Posted by Joe C. (AR) on June 12, 2006 at 21:03:33:
At MHM, about a week ago, Jim Clayton was the keynote speaker. He also took the time to sing and play guitar for us, and participate in the roundtables. He brought the management team from his banks, from Clayton Homes, and the man that put together most of his park acquisitions. I, like many others who attended, got to meet him personally, ask questions of him and his staff, and we got autographed copies of his book. He is very genuine and personable.
Since that article was written, he has sold Clayton Homes, the parks, and the financing arm to Warren Buffet. His son still runs the company. Jim now focuses on Clayton Bank. The bank is “mobile home friendly”; financing inventory for dealers, loaning on note bundles for Lonnie dealers and financing parks. Unlike most banks, they seem to understand the business and want to participate.
Hell, I’m 57, and when I grow up. I want to be like him.
Joe C. (AR)