The Complete Guide to Planning a Modular Home You Will Love
Whether you’re planning a modular home for a vacation home in the woods, an Airbnb rental, or even a primary residence – a modular cabin is a fantastic choice. However, the process can sometimes be overwhelming when you consider property selection, permits and zoning, interior and exterior design, site prep, and more.
Every builder has a different process, but the Westwood Cabins team relies on a proven, step-by-step formula that leads to happy homeowners every time. We have standard models, features, and floor plans for modular homes for those who want to keep the process simple. However, if you have specific needs and wants, we can go fully custom!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how effective cabin planning works, while giving you insight into exactly how we manage the process.
Phase 1: Planning a Modular Home
Planning your cabin build means getting the basics right before the fun begins. It might not be the most exciting part of the process, but without it, mistakes happen – and the rest of the process can get messy fast.
#1 Property Selection
Before you can even start thinking about that cabin, you've got to nail down the perfect location – whether that’s somewhere to spend family weekends or make your full-time home. Trust us, choosing the right land makes the rest of the project so much simpler. The spot you choose will need:
- Access to water, sewer, and electricity (or a clear plan for adding them)
- To follow zoning rules for modular homes
- A safe way for trucks to reach the site for delivery
- A price tag that doesn’t put you over budget
If your site ticks all those boxes – you’ve found a winner!
#2 Cabin Selection
Now comes the fun part – picking your cabin! There are a few things to consider, since different cabin styles suit different situations. For example:
- Will this be your primary home or a vacation getaway?
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need for comfort?
- What kind of layout and features do you want – including kitchen style, flooring, windows, roof, and more?
Once you’ve got a clear vision, you’re ready to move forward toward making it a reality.
#3 Contractors and Financing
Now that you know where your home will go and what it will look like, it’s time to take action. Here’s what you need to do:
- Plan your budget for construction, utilities, and upgrades
- Hire contractors who can install the cabin and connect utilities
- Confirm delivery access to your property to avoid delays
- Schedule a timeline for construction and any additional work
This step is important, involving most of the major decisions that will make your build a success.
Phase 2: Home Design Details
The location, floor plan, and budget are officially set. That means you can finally move past the blueprints and start obsessing over the fun stuff – fixtures, colors, and those unique touches that really personalize your space.
#1 Cabin Design Options
Exterior features
The exterior of your cabin is the first thing people notice, so you want it to look great and last for years. Westwood Cabins gives you plenty of structure options, like:
Standard features
- LP Lap siding in any Sherwin-Williams color
- Vinyl single-hung windows with Low E glass
- Metal roof
- Fiberglass exterior door (multiple styles)
Upgrades
- Built-in covered porch
- Gable or transom dormers
- Shingles or standing seam metal roofs
- Double-hung windows with extra color options
Interior features
The next step of your cabin build is to design the interior! Focus on the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. With Westwood Cabins, you’ll get plenty of great standard features to begin with, and then you can layer on custom upgrades until your cabin is exactly what you dreamed of.
Standard features
- Pine walls and ceilings
- LVP flooring in multiple colors
- Custom cabinets with laminate countertops
- Lighting and plumbing fixtures (in black, brushed nickel, or ORB)
Upgrades
- Granite, quartz, or butcher block surfaces
- Custom cabinetry and shelving
- Fireplace, mantel, and decorative beams
- Engineered hardwood flooring
- Loft for extra space
Utility features
Having a beautiful home is great – but one that works efficiently and aligns with your lifestyle? Even better!
Standard utilities
- Plumbing and electrical
- Mini split HVAC system
- Electric tankless water heater
- LED lighting throughout
- 200 AMP electrical service
Upgrades
- Ducted mini split system
- Gas tankless water heater
- Generator connection prep
Try Our FREE 3D Design Tool
This innovative and easy-to-use online tool lets you explore different cabin models, design options, colors, and features in real time. You even get an instant price estimate as you build your custom home.
Whether you want to test out siding options or visualize interior finishes, the Westwood Design Tool is the perfect tool for anyone planning a custom modular cabin.
Here are just a few things you can personalize:
- Siding & roofing
- Door & windows
- Interior walls
- Flooring
- Cabinets & hardware
- Countertops
- Lighting
- ...and more
If selecting every detail overwhelms you, we have standard models and features to make the process very simple! Either way, the Westwood team is always there to guide you!
#2 State and County Permits
Planning for a modular home requires some legwork in your specific geographic area. Before a single shovel hits the ground, you need the “all clear” from your local authorities. This usually means securing a building permit and a septic permit. While you have the option of handling the permit process yourself, it's easy to overlook small regulatory details. It’s essential that you:
- Confirm all specific requirements with your local building department
- Have your certified plans and foundation blueprints ready to go for submission
This is one area where having a good contractor really pays off. They can manage the entire application process for you, which typically prevents delays and headaches.
Phase 3: Cabin Completion
This is the final act, where all your hard work and planning pay off big time.
#1 Site Prep & Delivery
When the prep work is done right, everything lines up perfectly – the foundation fits, the utilities are ready to go, and delivery day is totally stress-free. Here’s what needs to happen:
- Lay the foundation: Your contractor will make sure it’s perfectly aligned and stable.
- Prepare utilities: Water, sewer, and power stubbed in and ready for final hookup.
- Confirm delivery access: Verify the site is clear and accessible for an easy delivery for the next stage.
With solid preparation, you’ll (literally) lay the groundwork for a smooth build.
#2 Construction
The building of your modular home is the best part of the process! One of the biggest advantages of a prefab home is that construction happens in a controlled environment at the same time as site prep, which cuts down overall build time. The best part about choosing a Westwood Cabin is that our skilled craftsmen construct every part of your home with attention to every detail. You don't have to worry about the quality of subs--our crew is top-notch!
While various contractors have a slightly different timeline, here’s what to expect if you opt to work with Westwood:
- Final approvals: Sign off on any last construction documents before production begins.
- 6-week production time: Your cabin is crafted with premium materials and expert attention to detail.
- Progress updates: Your project manager will keep you informed with photos and site updates.
- Clear costs and secure payments: Send any additional funds as required, depending on your finance plan (crane and delivery fees are separate).
#3 Delivery & Inspection
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for – your brand new Westwood Cabin is ready! Just a few more loose ends to tie up:
- Pre-delivery inspection: Walk through and make sure everything looks perfect.
- Final payment: Settle the remaining balance (financing may vary).
- Cabin delivery: Your home is placed on the foundation.
- Utility hookups: Water, septic, and power are connected once approved.
Move in: Time to relax and enjoy your new cabin!
Get the Complete Westwood Modular Home Planning Guide
Planning for a modular home doesn't have to be complicated! For more information on the Westwood Cabins process, check out our downloadable guide. It’s packed with a helpful checklist and everything you need to get started building a bespoke modular home!
Buyer Checklist
Cabin Buying Process
Design and Layout Options
Customization and Upgrade Options
FAQs
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES