Missouri communities are facing a growing need for attainable, safe housing options. Rising construction costs, limited inventory, and outdated zoning regulations are making homeownership more difficult for working families, first-time buyers, and retirees across the state. 

This week, Three Stone Homes was honored to take part in legislative meetings at the Missouri Capitol to discuss practical housing solutions — and to bring those solutions directly to lawmakers. 

Taking the Conversation Beyond Paper 

In partnership with the Missouri Manufactured Housing Association (MMHA), we helped set up a home on-site at the Capitol so legislators could walk through a modern modular home firsthand. 

Why? Because today’s homes are often misunderstood. 

Seeing the craftsmanship, finishes, structural integrity, and design in person helps move the conversation beyond outdated perceptions and toward informed policy decisions. 

Modern Modular vs. HUD-Code Manufactured Homes 

There are two primary types of off-site construction commonly discussed: 

Modular Homes (MOD) 

  • Built to the same state and local building codes as site-built homes 
  • In many Missouri jurisdictions, built to even higher code standards 
  • Placed on permanent foundations 
  • Inspected locally like traditional construction 
  • Appraised the same as site-built homes 

HUD-Code Manufactured Homes 

  • Built to a federal construction standard set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 
  • Among the most regulated homes in Missouri 
  • Inspected at the factory and subject to Missouri Public Service Commission oversight 
  • Placed on permanent or approved support systems 
  • Often one of the most affordable paths to homeownership 

Both options provide safe, durable, energy-efficient housing built under strict construction and inspection standards  

Addressing Common Myths 

Outdated perceptions continue to shape local zoning decisions across Missouri. However, the reality is very different. 

Myth: Manufactured and modular homes are lower quality. 
Reality: These homes are built with modern materials in climate-controlled factory environments, which increases consistency and efficiency. They are subject to rigorous inspections and oversight  

Myth: These homes hurt surrounding property values. 
Reality: Properly placed homes that meet design and installation standards do not negatively impact values. Modular homes are appraised the same as site-built homes  

Myth: Expanding placement removes local control. 
Reality: Updating zoning ordinances to reflect modern construction methods does not eliminate local authority. It simply removes artificial barriers and provides more flexibility for communities  

The Affordability Impact 

Factory-built housing can significantly reduce construction timelines and costs. 

  • Modular homes can reduce construction costs by approximately 20% compared to site-built construction. 
  • HUD-code manufactured homes can provide savings of 40% or more compared to traditional site-built homes  

In a time when affordability is one of the biggest barriers to homeownership, expanding access to these options matters. 

Our Simple Ask 

Our message to legislators was straightforward: 

Treat modular and manufactured homes the same as site-built homes. 
Do not create artificial barriers that limit placement or opportunity for Missouri families. 

When zoning regulations restrict where these homes can be located — not based on quality, but on outdated classifications — buyers are left with fewer choices, higher prices, and longer timelines  

Moving Forward 

We are grateful for the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversations with policymakers about expanding housing opportunities across Missouri. 

Affordable housing solutions do not require lowering standards. They require updating policies to reflect modern building methods. 

At Three Stone Homes, we remain committed to building safe, high-quality homes — and to advocating for policies that expand opportunity for the families we serve.