Moving from a family home to a park home is generally a straightforward process, especially when you have the right support. The transition involves downsizing, which many over-50s find liberating rather than challenging. With proper planning and guidance from park operators like us at Arden Parks, the move can be smooth and stress-free. Park homes offer a ready-made community, lower maintenance requirements, and often release equity from your previous property—all factors that can make the transition not just easy, but enjoyable.
Key Takeaways:
- Park homes require less maintenance than traditional houses, making day-to-day living simpler
- The downsizing process can be liberating when approached with the right mindset
- Financial benefits often include lower utility bills and council tax (typically Band A)
- Purpose-built communities offer social connections and shared amenities
- Professional guidance throughout the process makes the transition smoother
Understanding the transition: Is it easy to move from a family home to a park home?
The transition from a family home to a park home is typically easier than many people expect. Rather than feeling like a compromise, many of our residents tell us it feels like gaining freedom from the burdens of maintaining a larger property.
The key to a smooth transition lies in preparation. When you decide to move to one of our Leedons Residential Park homes, we guide you through each step. From understanding the legal aspects of park home ownership to helping you visualise your new lifestyle, our team ensures you’re comfortable with the process.
Many people worry about leaving familiar surroundings, but our residential parks are designed with community in mind. Residents quickly build connections with like-minded neighbours, creating a supportive network that makes settling in remarkably easy.
What are the main differences between family homes and park homes?
The most significant difference between traditional family homes and residential park homes is the living concept itself. Park homes are single-storey, detached properties specifically designed for comfortable, low-maintenance living.
Size is an obvious distinction – park homes are more compact than many family homes, with a maximum size of 50ft x 22ft on our parks. However, this thoughtful design means every space is functional and carefully planned. Our homes at Broadway Park exemplify how modern park homes combine style with practicality.
Park homes also differ in their construction. They’re built to the British Standard BS3632, ensuring excellent insulation and energy efficiency. This translates to lower heating costs and reduced environmental impact compared to many older traditional homes.
The community aspect is another key difference. Unlike some housing estates where you might barely know your neighbours, our parks foster a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals, all over 50, with shared values and interests.
How do you downsize effectively when moving to a park home?
Downsizing effectively requires a systematic approach and the right mindset. Start by making an inventory of your belongings, categorising them as ‘must-keep’, ‘might need’, and ‘can let go’.
Begin the sorting process at least 3-4 months before your move. This gives you time to thoughtfully consider each item rather than making rushed decisions. When deciding what to keep, focus on items that bring genuine joy or serve an essential function.
Consider the layout of your new park home and measure spaces before moving day. Many of our residents find that having a floor plan helps them visualise where furniture will fit, preventing the disappointment of items being too large for the space.
Don’t rush the process. Downsizing is as much an emotional journey as a practical one. Many of our residents find it helpful to pass treasured but unneeded items to family members, creating a sense of continuity rather than loss.
What are the financial considerations when moving to a park home?
Moving to a residential park home often makes strong financial sense. New park homes at our locations start from £215k at Broadway Park and £250k at Leedons Residential, with no stamp duty or legal fees required (unless chosen by you).
Instead of a mortgage, you purchase the home outright and pay a monthly pitch fee – £193.77 at Broadway Park and £246.58 at Leedons Residential. This fee covers your plot rental and site maintenance, offering excellent value compared to traditional housing costs.
Utility bills are typically lower due to the energy-efficient design of modern park homes, and council tax is usually Band A – the lowest band. This creates significant monthly savings for most residents.
Many of our residents benefit from releasing equity from their previous larger home, freeing up capital for enjoying retirement or supporting other financial goals. It’s worth noting that when eventually selling your park home, a 10% commission is payable to the park by your buyer.
What lifestyle changes can you expect in a park home community?
Life in our residential parks centres around community, comfort, and convenience. You’ll notice an immediate shift to a more relaxed pace of living, with less time spent on home maintenance and more time for activities you enjoy.
Our parks offer excellent amenities including an indoor heated swimming pool, outdoor bowling green, community hall, games room, tennis court, and laundrette. These facilities create natural gathering points for socialising and pursuing hobbies.
The countryside location of our parks means you’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings with dedicated dog walks and countryside paths, yet still have easy access to essential services. Local doctor surgeries, shops, and bus services are conveniently close by.
Many residents tell us they experience a renewed sense of security and belonging. Our manager and resident staff are available year-round, and the community aspect means neighbours often look out for one another in a way that’s increasingly rare in traditional neighbourhoods.
Making your decision: Key takeaways about park home living
When deciding if moving from a family home to a park home is right for you, consider both the practical and emotional aspects of the transition.
Residential park homes offer a balanced lifestyle – independent living with community support when desired. They provide freedom from many household maintenance tasks while still giving you your own space, including a garden, shed, and parking for two cars.
Financially, park homes often allow you to release equity while reducing ongoing living costs. The all-year-round residential licence means this becomes your permanent home, with all the rights protected under the Mobile Homes Act 1983.
If you’re considering this lifestyle change, we recommend visiting our parks to experience the environment firsthand. Our team is always ready to show you around and introduce you to current residents who can share their experiences.
Ready to explore whether park home living could be right for you? Contact us today to arrange a visit and discover the blend of independence, community, and comfort that our residential parks offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the process of moving to a park home typically take?
From purchasing to moving in typically takes 16-28 weeks. It takes approximately 12 weeks for a park home to be built by the manufacturer, followed by up to 16 weeks for siting, connections, and final preparations before you can move in.
Can I bring my pet to a residential park?
Pets are typically welcome at our residential parks, though some restrictions may apply. We understand pets are family members and many of our current residents enjoy the countryside walks with their dogs.
Can I make modifications to my park home and garden?
Yes, you can make interior modifications to your park home. For exterior changes or additions like fences and hedges, written approval from the park is required. This helps maintain the overall aesthetic and standards of the community.
Are there age restrictions for living in residential parks?
Yes, our residential parks are specifically designed for adults aged 50 and over. No dependent children are permitted to live on the park, ensuring a peaceful community atmosphere appropriate for this life stage.
What happens if I decide to sell my park home in the future?
You have the right to sell your park home on the open market. When selling, you’ll need to provide your buyer with specific documentation including the Written Statement under the Mobile Home Act 1983 and details of park rules.
