Is there any easy give away when it comes to determing whether a structure is modular or mobile? Thanks

I could be all wrong, but my understanding is that mobile should be on a mobile home chassis and a modular is on a regular foundation built in sections and delivered/set up on site.

Angie, you are right

There are different types of modulars. In general "modular" refers to a construction technique. They are built in factories, shipped to and assembled at the site. Some modulars are attached to slabs, most are on cinder blocks or piers and come in a varity of 1 and 2 story styles. Some modulars are on chassis, they are commonly called "on frame modular" and are not eligible for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or WAMU financing because there is no national code standard like HUD code mobile homes. If you're ever in one look for the IBC or UBC sticker/plate which gives a serial #, date of manufacture, and place of origin. Look in the utility room, closets, or under the kitchen sink.

A mobile home bears weight on the undercarriage, hence the steel frame underneath. A modular weight bears on the outside walls (like a traditional, stick-built home), hence, no need for the steel undercarriage.

If it has the steel undercarriage and is resting on several piers, it's a mobile home and came in on wheels instead of being hauled in sections on a flatbed.