufactured homes will be allowed in the community.
Will there be RV’s allowed?
No, only manufactured homes will be allowed in the community.
Will there be driveways?
Each home will have a private parking pad.
Will there be storage units?
Each resident will be provided with one shed on their lot. No other sheds/storage units are allowed on individual home sites.
HOMES
How many models are there? What are they?
The amount of models available will vary as homes are installed and sold in the community. Different manufacturers with 2‐3 Bedroom floor plans may be available to tour from time to time.
What is the criteria for bringing a home into the park?
Only 2019 and newer homes that are approved by management will be allowed in the community. See Manufactured Home Criteria
Is customization available?
Specific homes may be ordered. Management must be contacted to discuss on an individual basis.
Are floor plans available to see?
Available floor plans are posted on our website and available to tour in the community.
PURCHASE/RENT
Will there be homes available for rent or just for purchase?
Homes are available for purchase only. Various financing options are available that make a home purchase similar or even less than rental rates on a smaller, older apartment in the area.
What is the lot rent?
Current monthly lot rents range from the mid $800s to $900s depending on lot size and additional services selected.
What is included in the rent?
The lot rent includes trash service, lawn maintenance & snow removal of roads. Additional services for curbside trash pickup and parking pad snow removal are available for a an additional fee. Residents pay utilities (gas, electric, cable, etc.) directly.