FAQ

 
 

WHAT IS A SATELLITE?

SATELLITES are simple, scalable, and sustainable prefab spaces. 

Designed with cutting-edge technology, SATELLITES revolutionize both residential and commercial applications with their adaptable and modular capabilities. SATELLITES seamlessly integrate style and eco-consciousness with their green, durable materials and relocatable structure. 

Step into a SATELLITE and experience its light, airy interior atmosphere—a haven for connection, relaxation, focused work, product displays, or exceptional services.

With its energy-efficient, passive solar design, a SATELLITE keeps you illuminated with the soft, radiant glow of natural light for every Zoom meeting, morning yoga sesh, or creative inspiration. There are countless possibilities to maximize your SATELLITE's potential!

ARE SATELLITES ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY?

 
 

SATELLITES are made consciously, arriving at your doorstep with minimal environmental impact, from the choice of materials to the manufacturing process to the on-site development. We strive to use local materials as much as possible and minimize waste in the production process. All materials used are environmentally friendly in terms of sourcing, including cork, bamboo, recycled or repurposed waste lumber, and plywood from plantation-harvested poplar. SATELLITES are completed with non-toxic, non-VOC paints. 

Our environmental controls create a tight envelope, provide good ventilation, and mitigate mold possibilities. Energy costs to run the SATELLITES are low due to their tight, well-insulated design. The spaces are well lit, well ventilated, and utilize passive solar techniques.

Due to these factors, UET SATELLITES hold their value. They can be sold or moved if circumstances change—making SATELLITES not only environmentally friendly, but livable and economically sustainable spaces as well.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Our modules and options are all fixed prices. Depending on the module and options chosen the typical cost per square foot is $325 to $400.

This cost includes: 

  • An insulated turn-key architectural module 

  • High-quality windows and doors 

  • Electrical and plumbing to code 

  • On-site consultation 

Additional costs:

  • Delivery and installation (UET) 

  • Plumbing and electrical set-up (customer provided) 

  • Permits (customer provided) 

  • Landscaping and site work (customer provided) 

WHEN DO YOU REQUIRE PAYMENT?

Payment 1: Deposit: 5% - Non-refundable. The deposit initiates the process, securing your place in our production schedule and allowing our team to work on your plans. It also serves as proof to your financial institution that you have entered into an agreement for financing.

Payment 2: 50%. This deposit secures your position in the production que and starts the pre-production process. This includes ordering windows, doors, materials and components. This deposit also gets your module through parts production and component assembly.

Payment 3: 35%. Released after the completion of the wall, roof and floor modular panels/components. 

Payment 4: 5%. Released after the finished inspection has been completed.

Payment 5: 5%. Released before the unit leaves our production facility. Once this final 5% is received, we will be enroute to your property.

  • WHAT FINANCING IS AVAILABLE?

  • BUSINESS LOANS: We have found that banks are willing to provide business loans to buyers within the hospitality industry for the purchase of one or more SATELLITES. 

  • HOME EQUITY LOANS: If you are a homeowner and wish to incorporate a tiny house as an additional living unit, you may qualify for home equity loans or lines of credit.

  • BANK PERSONAL LOANS: While major national banks may not actively promote loans specifically for tiny houses, you may still have the opportunity to secure one, particularly if you maintain a positive rapport with your local bank. Banks typically favor borrowers with good or excellent credit scores.

  • CREDIT UNION PERSONAL LOANS: Credit unions can serve as a reliable source for unsecured loans tailored to tiny houses. Developing a relationship with a credit union can enhance your chances of obtaining approval for such loans.

  • VERMONT-BASED LOANS: There are exciting new incentives and loans for homeowners in VT to add an ADU to their property.

    HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Generally, the process takes about 3-6 months from contract signing to delivery. Typically, we find that customers need about this much time to decide on their package and set up their site

DO YOU PROVIDE SERVICES FOR PLUMBING, ELECTRICAL, & SITE WORK?

Unfortunately, no. But we are happy to discuss and advise you and your contractors.

CAN A SATELLITE BE CUSTOMIZED?

Buyers have the ability to customize their SATELLITE with some premium options. Premium kitchen, cladding color, and alternative roofing styles are a few of the options you can choose from

If you would like to order five or more units you can customize in more ways. Custom premium options include: trim packages, interior lighting options, LED strip lights in crown molding, radiant heat flooring, door options, windows with custom trims, flooring options (cork, bamboo, marmoleum), kitchen cabinets, basic cabinets and a desk, and furnished options with bed, stove, and desk.

I’M A “DIY” PERSON, CAN I DO SOME OF THE WORK MYSELF?

For DIY enthusiasts, there is the choice of an unpainted option (where you can paint the interior and handle the flooring yourself). We take a step back, allowing you to take on more. This leads to a reduced need for materials and labor, resulting in a discounted SATELLITE option.

DO YOU PROVIDE CUSTOM-BUILD DESIGN SERVICES?

While UET is a manufacturer of an architectural products, we do not offer custom-build design services.

DO I NEED PERMITS FOR A SATELLITE?

We advise customers to check with your local officers, town supervisors, etc. However, we can provide advice and insight into this process during consultation.

WHAT TYPE OF ELECTRIC HOOK-UP IS REQUIRED?

Smaller units or applications require a 30 or 50 AMP panel, while larger units require a 100 or 125 AMP panel.

DO YOU HAVE AN "OFF-GRID” OPTION?

Yes, we have developed off-grid modules in the past, and we continue to perfect our design. Reach out to learn more.

WHAT IF I NEED TO MOVE MY SATELLITE?

We can help. UET is also your moving and relocation service. We will come and survey your next delivery destination, we will give you a quote and schedule your safe relocation.

DO I NEED A FOUNDATION?

No. Our units can be installed right on the ground. Our landing gear can be leveled making up for the uneven ground surface. We recommend a packed gravel pad where you will be having your SATELLITE orbit from.

WHAT IS YOUR DELIVERY AND INSTALLATION POLICY?

We deliver SATELLITES locally, regionally and nationally. We will do a site visit in anticipation of delivery. If other costs are needed to deliver the module, the customer will be responsible to cover the costs, site work, crane or moving fence are some that are typical to more complex deliveries.

IS THERE SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE SUPPORT?

We stand by our products and are here for you once you purchase a SATELLITE. We offer a full warranty on our craftsmanship and we pass along all manufacturing warranties for the products we use.