At Roots Management Group, we often talk about the power of manufactured housing, not just as an investment, but as a pathway to creating stronger communities and brighter futures. For Haile Hernandez and his wife, Mercedes Grullon, that mission is deeply personal.
The couple’s journey began with a dream: to build a better future for themselves while helping families in need of affordable housing. “Our journey into real estate investment started with that purpose: to provide decent, stable, and affordable homes,” Haile explained. “When Claudia introduced us to manufactured homes and explained the benefits, we immediately saw it as the perfect entry point. It allowed us to start our entrepreneurial journey while also making a meaningful impact in our community.”
Pictured: Claudia Campagna Regional Sales Manager at Roots with Real Estate Investors Mercedes and Haile Hernandez. The Hernandez family now own three investment properties with Roots.
For Haile and Mercedes, manufactured homes stood out as both smart and impactful investments. Affordable, sustainable, and scalable, they offered the chance to provide high-quality, long-term housing to families who might otherwise be priced out of the market. “It felt like a win-win: a smart investment that also gives back to the community,” Haile said.
Beyond affordability, they quickly recognized the flexibility and advantages of manufactured housing compared to traditional real estate. Lower entry costs, faster setup times, and strong demand have allowed their homes to perform well, delivering steady rental income and high occupancy rates. But for the couple, the greatest return isn’t measured in numbers. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’re offering families a safe and stable place to live,” Haile shared.
Haile and Mercedes credit Roots, and especially their partnership with Claudia, a Regional Sales Manager at Roots for giving them the confidence to invest. “Our first experience with Roots was nothing short of exceptional,” Haile recalled. “Claudia has gone above and beyond. She’s been a constant source of support and knowledge, and she made us feel confident and cared for throughout the entire process.”
From guidance during the buying process to ongoing support, the couple says Roots stands out because of its genuine commitment to partnership. “Roots treats you like a partner, not just a customer,” Haile explained. “They understand the importance of community and the impact affordable housing can have, and that aligns perfectly with our goals.”
Like many, Haile and Mercedes encountered misconceptions about manufactured homes being “low-quality” or “temporary.” But their experience has been the opposite. “The homes we’ve worked with are well-built, modern, and designed for long-term living,” Haile emphasized. “We’ve seen them become real homes, places where families are growing and feel proud to live.”
Investing in manufactured housing has given Haile and Mercedes more than financial growth, it’s given them purpose. “This investment has been life changing,” Haile said. “It’s given us a real pathway to financial independence, but more importantly, it’s allowed us to give back. Helping families find a safe, affordable home has given us a sense of purpose.”
The most rewarding part? Watching families find stability. “Honestly, seeing a family move into one of our homes and hearing them say, ‘We finally have a place to call home.’ That moment makes everything worth it.”
Haile encourages anyone considering manufactured housing to begin with a clear purpose and choose a partner who supports that vision. “Start with a clear purpose, and work with a partner that supports your vision, like Roots. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn as you go. This kind of investment can be both financially rewarding and deeply fulfilling when it’s done with the right mindset.”
The couple isn’t slowing down anytime soon. “Absolutely, we see ourselves continuing to invest in manufactured housing through Roots,” Haile confirmed. “Our experience has been so positive that we’re already thinking about our next investment. We trust Roots and especially Claudia, and we believe in the Roots mission.”
For Haile and Mercedes, investing in manufactured housing is more than a financial strategy, it’s a way to build a meaningful legacy while helping others find a place to call home.