Discussions

My family is in the market to make a move close/closer/into/near Brandon. I've looked at real estate in Brandon, and although it is what I was expecting, I've been exploring my options, as I believe should be done in any life altering decision.  
 
I am not sure how to word my question, but I'll do my best. First and foremost, I'm not wanting a big house. In face it is quite the opposite, smaller is the best. I've been looking at land that could be developed near to Brandon, and I did find something that I would be interested in, but then I would need to build or move a house onto it.. I've looked into RTM homes and frankly not too impressed, I mean, it all looks nice and fancy online, but we all know how it could fall apart with a sneeze if not done properly (or so research has told me). A 1000sqft-1500sqft house would be totally fine. Doesn't even need a basement. I can do majority of the work myself (ie finishing like flooring, baseboards,siding etc.).  
 
What do you think my best option would be? All advice would be welcome! Thanks in advance

Well you said you don't like RTMs so I guess the only other option is to build one...

I have heard bad things about RTM Homes, but I am looking for more of real person experiences and advice. I am currently not leaning in any direction for or against any type....

How big is your family? Are you looking for smaller because of price? Are you looking for a fixer upper? Does it matter the location?

Have you thought about a used house? I've done 6 rtms, 3 new and 3 used homes. The 3 used homes were built in the 60s when they used real properly dried fir lumber and are built rock solid. You have to bring the used ones up to code when moved, such as insulation, wiring, plumbing,etc. But the initial cost of the house far offsets the retrofit costs. I have before and after pictures and you wouldn't know after that they weren't brand new houses. Just a suggestion.

I used Anderson building movers from Rossendale, and all three houses were around the $10,000 give or take. The last one I moved I had to pay an extra $9000 to move hydro and telephone lines,(tough move), it was a 2 storey.

I currently live in a mobile home in Rapid City. We are in the process of selling. Our home was built in 2013 and we were the first people to live in it and what’s also nice is we also on our land so no lot rent and close to Brandon

We are a family of 6, looking for a smaller home due to cost and convenience. Our kids do a lot of extra curricular activities, and we do a lot of traveling as well: that is more important than paying more a month for a larger sqft home.

if its a smaller house, I would recommend a basement. Not sure the age of your kids, but when their older they'll want their own space.. possibly even their own bedroom. Having a basement as a backup is a good idea. Doesn't have to be finished at the moment, but you can easily do it later.  
 
1200sq ft home, depending on layout, you can easily add 2 bedrooms

Yes we are definitely wanting a basement if possible, preferably unfinished as I'd like to make it into what I want.

So I suppose as the end of the day the best option would just be to buy something in Brandon. Nothing fancy, but it would be less hassle and less cost than anything else.

There are a couple of free mobile homes in Brentwood Trailer Park.  
People in the first 3 rows were given eviction notices. Have to be out by the end of June.  
There's also a very nice double wide for sale.

what area would you be interested in? If you're looking for a good school area there are 3 or 4 houses for sale in the George Fitton Elementary School and Ecole' Harrison area. One that comes to mind (NO IT ISN'T MINE) is on the 1200 block of 4th Street, it's a War/Peace Time house, totally redone. It looks quite nice.

Sprucewoods is a small community right by Shilo 15 min from Brandon and there are currently a ton of homes for sale due to military relocation. Which means that it's a buyers market. Shilo also has a lot of extracurricular activities for a fraction of the cost that you would pay in Brandon because the programs are designed for military families. There is almost nothing you can't do around Shilo.