Why the future is prebuilt, transportable homes
If the word ‘prefab’ conjures up images of asbestos cladding and boxy school classrooms, then we’re sorry to say you’re well and truly behind the times.
Also referred to as panel, modular or transportable homes, builds that are largely (if not completely) built offsite are becoming increasingly sophisticated… and popular.
Here at Ezyline Homes we have seen an upsurge in sales more people are switching onto the significant benefits of buying a relocatable home.
This has prompted us to open a second yard and showhome in Feilding and we already built a number of homes for customers in the Lower North Island.
It’s becoming increasingly clear that the future of housing is prefabricated. Here’s why…
It’s a growing global trend.
In Sweden 84% of detached homes are prefabricated. The components are manufactured during winter, and the homes erected in summer. Which begs the question, why not here? New Zealanders have been using prefabricated homes since the early settlers.
Perceptions and capabilities are changing at pace. Beautiful, affordable, and individual homes are now easily available in New Zealand. Ezyline homes have a range of Traditional and Contemporary plans.
Technology is advancing every day.
Overseas we are seeing large-scale factories producing 100,000 prefabricated homes a year – and this is only set to grow.
Increasingly sophisticated automation technologies are resulting in greater efficiencies and cost-savings. In short, in the future expect to see higher quality homes, at cheaper prices.
Consent processes are set to change.
Prefab NZ is working hard behind the scenes to achieve a more streamlined consent process for the industry. This would create time and cost-saving efficiencies for both developers and individual homeowners. Removing some of the consent roadblocks will likely increase demand for prebuilt homes.
The banks are getting on board.
Previously, transportable homes were considered high risk by banks. But Westpac now offers a Prebuilt home loan, and other banks are likely to follow suit. Kiangaora and KiwiSaver are also onboard with the transportable home option.
There are a couple of extra requirements, including additional insurance cover during the initial stages of construction and transportation to site, but this makes prebuilt homes that much more accessible, opening up the market to more people.
The Government is getting on board.
Kainga Ora also has an OSM department dedicated to off-site manufacturing, signalling a move towards prebuilt homes to meet future housing needs. And there are also moves afoot to introduce 10-year building plans for developers and building companies, which will allow those in the prefab industry to commit to upscaling their operations.
Community housing is reaping the benefits.
Prebuilt housing is a very cost-effective solution for community housing providers and can be put in place with minimal disruption.
Kiwis are staying put.
The pandemic has meant more Kiwis both returned home, and stayed home., Disposable incomes are being redirected into projects at home. As a result, we have seen an increase in prebuilt homes being purchased as second dwellings, from granny flats for elderly parents, to accommodate adult children returning from overseas.
And with most of our building materials, including all our structures, cladding, GIB, and roofing, produced here in New Zealand, we are proud to be supporting local.
And finally… mindsets are changing.
People are learning that prebuilt doesn’t have to mean small. Where once our most popular plan was a 60sqm 2 bedroom home, we are now seeing greater demand for our larger homes, with one of our most popular plans now being the 3 bedroom, 100sqm home with an ensuite.
You might be surprised at how much prebuilt homes have changed over the past 30 years!
Summary:
Transportable homes are shaking off their old reputation. This post explores how modern prefab homes offer quality, efficiency, and sustainability—making them a smart and forward-thinking choice for New Zealand homeowners.
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Buying a transportable home is a big decision. Whether it’s for your main residence, a holiday retreat, worker accommodation, or a secondary dwelling, there are several moving parts to consider beyond just the floor plan.
If you’ve been researching what to look for when buying a transportable home, this is our checklist to help you make an informed choice.
Site Suitability & Access
Before falling in love with a layout, start by investigating whether your site is suitable for a transportable build. Rural and urban sites present different challenges. Narrow driveways, tight turning circles, overhead power lines, or limited access can all influence delivery.
An early site assessment gives your transportable home builder a chance to determine if there are any restrictions to the type of home that will work for your property.
Learn more about what’s involved in the transport and installation phase in our Transportable Homes Delivery Process.
Build Quality, Materials & NZ Compliance
Transportable homes have to comply with the New Zealand Building Code, just like any other residential build. That includes things like structural durability, insulation standards, moisture management, and seismic considerations.
Builds completed in a controlled environment have advantages because construction happens under predictable conditions, allowing for tighter tolerances and greater consistency when installing elements such as insulation and glazing.
When comparing your options, take into account the factors that make for a comfortable home - insulation, glazing, weather performance, and overall longevity of the materials being used.
Read more about how offsite construction improves building outcomes in Why Choose Transportable Homes.
Design Flexibility & Lifestyle Fit
Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a holiday retreat, or accommodation for workers, considering the right layout based on how you’ll use the home will make the biggest difference to how the property is enjoyed.
Purpose of the home
The intended use of your home significantly influences the features and layout you should prioritise. Here are a few common purposes:
- Additional accommodation for extended family: If the home will serve as extra space for family members, consider their comfort and privacy. Features like multiple bedrooms, a separate bathroom, and a cosy living area can make the space more inviting.
- Holiday home: For a holiday property, prioritise low-maintenance features, easy access to outdoor areas, and amenities that enhance relaxation, such as a deck and outdoor living spaces.
- Worker accommodation: Practicality and durability are key for worker housing. Ensure the home is equipped with sufficient amenities, durable materials, and adequate space for comfortable living.
- Granny flat: Usability and preparing for the future are key considerations. If the person using the home is advanced in years, we can prepare the home by making doors flush entry, putting timber in the walls for future grab rails and making doorways wider for future wheelchair access.
The size of the Home
The number of bedrooms is a fundamental consideration when selecting a transportable home. Think about your current and future needs. If you have a growing family or anticipate hosting guests, opting for additional bedrooms can provide comfort and flexibility.
Bathrooms are another important factor, particularly in homes with multiple occupants. A second bathroom can be a game-changer, reducing morning rush hour stress and providing privacy.
The flow of the home
Customising the orientation of your floorplan to suit your needs goes a long way in helping to make your transportable home tick all the boxes when a standard floor plan doesn’t quite fit the bill.
Whether you’re looking to prioritise open plan living, need plenty of accommodation for all the extended family, or storage is top on your list, considering a floor plan which is tailored to include all the amenities you need is an important consideration to ensure your transportable home fits your lifestyle for years to come.
To explore layouts, view all our transportable house plans or if you want to skip the wait, browse our range of transportable homes available now.
The Build & Delivery Process
One of the biggest differences between a traditional build and a transportable home is where the work happens.
Instead of months of on-site activity, your home is constructed in a controlled environment before being transported and installed on prepared foundations. Timelines can vary depending on a few different factors, but these builds allow more certainty in scheduling and are less likely to run over.
While many transportable, modular, prefab, and kitset homes come in a range of sizes and orientations, often a more customised approach is necessary to achieve the perfect layout for your needs.
Check out the top things to consider when choosing the perfect transportable home for you:
Purpose of the home
The intended use of your home significantly influences the features and layout you should prioritise. Here are a few common purposes:
Additional accommodation for extended family: If the home will serve as extra space for family members, consider their comfort and privacy. Features like multiple bedrooms, a separate bathroom, and a cosy living area can make the space more inviting.
Holiday home: For a holiday property, prioritise low-maintenance features, easy access to outdoor areas, and amenities that enhance relaxation, such as a deck and outdoor living spaces.
Worker accommodation: Practicality and durability are key for worker housing. Ensure the home is equipped with sufficient amenities, durable materials, and adequate space for comfortable living.
Granny flat: Usability and preparing for the future are key considerations. If the person using the home is advanced in years, we can prepare the home by making doors flush entry, putting timber in the walls for future grab rails and making doorways wider for future wheelchair access.
Number of bedrooms
The number of bedrooms is a fundamental consideration when selecting a transportable home. Think about your current and future needs. If you have a growing family or anticipate hosting guests, opting for additional bedrooms can provide comfort and flexibility. Even if the home is intended as a holiday retreat or worker accommodation, having extra rooms can enhance privacy and convenience.
Number of bathrooms
Bathrooms are another important factor, particularly in homes with multiple occupants. A second bathroom can be a game-changer, reducing morning rush hour stress and providing privacy. Consider the number of people who will use the home regularly and whether additional bathrooms are necessary to meet their needs.
Separate laundry area
A dedicated laundry area is a practical feature that many overlook. A separate laundry room can help keep the rest of the home organised and clutter-free. Whether you're washing beach towels from a day at the holiday home or uniforms in a worker accommodation setting, a designated laundry space adds convenience and functionality.
Customisable layouts
The ability to pick your preferred finishes including paint colours, floor coverings, joinery, and appliances is an easy way to help make your transportable home feel like your own. Customising the orientation of your floorplan to suit your needs goes a long way in helping to make your transportable home tick all the boxes when a standard floor plan doesn’t quite fit the bill.
Whether you’re looking to prioritise open plan living, need plenty of accommodation for all the extended family, or storage is top on your list, considering a floor plan which is tailored to include all the amenities you need is an important consideration to ensure your transportable home fits your lifestyle for years to come.
Living area size
The living area is the heart of any home, where family and friends gather to relax and socialise. The size of the living area should align with your lifestyle and how you plan to use the space. For those who love entertaining, a larger living area may be ideal. Conversely, if the home is a secondary residence or for temporary use, a more compact living space might suffice with the extra floor plan used for additional bedrooms or storage.
Kitchen and dining area
The kitchen and dining area are crucial spaces for daily living. Consider the size and layout of the kitchen, especially if you enjoy cooking. A well-designed kitchen with ample counter space, storage, and modern appliances can make meal preparation a pleasure. The dining area should comfortably accommodate the number of people you expect to dine regularly.
Storage space
Lack of storage is often a pain point in any home. Evaluate the available storage options, including closets, cabinets, and potential external storage like sheds or garages. Ample storage helps keep the home organised and clutter-free, contributing to a more pleasant living environment.
Keen to find out more? Check out our full range of standard floor plans here or get in touch to chat with our friendly team about how we can help bring your transportable home to life.