If you’ve been looking into alternative housing in Australia, you’ve most likely come across the terms prefab homes and modular homes. Often used interchangeably, they refer to the same thing: a home that’s built off-site, in a factory, then delivered to your land ready for installation.
But while the terms overlap, there are some subtle differences, especially if you’re buying or selling one.
Prefab vs modular: What’s the difference?
In Australia, the term prefabricated home (or prefab) is the umbrella term for any dwelling that’s built off-site in a controlled environment. That includes:
- Modular homes
- Kit homes
- Flat-pack homes
- Granny flats
- Shipping container homes
- Tiny homes and relocatable cabins
Modular homes are a type of prefab, generally built in sections (modules).
Why choose a prefab home/modular home?
Whether you’re calling it prefab or modular, you’re choosing a modern, cost-effective way to build. These homes are growing in popularity across Australia for a few clear reasons:
Built ready to go
Why wait 12–18 months for a traditional build when there are modular and prefab homes already built, ready, and listed for sale on Modular Sales? The homes on our platform are completed and just waiting for delivery — meaning you could install your new office, tiny house, or granny flat in weeks, not months.
What you see is what you get
Unlike off-the-plan builds, the homes listed on Modular Sales have already been constructed — so what you see is exactly what you get. They are built in factory environments using consistent materials and methods, which means fewer surprises, delays, or defects.
No budget blowouts
When buying a second-hand modular home, or new build, you’re not navigating fluctuating construction costs or dealing with a budget blowout. What’s listed is what you pay, making it easier to plan and stay within budget. If you’re a buyer looking for fixed, upfront pricing, it’s a smart and hassle-free way to purchase.
A more sustainable option
Many of the modular homes listed for sale on Modular Sales are second-hand, giving these structures a second life and reducing construction waste. Whether it’s a container home, a relocatable tiny house or a modular office, buying a prefab home that’s already built helps support a more sustainable future.
Ideal for rural or regional areas
Live off-grid or in hard-to-access areas? No worries. Prefab homes can be delivered almost anywhere in Australia, fully built or in sections.
What about second hand modular homes and container homes?
At Modular Sales, you can list both brand new and second-hand prefab homes — including:
- Used modular homes ready to relocate
- Ex-display granny flats and site offices
- Converted shipping container homes
- Portable buildings and classrooms
Buying second-hand can be a smart way to save money and time, especially if you’re looking for something temporary, semi-permanent, or budget-conscious. Modular homes are often fully transportable and can be delivered and set up in a matter of days.
Which one’s right for you?
Whether you choose a modular home, site office, granny flat, or a converted shipping container, you’ll get:
- More flexibility
- Shorter timelines
- Lower costs
- Less stress
What you choose will depend on your site, your goals, and your budget.
Find your modular home with Modular Sales
At Modular Sales, we connect buyers and sellers of new and second-hand prefab and modular homes across Australia. From sleek new builds to budget-friendly relocatable cabins, our listings cover a wide range of options for families, retirees, businesses, and off-grid enthusiasts.
Explore the listings on ModularSales.com.au to find prefab and modular homes for sale across Australia.