What is a Ready-to-Move Home?

At Destiny Homes, we specialize in building high-quality ready-to-move (RTM) homes. Many people hear “RTM” and think “modular”, “mobile home” or “double-wide” but these are not the same and the difference matters, especially when it comes to quality, longevity, and long-term value.

Let’s break it down:

Ready-to-Move is an umbrella term that many different builders use. In its simplest form, it is a home that is not built on site and is transported to site once construction is finished. At Destiny Homes, our RTMs are classified as “modular homes” by construction codes. But many mobile home builders will also call their homes RTMs as a marketing tactic. So, what’s the difference and why does it matter?

What is a Modular Home?

Modular homes are built in a controlled environment. Our ready-to-move homes are classified as modular homes, even though we build them in one piece, because we are certified as CSA A277 builder. This means that we follow the same building codes and inspection standards as traditional homes built on-site. Our homes are required to be secured to a permanent foundation, which can be a basement or crawl space.

What is a Mobile Home?

Mobile homes (sometimes called manufactured or trailer homes) are built on a permanent steel chassis and are typically constructed to meet CSA Z240 certification, which has different requirements from local building codes. They are designed to be transportable and are usually placed on blocks, piers, or skids, not a permanent foundation.

Key Differences in Construction

Feature	Modular Homes	Mobile Homes
Building Codes	Same local codes as site-built homes	General mobile home code, not full building code and not specific to location
Foundation	Permanent (basement, crawl space, or screw piles)	Temporary or semi-permanent (piers or skids)
Materials	Traditional 2×6 walls and drywall	Typically uses 2×4 walls and prefinished vinyl wall panels
Structure	Wood joists and beams	Steel chassis under floor
Longevity	Designed for decades of durability	Shorter lifespan, more repairs needed
Value	Appreciates over time like a typical house	Depreciates over time like a vehicle

 

Don’t Settle for Less Than a Real Home

We know our homes cost more than a trailer, and for good reason. When you choose an RTM with Destiny Homes, you’re choosing long-term value, comfort, and peace of mind. Once secured on your property, your RTM home functions, feels, and performs exactly like a traditional site-built home because it is one!

It’s in your Destiny to have a home that’s built to last. Let’s build it together.