Understanding the park home lifestyle: An introduction
Moving to a park home represents a significant lifestyle change that combines community living with the benefits of owning your own property. When relocating to a residential park home, you can expect a well-designed, single-storey dwelling situated within a managed community of like-minded residents. This lifestyle offers the perfect balance of independence and community, particularly appealing to those aged 50+ who are looking to downsize and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life in picturesque surroundings.
Key Takeaways:
- Park homes are purpose-built residences that follow British Standard BS3632 with a 10-year structural warranty
- Residents must be 50+ years old with no dependent children living on-site
- Monthly pitch fees cover the land your home sits on (from £193.77 at Broadway Park or £246.58 at Leedons Residential)
- Purchase prices start from £215k at Broadway Park and £250k at Leedons Residential Park
- Park homes provide excellent community amenities including swimming pools, bowling greens, and social spaces
- The Mobile Homes Act protects residents’ rights and establishes clear legal frameworks
Understanding the park home lifestyle: An introduction
The park home lifestyle offers a unique blend of independent living within a supportive community environment. Residential park homes provide the perfect option for those looking to downsize while maintaining ownership of their own property. At our Leedons Residential Park, we’ve created an environment where residents enjoy the benefits of single-storey living in well-designed homes surrounded by beautiful Worcestershire countryside.
Park home living is characterised by purpose-built communities exclusively for those aged 50 and over. This creates a peaceful atmosphere where neighbours share similar life experiences and values. You’ll discover a strong sense of community spirit, enhanced security, and well-maintained surroundings – all without the maintenance worries associated with traditional housing.
The lifestyle is particularly suited to those seeking to release equity from a larger property while enjoying modern, energy-efficient accommodation with lower running costs. Many residents appreciate the opportunity to form new friendships while maintaining their independence in a safe, managed environment.
What is a park home and how does it differ from traditional housing?
A park home is a detached single-storey dwelling built to residential standards (BS3632) and designed for permanent living. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar properties, park homes are factory-built in controlled environments, ensuring consistent quality and efficient construction. These homes are then transported to residential parks where they’re connected to utilities and permanently sited on a concrete base.
| Park Homes | Traditional Housing |
|---|---|
| Factory-built to BS3632 standards | Built on-site with traditional construction methods |
| Single-storey design | Often multi-storey design |
| Own the home but not the land (pay pitch fees) | Own both the home and land |
| Maximum size 50ft x 22ft at our parks | Varied sizes, typically larger footprint |
| Cash purchase (no traditional mortgages) | Mortgage financing available |
| Governed by Mobile Homes Act | Standard property law |
The legal status of park homes differs significantly from traditional housing. When you purchase a park home, you own the building itself but not the land it sits on. Instead, you enter into an agreement with the park owner who provides the pitch through a site licence. This arrangement is governed by the Mobile Homes Act, which protects your rights as a resident.
One significant difference is that park homes don’t qualify for mortgages in the traditional sense. However, this is rarely an issue as most buyers are downsizing from larger properties and can purchase outright with the equity released.
How do you purchase a park home?
Purchasing a park home follows a different process than buying traditional property. The first step is visiting potential residential parks to explore available plots and homes. At our parks, you can view show homes and existing properties, getting a feel for the community and facilities before making any decisions.
- Visit and research – Explore available parks and view show homes
- Arrange financing – Most purchases are cash transactions using equity from previous property
- Review documentation – Receive and review the Written Statement under the Mobile Homes Act
- Secure the home – Pay a deposit to secure your chosen home
- Complete any surveys – Though not legally required, some buyers choose to have surveys
- Finalise the sale – Sign documents and complete the purchase
- Move in – Receive keys and begin enjoying your new lifestyle
When you find a home you’re interested in, you’ll need to consider financing options. Most park home purchases are completed as cash transactions, often using equity released from the sale of a previous property. No mortgages are granted for park homes, but specialist finance companies may offer solutions if needed. Many buyers take advantage of part-exchange services to simplify the process, though we don’t offer this directly through Arden Parks.
For new park homes, the manufacturing process takes approximately 12 weeks, with an additional 16 weeks typically needed for siting, connections, and finalising the home for occupancy.
What costs should you budget for when moving to a park home?
| Cost Type | Broadway Park | Leedons Residential |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Purchase Price | From £215,000 | From £250,000 |
| Premium Show Homes | From £318,000 | |
| Monthly Pitch Fee | £193.77 | £246.58 |
| Council Tax | Primarily Band A | |
| Utilities | Electricity, water, gas (mains natural gas at Leedons) | |
When budgeting for park home living, you’ll need to account for both initial and ongoing costs. Beyond the purchase price, your ongoing costs include:
- Monthly pitch fees (£193.77 at Broadway Park or £246.58 at Leedons Residential), which cover your right to place your home on the park
- Council tax (primarily Band A in our locations)
- Utility bills including electricity, water, and mains natural gas (available at Leedons Residential)
- Home insurance for both the structure and contents
- General maintenance and upkeep costs
What’s Included: The purchase price of a new park home includes connections to mains services, a driveway for two cars, groundwork including skirting, steps and paths around the home, and a garden shed (6×8).
One financial benefit of park home living is that you won’t face stamp duty costs, and legal fees are optional rather than mandatory. Additionally, park homes are typically more energy-efficient than older traditional houses, potentially resulting in lower heating bills and running costs.
What are the rules and regulations for living in a residential park?
Living in a residential park means adhering to specific rules designed to maintain the community’s quality and character. The most fundamental requirement at our parks is the age restriction – residents must be 50 years or older, with no dependent children permitted to live on the park. This helps create a peaceful environment where neighbours share similar life stages and priorities.
| Key Rights | Common Park Rules |
|---|---|
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Your occupation is governed by the Mobile Homes Act 1983, which provides important legal protections. Upon purchase, you’ll receive a Written Statement outlining your rights and responsibilities.
It’s important to understand that park homes must be your only or main residence – they cannot be sublet or used as holiday accommodation. Any fences, hedges, or boundary structures require written approval from the park management.
While rules might initially seem restrictive compared to traditional housing, most residents appreciate how they help maintain the park’s appearance, property values, and community atmosphere.
How does the park home community lifestyle benefit residents?
The community aspect of park home living is one of its most significant advantages. Moving to a residential park connects you with a network of like-minded neighbours who share similar life experiences and values. This natural social environment helps combat isolation and fosters meaningful friendships – particularly valuable for those who have recently retired or lost a partner.
Leisure Facilities
- Indoor heated swimming pool
- Outdoor bowling green
- Tennis court
Social Spaces
- Community hall for events
- Games room
- Dedicated dog walking areas
Security Features
- Safety barriers
- Resident managers year-round
- Community oversight
Security is another significant benefit. Our parks feature safety barriers and have resident managers available year-round. The natural community oversight means neighbours tend to look out for one another, creating a safe environment where many residents feel comfortable leaving their homes for extended periods when travelling.
The park home lifestyle also balances privacy with community. While social activities are available, participation is entirely optional. You can engage as much or as little as you choose, maintaining independence while knowing support is nearby if needed.
Many residents appreciate the practical benefits too – living among peers means shared resources, from gardening tips to recommendations for local services. The community often organises social events, outings, and interest groups, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances quality of life.
What should you consider when downsizing to a park home?
Downsizing to a park home requires thoughtful planning to ensure a smooth transition. Begin by assessing your needs versus wants – what furniture, belongings and appliances are essential for your new lifestyle? Modern park homes (maximum size 50ft x 22ft at our parks) offer efficient layouts but have less space than many traditional houses.
Downsizing Checklist
- Measure your new park home’s rooms and create a floor plan
- Start decluttering early, focusing on one room at a time
- Identify must-keep items vs. nice-to-have possessions
- Consider digitising photographs and important documents
- Pass meaningful items to family members now
- Explore storage solutions for your new space (multi-functional furniture)
- Sell, donate or recycle items that won’t serve you in your new home
Remember that downsizing often represents an emotional journey as well as a practical one. Give yourself time to adjust, and focus on the benefits your new lifestyle will bring – less maintenance, lower utility costs, and a supportive community environment.
Moving to a park home: Key takeaways and next steps
Moving to a park home represents a lifestyle choice that offers numerous advantages for those seeking a change in their retirement years. The most important considerations include understanding the legal framework, financial implications, and community aspects of park home living.
| Next Steps | Benefits of Park Home Living |
|---|---|
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At Arden Parks, we’re committed to helping you make an informed decision about park home living. Our residential communities at Leedons Residential Park and Broadway Park offer the perfect setting for your next chapter, with beautiful surroundings, excellent amenities, and high-quality homes.
The park home lifestyle combines independence with community in a way that traditional housing often cannot match. With careful planning and the right expectations, moving to a park home can provide security, companionship, and a relaxed pace of life in some of Worcestershire’s most picturesque settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How energy efficient are modern park homes compared to traditional houses?
Modern park homes are built to BS3632 residential standard, featuring excellent insulation, double glazing, and energy-efficient heating systems. They typically offer better thermal efficiency than older traditional homes, potentially resulting in lower heating costs and reduced environmental impact.
Can I make modifications to my park home after purchase?
While you own the park home itself, modifications that change the external appearance or footprint typically require approval from park management. Internal renovations are generally permissible, but structural changes may need permission. Always check the park rules and consult with management before undertaking significant modifications.
What happens to a park home if the owner passes away?
Park homes can be inherited, but the recipient must meet the park’s age restrictions and other criteria to live there. If they don’t meet these requirements, they would typically need to sell the home. It’s advisable to address this in estate planning and consult with legal professionals to ensure clarity for beneficiaries.
Are visitors and family allowed to stay in my park home?
Yes, visitors and family members are welcome to stay temporarily in your park home. While dependent children cannot live permanently on-site, grandchildren are welcome for visits. Each park may have specific policies regarding the length and frequency of guest stays, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with the relevant rules.
How does resale value compare to traditional housing?
Unlike traditional houses, park homes typically depreciate over time rather than appreciate. However, well-maintained homes in desirable parks can retain value better. When considering a park home purchase, it’s best viewed as a lifestyle choice rather than primarily as an investment, with the focus on the quality of life benefits rather than potential capital growth.
