A fresh wave of affordable housing is on the horizon for Visalia, California, as a significant expansion of manufactured homes rolls forward at Rancho Fiesta Mobile Estates. The project, led by Family Homes based in Chino, reflects a broader shift toward factory-built housing as a practical solution to California’s worsening affordability crisis.

On May 2, Rancho Fiesta celebrated the completion of three new manufactured homes with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the launch of Phase Two of development. The event drew community members, homebuyers, and housing advocates eager to tour the newly installed models and learn more about what’s to come.

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A Vision Built for the Future

David Franzoni, CEO of Family Homes and a veteran of the manufactured housing industry for over three decades, said this project is more than just construction—it’s about changing perceptions.

The Visalia project, which is expected to deliver a total of 105 homes, is being rolled out in phases. Following the success of a 10-home model complex in Phase One, Phase Two introduces 11 additional lots. By June, Phase Three will commence, with plans to complete 10–11 homes per month over the next 10 months.

Each home is a collaboration between Skyline Homes, part of the national powerhouse Champion Homes, and Family Homes. The houses are built to about 60-70% completion at the factory, then finished on-site. They range in size from 800 to 1,440 square feet and offer customizable features like exterior colors, flooring, and cabinetry.

Built to Last And Built to Live In

Franzoni emphasized the durability and quality of today’s manufactured homes. Unlike the stereotypical “trailers” of decades past, these homes have a projected lifespan of up to 175 years, significantly longer than the 30-year average of older models. Every home also comes with a warranty of up to seven years.

Beyond the craftsmanship, these homes are being sought after by younger buyers, especially those aged 25 to 45, who are feeling the pressure of California’s rising home prices.

Community Living

Most manufactured home communities, like Rancho Fiesta, operate on a land-lease model, where homeowners own the structure but rent the land on which it sits. However, what might sound like a downside is often offset by community amenities such as pools, clubhouses, and green spaces—features typically found in much more expensive neighborhoods.

Despite a lack of new mobile home park development, primarily due to longstanding rent control measures in places like Fresno, interest in manufactured housing is increasing. With a 40% increase in mobile home sales over the past decade, the last three years have shown powerful momentum.

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A New Era for Manufactured Housing

Whether it’s helping families displaced by wildfires or first-time buyers looking for a foothold in a tough market, developments like Rancho Fiesta are proving that manufactured housing isn’t just a backup plan; it’s a future-forward solution to California’s housing crisis.