The absolute first step is not looking for suppliers on Alibaba, but rather verifying Local Zoning and Feasibility (checking if you are legally allowed to put the house on your land).
If you skip this step, you risk buying a house that your local government forces you to remove.
Here is the first step broken down into actionable tasks:
Before you contact any Chinese factory, go to your local City Council, Municipality, or Building Department and ask the following specific questions:
1. Zoning Laws (Land Use)
"Does my land's zoning allow for a Prefabricated Home or Container Home?"
"Is this structure classified as a Temporary Structure or a Permanent Dwelling?"
"Can I set this up as an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) in my backyard?"
2. Building Codes & Standards
"What specific certifications are required for the electrical and plumbing systems?" (e.g., UL, CSA, CE, SAA).
Note: If your local government requires strict local electrical stamps, you must tell the Chinese factory not to wire the house, and hire a local electrician instead.
"Are there specific requirements for wind load (hurricane) or snow load?"
Note: You will need to give these wind/snow load numbers to the Chinese engineers later so they can reinforce the steel frame.
3. Foundation & Utilities
"What kind of foundation is required?" (Concrete slab, pier foundation, or ground screws?)
"Can I legally connect a prefabricated structure to the city's water and sewage grid?"
Summary:Do not spend a single dollar or hour looking at designs until you have a "Green Light" from your local authorities.
Would you like a list of technical questions to ask the supplier once you have confirmed your local permits?
