Normal settling involves hairline cracks less than 1/8 inch wide that develop gradually over months or years. Serious problems include cracks wider than 1/4 inch, horizontal cracks, doors that won't close, or visible sagging. If you're unsure, have a professional assess the situation.

Mobile homes sit on pier and block foundations rather than solid concrete, making them more susceptible to uneven settling. They're also transported to the site, which can create stress points. The lighter construction and different foundation system make them more sensitive to soil movement and moisture changes.

Soil movement is primarily caused by moisture changes - clay soil expands when wet and shrinks when dry. Other factors include poor drainage, plumbing leaks, extreme weather, tree roots, and inadequate site preparation. Maintaining consistent moisture levels around your foundation helps minimize movement.

Foundation repair costs vary by home type and damage extent. Stick-built homes typically cost $10,000-$50,000+ for major foundation work. Mobile homes range from $3,000-$25,000 depending on leveling and structural needs. When costs approach 30-50% of the home's value, selling as-is becomes financially smarter.

While you can't completely prevent settling, you can minimize it through proper drainage, moisture control, regular leveling maintenance, and avoiding heavy loads on weak areas. Proper site preparation during initial setup is crucial. Learn more about prevention in our mobile home leveling guide.

Call a professional immediately if you notice cracks wider than 1/4 inch, horizontal cracks, doors that won't close, visible sagging, or rapid crack growth. Also call if you're unsure about crack severity or if multiple warning signs appear simultaneously. Early professional assessment can prevent more expensive problems.

This depends on the home's value versus repair costs. If foundation repairs cost more than 30-50% of the home's value, or if the home has multiple expensive problems, selling as-is to a cash buyer often makes better financial sense than investing in extensive repairs.

Yes, foundation problems can significantly reduce mobile home value and make it difficult to sell through traditional methods. However, cash buyers who specialize in mobile homes often purchase properties with foundation issues, handling all repairs themselves and offering fair market value for the home's condition.