Residential park homes, also known as mobile homes, are single-storey houses that can be moved from place to place. They’re installed on park home sites.

Would a park home suit me?

Residential park homes are small and built on one level so may be suited to people who want a home that’s easier to manage. Buying a residential park home can be a more affordable way of living in an area you like. Park home sites can also have more of a sense of community when compared to traditional housing.

Like any move, though, you should consider all your options carefully before making any decisions.

What should I consider before buying a park home?

It’s important to understand the legal and financial implications of buying a park home. Although you’ll own the park home itself, you’ll pay rent to the site owner for your pitch (known as a ‘pitch fee’). You’ll also be liable for council tax, and there may be resale fees if you decide to sell your park home in the future.

It’s also a good idea to consider the answers to the following questions when thinking about buying a park home: 

• Does the site have a residential licence and can you live there all year round?
• What are the energy supply arrangements? Some park homes can be expensive to heat and you may have to buy your energy from the site owners.
• Are there age restrictions?
• Does the site allow pets?
• Are there parking restrictions?
• Is there a site manager who lives on-site to deal with day-to-day problems? 
• Is the site – including the roads, lighting and pathways – well maintained? 
• Is there an active residents’ association representing the site’s residents’ interests and ensuring that their problems are addressed?

Check out the advice guides, FAQs and podcasts about park homes from LEASE Park Homes