Exploring the world of park homes, caravans and lodges can be just as much overwhelming as it can exciting. If you're new to it all, it can get quite confusing as to what the difference between holiday homes and residential living is, especially when there's so much to consider. Below we’ll discuss the differences and what to look out for depending on what you want.
So what is a Holiday Home?
A holiday home is a property used for holiday stays or to let out. They can come in the form of a park home, lodge or caravan, and are built to a minimum of EN1647 standards. Holiday homes are great for family holidays, weekends away or good for a regular change of scenery. They can also be a great way of finding a new community or creating a secondary income.
If a park has a holiday home licence, it will state how long you can be on that site in a year. You won’t pay council tax, and you'll need to be registered at a separate address.
A holiday home park will sometimes have a 12-month license, but will often be seasonal and close around the colder months. Be sure to check if this aligns with when you'd like to use the home.
What is a Residential Park Home?
Residential living is for more than holidays. A residential park allows you to use that home as your main residence, meaning you can stay there full time. You'll be required to pay council tax and a site fee to cover the maintenance costs of the park and they will usually have an age limit that usually sits at 45 and up. This is so they can build a community full of like-minded people and focus on catering for retirement.
The homes also come in the form of park homes, lodges and caravans, but they’ll usually be park homes or lodges as they need to be built to the BS3632 standard. This ensures that the home is suitable for everyday living. They tend to be more expensive compared to holiday homes since they're for permanent use but are great for someone looking for more affordable living and wanting to downsize.
What is the difference between residential living and a 12-month license?
Parks will often hold a 12-month licence meaning come rain or shine, you can get your holiday on. This however can be confusing as it does not mean it's for residential use. The park may stay open throughout the year, but you still have limits on how long you can be there.
Parks aren't always strictly for holidays or residential living, they can have a mixed license meaning they have both residential and holiday home plots. It's important to review the listed information to make sure you’re viewing what you’re looking for.
We’re here to help!
Before considering the purchase of a park home, it is crucial you know whether it is a residential or a holiday home. It will affect how you use the property physically and legally. Be sure to check the park description when viewing homes on Parkmove, this will include all the important information you will need. If you would like more information, enquire through our website or drop us a call on 03333 20 20 88. A member of our team will help guide you to find exactly what you're looking for.
