1. What is an RTM?
RTM stands for Ready To Move. This refers to houses that are constructed at our site,
and moved to your site when completed. This term should not be confused with mobile or
modular homes. Typically, our RTMs are fully finished and delivered in one piece, and
once on the foundation require very little to complete.
2. Do you build cottages as an RTM?
We certainly do. More and more people are finding great value in having their summer cottage
built as an RTM. Finding qualified and reputable contractors or builders who have the time
to take on your project is becoming more and more difficult especially when your site is in
cottage country. The only important thing to identify is whether your site is suitable for
moving a house in.
3. Can I bring in a custom plan, or do I need to choose from your plans?
We have standard plans that you can choose from, but we can also design a custom tailored
plan that will suit your needs.
4. Will the walls crack during the move?
Every RTM will experience some minor cracks in the drywall during the move. These cracks are
cosmetic, and do not affect the structural integrity of your new home. Once your home is on
the foundation we will schedule a time to come out and fix the wall cracks.
5. Who builds my foundation?
We leave the choice of foundation contractors up to you, but provide a foundation drawing that
can be used by your contractor. Many types of foundations are acceptable such as Wood, Concrete
or ICF (insulated concrete form).
6. What do I need to do once my RTM is on the foundation?
Install basement stairs
Install the electrical service
Install the heating system
Finish the plumbing system (below joist level)
Install septic and water services
7. What type of warranty do you offer?
We are members of the Progressive Home Warranty program. This provides you with a 1 year
workmanship & material warranty and a 10 year structural warranty. Also most of the products
used in your new home will come with additional manufacturers warranties.
8. Are houses inspected as they are built?
We are a CSA approved RTM builder. CSA has a strict quality control program that we must adhere
to. On site construction inspections are conducted on a daily basis.
9. Can I finish the interior of the house myself, is this possible?
We have an option to build your home to the drywall stage and this will then allow you to do
all your interior finishing.
10. What happens if the RTM is seriously damaged during the move?
The movers we use are the best in the business, and are fully insured. The customer is not liable
for the home until it is placed on the foundation.
11. Is it expensive to move an RTM?
Moving costs will depend on the location and the size of the home that is being moved.
12. What are the advantages of buying an RTM, as opposed to building on site?
Quality Control – We have a dedicated supervisor that oversees the construction process. He does
not spend his time driving from site to site. He spends his days on the yard, ensuring that the quality
goes into your RTM. The trades people we use are extremely proud of the quality work they produce, and
it shows just like our slogan “Where Quality Is Not A Compromise”.
Time Saving – Building an RTM saves you time. Your foundation contractor can start your foundation
while your home is being constructed. Typical on site builds can take up to 12 months to complete. If
all of your post move work is well coordinated, you should be in your new RTM home in 6 months (from the
time you sign your contract).
No Surprises – The controlled environment in which we build your RTM allows us to accurately control
the project costs. Therefore no overruns or surprise extra charges. What we quote you is what you pay
unless you add extra items.
Cost Control – because we build your RTM in a controlled environment, we minimize theft, material
delays, and travel time costs. This helps keep the cost of your RTM down.
Convenience – let us take care of the day to day details rather than dealing with the scheduling
of several contractors on your own.
13. How much does an RTM cost per square foot?
The cost per square foot will vary depending on the options that you choose. Our standard specification
price per square foot includes many items that other builders consider upgrades. Additional options may
be added at your request.
14. Can my RTM be built and moved with an attached garage?
Yes, depending on the style of home and garage you choose. For example if the garage is to the side then
it can be moved as one unit, however if the style of home has a front garage then the garage must be
built on site after the RTM is moved and placed on your foundation.
15. What extra costs might I expect besides the cost of the RTM?
Foundation - $30 – 40,000.00
Depending on the style you choose should include windows, beams teleposts.
Heating – $9,500.00
Furnace, ductwork, gas, hot water tank & air exchange system.
Plumbing – $7,000.00
Finish plumbing below main floor level (hook up to well & septic not included)
Electrical & Gas Lines - $4, 500.00
Connect to outside power / gas lines
Well and Septic – $15,000.00
Included pressure system and hook up to house
*Other additional costs to consider: building permits, Engineering approval/stamp on foundation
(if applicable), cost of land and taxes.
** Please note the above figures are ESTIMATES ONLY. This budget information has been
created for the client’s purpose only providing a basic understanding of additional costs
that can be incurred.