Mobile Home Benefits

With reference to “Are Mobile Homes a Good Investment?” by Robert J. Bruss (April 1), I offer the following:

As a 30-year veteran of mobile home financing and about 15 years of experience in the Southern California mobile home resale market and as a realtor, some of the statements offered by Bruss are most questionable. First, mobile homes in Southern California do appreciate in much the same manner as single-family homes. Documentation is available.

Secondly, mobile home are built to rigid federal standards, established by HUD, and are known to withstand earthquake damage as well, if not better than site-built homes. Again documentation is available. With regard to surroundings, mobile home communities can be in a variety of surroundings, but hardly less attractive than detached homes.

Finally, most mobile homes are owned and the land only is rented. Bruss would have it believed the homes are rented.

With the affordability of housing a major issue in California, mobile homes, while not for all, may well be a very wise investment for many.

BERNIE MURRAY

Camarillo