Do we promote the benefits of Park Home living enough?

Here are some commonly known advantages of choosing park home living:

1. Affordability: Park homes are generally more affordable than traditional houses in the UK. They provide a cost-effective housing option, particularly for retirees or those looking to downsize. Park home communities often offer lower purchase prices and ongoing maintenance costs compared to traditional homes.
2. Sense of community: Park home sites often foster a strong sense of community among residents. Living in close proximity to neighbours can create a supportive and friendly environment where residents look out for one another. This can lead to meaningful connections, shared activities, and a sense of belonging, creating opportunities for socialising, making friends, and participating in community activities. Many park home sites organise events, clubs, and social gatherings, fostering a supportive and friendly environment.
3. Lifestyle flexibility: Park homes offer a flexible lifestyle, allowing for more freedom and the opportunity to focus on activities and experiences they enjoy. Park home living can provide a sense of liberation from the burdens of larger properties, such as extensive maintenance or high costs.
4. Access to nature: Park home sites are often located in scenic and natural settings, such as countryside or coastal areas. This provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy beautiful surroundings, fresh air, and outdoor activities. Living close to nature can have a positive impact on well-being and quality of life.
5. Lower utility costs: Park homes are typically designed to be energy-efficient, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to run. Smaller living spaces require less energy to heat and maintain, resulting in lower utility bills compared to larger, traditional houses.
6. Security and peace of mind: Many park home sites have secure entry systems and a sense of community vigilance, offering residents an added layer of security. This can provide peace of mind, particularly for those who value a safe living environment or individuals who may spend extended periods away from their homes.
7. Opportunity for downsizing and decluttering: Moving to a park home often necessitates downsizing and decluttering, which can have several positive effects. It allows individuals to simplify their possessions, reduce clutter, and create a more organized and manageable living space. This process can be freeing and promote a more minimalist and intentional lifestyle.
8. Low maintenance: Park homes are designed for easy maintenance. They typically have modern construction materials, requiring less upkeep and maintenance costs. This can be especially appealing for individuals who prefer a hassle-free lifestyle.
9. Amenities and facilities: Many park home communities offer a range of on-site amenities and facilities for residents. These may include communal areas, recreational spaces, fitness centres and swimming pools, shops, and some even offer on-site medical facilities. Having convenient amenities within walking distance can enhance the overall quality of life.
10. Location options: Park home sites are located in various parts of the UK, including rural and coastal areas. This allows residents to choose a location that suits their preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a peaceful countryside setting or a vibrant coastal town, there are park home sites available to cater to different tastes.
11. Mobility: Park homes are an attractive option for those looking maintain a more mobile lifestyle. They offer smaller, compact living spaces without compromising on comfort. Additionally, park homes are single-story, making them accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
12. Legal protection: Park home residents in the UK are protected by legislation, such as the Mobile Homes Act 1983 and the Mobile Homes Act 2013. These laws provide certain rights and protections, ensuring fair treatment and security for residents.

Here are some lesser well-known advantages of choosing park home living:

1. No stamp duty when purchasing a park home: You generally do not have to pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) when purchasing a park home in the UK. Park homes are considered movable property, and as such, they are not subject to SDLT. This is because the land on which park homes are situated is usually leased from the park owner, and the park home itself is not considered a freehold or leasehold interest in land.
2. No inheritance tax is paid when selling a park home: If you live in a park home, where you rent / lease the land from the park owner, the value of the park home is not subject to Inheritance Tax.
3. Park homes are subject to lower council tax bands: Park homes are generally assessed at lower valuation bands (typically A or B) compared to traditional houses. This can result in a lower council tax liability compared to traditional build properties within the same area.
4. If you are on a low income: Depending on your income and circumstances, you may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction (previously known as Council Tax Benefit) from your local council. This reduction can help lower the amount of council tax you have to pay.
5. Housing Benefit: If you are on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you might qualify for Housing Benefit to help with your housing costs. This benefit can potentially cover a portion of your pitch fees.
6. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP): Local councils also have the discretion to provide additional financial assistance through DHP. If you are facing financial hardship and struggling to meet your pitch fee obligations, you can apply for DHP to seek temporary financial support.
7. The Government cannot force you to sell your park home to fund care home living: As a park home is considered a chattel, the Government will cannot force the sale of a park home to fund care home fees, therefore securing the value of your park home for future generations
8. How long will a park home last: While it's difficult to provide a precise number of years for the lifespan of a park home, park homes built to a high standard can even last 50 years or longer. Regular maintenance, proper care, and occasional renovations can significantly extend the lifespan of a park home and ensure it remains a comfortable and secure living environment for many years.
9. The opportunity to design your own home: many parks allow you to design (bespoke build) your new home. Customising your park home allows you to personalise the space according to your preferences and needs. You have the freedom to choose the layout, interior design, materials, and finishes that align with your style and taste. This enables you to create a cozy and inviting living environment that reflects your personality. Park homes often have limited square footage, so bespoking your own park home allows you to optimize the use of space. You can work with designers and manufacturers to create a layout that maximizes storage options, enhances functionality, and ensures every corner of your home is utilized effectively. .
10. Bespoking your park home allows you to create a living space that is comfortable and convenient for your lifestyle. You can customize the layout to accommodate your daily routines, add amenities that enhance your comfort, and incorporate features that make your life easier. This can include additions like walk-in wardrobes, built-in storage, or specific room setups for hobbies or work.
11. Reduced carbon footprint: Park home living is often associated with a smaller carbon footprint. The energy-efficient design, smaller living space, and lower resource consumption contribute to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. This can be appealing to individuals who are conscious about sustainability and reducing their impact on the environment.

Check out the web sites below, for further facts and info on park home living:

Park homes (ageuk.org.uk)

Property and paying for residential care (ageuk.org.uk)

Omar | Luxury Residential Lodge and Park Home Manufacturers

Sell My Group - Park Homes, Lodges and Static Caravans

Happy reading, hope you enjoyed this article.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me, [email protected]