static caravan

caravan park

Live in a static caravan

Can I live in a static caravan?

Many people wonder ‘Can we live in a static caravan’? The answer is yes, however it depends where the static caravan situated and the quality of the static caravan.

The quality and spec of static caravans are improving, because of this people are becoming more open to the idea of living in a static caravan.

Here are some of the reasons why:
  • Spacious enough to live in

Static caravans can range from 28ft x 10ft – (280 sq. ft.) or 45ft x 14ft (630 sq. ft.) meaning they offer more than ample space to live in. With high ceilings available in most models they will give most modern-day apartment’s a run for their money.

  • A home from home

You will find all the home comforts in a static caravan including double glazing, central heating and fully fitted kitchens with modern appliances. There are many upgrade options available in a static caravan. This can include the latest entertainment systems, wine coolers and upgraded appliances. A static caravan can be a perfect place to live with everything you need.

  • Residential specification

Static caravans can now be built to residential specification (BS 3632) meaning they have been built to use all year round. To achieve this residential status they include the following:

  • Thicker walls
  • Extra insulation
  • Robust construction
  • Soundproofing

Having a residential spec can be great of you want to use your static caravan all year round. This may be for living in or even holiday use.

Here are some questions people often ask

Can static caravans be made to live in?

Yes, static caravans can now be built to residential specification, BS 3632, meaning they are built and designed to be used all year round. This is great as many parks are now open for 12 months of the year meaning people can holiday all year round. Technically a residential static caravan would be fine for you to live in and you would be more than comfortable.

Where can I live in a static caravan?

There are many potential places where you can live in a static caravan as listed below:

  • Private land

Perhaps you have a family member or friend with some spare land they can put a static caravan for you. Of course, they will need to check with the local council and obtain relevant planning and permissions.

  • Residential Park

Residential parks in the UK with relevant permission can enable you to live in a static caravan provided the park meets certain planning conditions and the park is classed as full residential

Are static caravans designed to live in or for holidays?

Static caravans are usually designed for holiday use only where they are built to holiday specification EN1647. This means they have adequate insulation to be used between March – October in the UK. Obviously, you can stay in a static caravan outside of this period although it will not offer a level of comfort you may be accustomed to within a bricks & mortar type property, park home or a static caravan built to residential spec.

Can I live in a static caravan on a holiday park?

We would not advise moving onto a holiday park to live in a static caravan under any circumstances. Here are a few reasons why:

  • The park only has a ‘holiday’ licence so they do not have permission from the council to allow people to live in a static caravan on their park
  • A holiday park is designed and set up for people to be on holiday – not living.
  • A static caravan wouldn’t class as a postal address unless registered
  • Holiday Park can be noisier & busier compared to residential parks
  • Listing with a doctor may be a problem if not living at a registered address
  • Obtain credit or building a credit history could be a problem
  • You may not be able to register to vote from a static caravan holiday park
  • The park may only be open between 8 & 11 months of the year meaning you will need to vacate and find somewhere to live in the closed period.

It just isn’t fit for the purpose of living. With so many residential options out there including residential parks, the only reason people would move onto a holiday park is for low cost living. Our advice would still be to find somewhere else because this is not a long-term solution to your problem.

Are there any alternatives to living in a static caravan?

There are some great alternatives to living in a static caravan. These alternatives can mean a higher investment in your living space however they may be more appropriate in the long run saving you money and giving you greater long term stability.

A lodge is a great alternative to living in a static caravan. Lodges are mostly built to residential spec as standard and offer more living space.

A lodge can often have higher ceilings and feel more like an apartment rather than a static caravan lending itself to a nicer living solution. Off course the same conditions apply to a lodge where it must be on a residential park; not a holiday park if you wish to live in.

Lodge style living

This is the most common choice for people looking to enjoy Park Living. Park Homes are built to a very high standard meaning the present a better option to live in long term. The rooms in a Park Home tend to be more sectioned off like a house. When compared to lodges which can often be open plan and designed for the holiday home market. You can buy a new Park Homes or you may find a good pre owned one available through an estate agent.

Parkhome living

Beautiful Parkhome ideal for living in

  • Houseboat

Houseboats can offer an excellent choice when looking for affordable living similar to living in a static caravan. They are found in peaceful and tranquil locations and you can really put you’re on mark on a houseboat. They are also oozing with character so offer a trendy space to call your home. Houseboats can be found online with a simple Google search or try local or online estate agents for more info.

 

There are many other options to living in a static caravan

So, to evaluate, yes you can live in a static caravan provided you are situated on land with correct planning and permissions. Static caravans are built to a very high standard nowadays offering a more than comfortable place to call you own. As well as static caravans there are some great alternatives for you to live in which can offer a more suitable long-term solution. These include – lodges, Park Homes and houseboats.

Thank you for reading!

 

August 20, 2019 Daniel Clarke Residential , , , ,

5 Ways To Go On More Holidays For Less

5 Ways To Go On More Holidays For Less

Going on regular holidays is good for you.

You’ll feel better, look better and be ready to conquer the world when you get back, rested and rejuvenated.

Holidays are so relaxing that you won’t feel sleep deprived, you’ll exercise, get lots of sun to boost your vitamins, eat loads of new and exciting foods and the memories, oh the memories…

So, if they’re that good for you why do you only take one a year?

Why not double the goodness, or triple it?

Cost?

That doesn’t have to be a problem, if you’re prepared to think outside of the box…

Be your own travel agent

Last year we wanted to go somewhere sunny, in a house that could take four adults, and we didn’t want to have to drive anywhere, so the house needed to be central, in a town or village and near to a beach.

Our travel agent threw her hands up in despair and finally found a deal…£8,000 for a fortnight and it didn’t have everything we wanted!

So we did it ourselves.

A little bit of detective work on Airbnb, then booking our flights independently through an ATOL bonded travel agent and we had exactly what we wanted, for less than half the price and it was fun doing it ourselves.

If you can be flexible on dates and destination, book late

The later you leave booking the cheaper it could be.

Why?

Tour operators have already chartered the planes and reserved the rooms, they have to pay for them whether they manage to fill them or not.

As the departure date gets closer the prices start to fall – it’s better for the tour operator to get some money than none at all.

If you’re able to go at the drop of a hat, literally anywhere, the savings can be quite substantial, and you get an adventure into the bargain.

Ever thought about buying a static caravan?

I can hear you shouting at your screen – ‘I thought we were looking at ways too cut costs?’

Bear with me.

Before we stress about cost, let’s look at the advantages of ownership.

  • You can get away multiple times a year for a long weekend up to a full-on summer holiday
  • Really get to know an area – the best beaches, restaurants and activities to keep the kids happy and enjoy them year after year
  • When you’re not using your static caravan you can let your family use it
  • At other times you’ll be able to rent it out, which will go towards covering your cost, and making your own holidays essentially free

Think about it; going to your home from home whenever you want to and have your rentals cover your costs. That’s cost saving!

Also, you can often pick up pre-loved caravans at very attractive prices so you can dip your toe in the water without breaking the bank.

Home swapping – no accommodation costs, just pay to get there

Have you ever thought you’d like to visit somewhere interesting or exotic, but by the time you’d added it all up it was cheaper to go to Majorca?

Home swapping might be the answer.

Here’s how it works. You register your home on a home-swapping website with some suitable photos and descriptions. Once your profile is up and live, start looking at where you’d like to visit – anywhere worldwide and message suitable properties. Arrange to swap and away you go.

Costs to register are less than £10/month and they often offer a free trial so you can see if it’s for you.

Have a staycation…

Having a holiday doesn’t have to mean leaving the comforts of your own home. Use home as a base to really explore the area around where you live and uncover the hidden gems that you’ve never had time to consider.

Decide on how long you want to travel for, say an hour or fifty miles, and then Google attractions within fifty miles and see what pops up.

You’ll be able to go somewhere different every day. From beaches you’ve never visited to attractions you’ve never heard of you’ll have a week or two of really getting to know your own part of the country and be able to come back every night and sleep in your own bed.

Holidays are about spending time together, having fun and getting out and about to see new things and share experiences. Whether that’s in a far-flung corner of the world or closer to home, you’ll be a happier, healthier family with countless memories to cherish.

May 19, 2019 agilex Benefits of holidays, Comparing, More holidays for less, Ownership advice, Running costs, Useful articles , , ,
private

Private Static Caravan For Sale

Private static caravan for sale

If you’re considering investing in a static caravan to enjoy with the family, a private static caravan poses plenty of benefits. With regards to both price and choice, it’s an option that could certainly save you money and give you a special place to use for many years to come.

Potential savings

If you’re keen to save money, buying a private static caravan is a great option. The static caravan will usually come sited, connected and ready for you to enjoy on a holiday park in the UK.  If you shop around and do your research you can make substantial savings by purchasing privately. Established companies that are selling a large number of static caravans will often charge premium prices due to large overheads.  Opting to purchase privately will mean that you can make dramatic savings; this is because private sellers will price their static caravan to sell in order to compete with well-established sellers.

Extra benefits

A private static caravan will often be fully equipped and will come with plenty of extras that you as the new owner will enjoy. This could be in the form of kitchen appliances, TV’s etc., which will make your static caravan more homely and ready to use. A modern static caravan contains efficient appliances in the kitchen and bathrooms will be kitted out to a high standard. This will all add to your experience as a new owner, meaning you enjoy your home away from home with all your home comforts.

Great choice

When it comes to location and variety, you’re spoilt for choice when browsing for a static caravan. We have plenty of locations on our site for you to choose from, including Scotland, North Wales and Norfolk. This will enable you to choose a location that suits the kind of holiday that you want. Whether you’re after a coastal retreat, a historic setting or somewhere near a national park, you’ll find what you desire.

Piece of mind

Static caravans are the perfect getaway for families to make amazing memories in together. These days they are built to a very high standard with extra long warranties. If you choose to buy a private static caravan, there is every change it may have warranty remaining. This means that if anything does go wrong, you are able to go back to the manufacturer for help.

Are you keen to find your own private static caravan or perhaps you have one for sale? We have plenty of options available on Parklink. Contact us today – dan@parklink.uk or call 01626 333883 

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January 3, 2019 agilex Buying advice, caravan, Pros and cons, Selling your caravan holiday home , , ,

Static caravan for sale North Wales

static caravan for sale North Wales

Are you looking for a static caravan for sale in North Wales?

North Wales is a beautiful place to own a static caravan in the UK.  It is widely regarded as one of the most popular destinations in the UK due to having stunning beaches, warm climate and friendly people.

Read on to discover why searching for a static caravan for sale in North Wales is an excellent choice.

A static caravan is the 1st choice for holiday homes

A static caravan is a popular type of holiday home that remains permanently on a particular position on a holiday park. Static caravans are fantastic as they have everything you need for a holiday base for the family.

Holiday Parks in North Wales

Holiday parks in North Wales will be well presented, with plenty of facilities and activities for everyone to enjoy. Wales, and in particular North Wales, has been a popular destination for holidaymakers for decades. You will be amazed by the stunning scenery of mountain ranges as well as an idyllic coastline. Choose Wales to buy a static caravan and you will find plenty of activities to entertain the whole family. Filling the days couldn’t be easier here, with attractions like Zip World and Surf Snowdonia for all to enjoy.

A special destination for a static caravan

North Wales is an area of outstanding natural beauty with stunning scenery. In particular the Snowdonia National Park sets the region apart from others in the UK. Here visitors are able to access the historical Snowdon Mountain Railway which climbs to the summit of Wales’s highest mountain, Mount Snowdon. From here you can marvel at stunning views across the sea to Ireland.

Did you know? People from North Wales are sometimes referred to as ‘gogs’, a term that derives from the Welsh word for North.

The Welsh have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. They are proud of their history and ensure that all that visit their country feels at home. There is a proud culture in Wales which can be found in their music, customs and language. Owning your own static caravan in this region will mean you can really soak up the atmosphere and learn about another culture.

Traditional dishes to try

Finding a static caravan for sale in North Wales and buying will mean you will be able to visit more often. One of the benefits of visiting this region more often is the fantastic food. The food in Wales is diverse, but there are a number of traditional dishes visitors should try. Bara Brith is a tea loaf made with dried fruit and spices and is often enjoyed as part of an afternoon tea. Another popular delicacy is Welsh Rarebit, a take on cheese on toast with ale, mustard, cayenne pepper and Worchester sauce.

Perfect for holidays

If you’re considering purchasing your own static caravan. North Wales, with its stunning locations is a must for you to consider. It’s easily accessible from all corners of the UK, meaning visiting for a long weekend couldn’t be simpler. Due to the nature of static caravan holidays, you will find yourself outdoors more often, therefore the weather is an important factor. Luckily the coastal areas of North Wales experience plenty of sunshine in the summer months, with scorching highs of 25°C.

Make Wales YOUR second home

Popular coastal areas in North Wales include Barmouth, Fairbourne and Shell Island, all of which have their own unique appeal. Here you will find stunning places to own your own static caravan with great weather and friendly locals. It is easy to see why North Wales is such a popular choice for people looking to buy a static caravan.

Parklink is here to help you today

Are you looking for a static caravan for sale in North Wales? CLICK HERE to few a selection of parks we are working with and enquire today.

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December 18, 2018 Daniel Clarke Buying advice, caravan, Holiday Homes, Locations, Places to visit, Wales , , , , ,

Buying a static caravan pros and cons

Pro’s & Con’s of buying a static caravan

When looking to buy a static caravan, it is important that you weigh up the pro’s and con’s of buying a static caravan.  If bought for the right reasons you will be sure to find a great joy in owning a static caravan. For most venturing into the world of holiday home ownership is an enjoyable experience. You get to focus on the important things in life such as family, friends and leisure experiences.

Dream of owning your own home from home

Many holidaymakers dream of one day owning their very own home away from home. Buying a static caravan is the obvious choice where that this dream can be realised. Returning to a location that you love, to enjoy a holiday whenever you please is a great luxury. That said, buying a static caravan should always be considered carefully by those keen to take the plunge into ownership.

Here we have put together a list of pros and cons to help you make your decision a much easier one.

Holiday at times to suit you 

For many people, one  massive draw when buying a static caravan is the opportunity to go on holiday whenever they choose.  Owning your own caravan or lodge on park gives you the flexibility to arrive and depart at a time that suits you. There will be no need to book ahead or check in which can appeal to many people.

Quality of accommodation

Booking accommodation online can be a roulette. Most of the time you will fall lucky and receive a nice standard of accommodation. Other times you may get let down or something may not be quite as described.  Who enjoys spending hours browsing for the best rates in the most desirable locations only to feel let down when they are booked. Knowing where you are going and where you are staying can give you more piece of mind.

Like minded people

While the communities that we build at home are important, sometimes we need to look further afield and consider where else we can become part of something. The great thing about holiday home ownership parks is you are surrounded with like minded people which enjoy getting away and enjoying the good things in life. You are able to choose your park based on your interests and circumstances; for example, if you have children, find a family-friendly holiday park that your children will be able to make friends on. Building lasting relationships on a holiday park is great for sociable people and could present a better option than visiting a different resort or park every year.

Your static caravan can be a great source of income

Have you ever considered letting out your static caravan to other holidaymakers while you aren’t there? This can be a great source of income, especially during the peak months, such as the summer holidays. Many holiday parks have fantastic letting schemes where they can take care of all aspects of the letting for you. This will work well as you can enjoy many holidays whilst making it help towards runnings costs. There are cons associated with letting out your holiday home which you need to be aware of and ensure you have prepared for.

  • Holiday makers will not always leave in immaculate condition – Ensure you have good cleaners in place
  • You may suffer the odd breakage – Ensure you have adequate insurance cover which covers subletting
  • It may be let when you want to use – Rent out your holiday home in blocks and plan your time in first.
  • The holiday home will suffer wear & tear – With more use comes more wear & tear however the income you will make will outweigh the expense of replacing the carpet eventually or repair works.

 Cons of buying a static caravan

Whilst it is true that for most people buying a static caravan is reported to be one of the best things they have ever done.  There can be a few drawbacks that you may want to consider before making your final choice.

Being in the same location

Are you the kind of person that struggles to stay in the same place?  If so, you may struggle with the concept of visiting the same location time and time again. While it can be comforting to grow familiar with your surroundings, some may find this monotonous over time. Having said that, most parks are situated in stunning surroundings with national parks with plenty of trails and walks nearby.  This means there is plenty of opportunity to get out and about the area which will give variety to your experience.

Responsibility

Just as you need to invest in your home to maintain it, you will need to do the same with a static caravan. You will need to allow for general upkeep and ensure that your static caravan is safe to use. While it can give many a sense of pride of ownership and accomplishment. For others, maintaining their own home as well as a static caravan can be a challenge.  Parks usually provide services to help maintain your caravan including gas and electric servicing.  These services can be convenient and necessary however you will need to allow for this outlay.

Selling your static caravan

When buying a static caravan you may want to consider the process if you ever need to sell. Your static caravan is a valuable asset and at some point you may have a change of life circumstance which forces you to consider selling.  Many Parks will help you will this process and offer a price to buy it back from you. Ensure you know what the company policy if so you can plan ahead. Here at Parklink we have a dedicated page where you can advertise your private caravan for sale. Click HERE to find out more.

Memorable holidays in a place you love

While the initial investment in a static caravan represent a large purchase. It’s important to recognise the long-term enjoyment you will get from owning your own – Memorable family holidays, on your own terms, in a place that you love can mean a lot. If you value freedom, relaxation and family time then holiday home ownership will benefit you.

Parklink is here to help you buy a static caravan

Now you have considered buying a static caravan pros and cons perhaps you would like to discover more and request further information. Parklink is the ‘go to’ place if you are considering buying a static caravan and we would like to help you get the information you need.

Are you interested in buying a static caravan? Check out our ‘Search properties’ section where to can view models for sale. Search by location, holiday home types, price and much more. Click HERE to view now.

Perhaps you would like to view holiday parks where you can request direct information fast? Click HERE to view a selection of Parks in the UK you can request information on owning your own holiday home.

Thank you for reading our article. We would love to hear any further pros and cons you think would be worth sharing with people. Click HERE to get in touch!

All the best from the team at Parklink

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December 3, 2018 Daniel Clarke Pros and cons, Purchase information , , , , ,

Sell My Static Caravan

How do I Sell my static caravan

The day has arrived when you have thought.. “I need to sell my static caravan“. Like most people, this would have been the last thing you thought of when you first purchased. There are many things you now need to consider and steps you need to take. Each holiday park have their own selling rules and park policy’s so we advise to always check with your park operator to discuss your options.

Read on to discover a general guide to help you sell your static caravan

Make an appointment to discuss with the park office

When you contact your holiday park office and explain to them you want to “Sell my static caravan”, the first thing they may ask you to do is fill out a private sale agreement form. This is so they have a record that you would like to sell.

It will usually not be a priority or obligation for the park to sell your static caravan for you as can be assumed by many caravan owners. It is your property, so you will be expected to take most of the responsibility although the caravan sale will be facilitated through the Park office.

Will the company buy my caravan back?

You may be wondering “Can I sell my static caravan back to the company I bought from? There is every possibility the park will buy your caravan back however it could be a lower price than you would expect. The offer they give you will depend on demand as well as being close to a ‘trade valuation’.

Please bear in mind that caravans and lodges are depreciating assets and rarely hold their value. The park is in business so will be hoping to buy from you at a good price so they are able to sell on and make a profit.

How much should I Sell my static caravan for?

As the owner of the static caravan, you determine the final selling price. Your park operators  may be able to give you some indication of the selling price as they are dealing with buyers and sellers daily. The selling price should be a fair price which is in line with other recently sold static caravans.

Factors that can affect selling prices include:

*Supply and demand

  • How well are the static caravans selling on park and are there many empty plots available?
  • How many years has your static caravan got left on pitch licence? This will be a big factor to the buyer.
  • How much are similar models selling for? A private sale will usually sell for less than company models as they do not come with the same benefits i.e. extra warranty, consumer protection.
  • The price you paid. How much did you pay and how long have you owned. A simple equation is to deduct £1000 per year for depreciation.

Take all these factors in consideration and come up with a fair selling price you can be confident in. Here at Parklink we will be happy to help you decide a fair selling price to sell your static caravan for.

Can I put a sales notice up in my static caravan?

Most holiday parks are likely to have a policy where you are not able to put a ‘for sale’ sign in your static caravan window. This is for the good of the park as holiday parks with too many ‘for sale’ signs does not look good to potential buyers. Check with your office as they may let you put one of their branded ‘for sale’ signs in the window as a compromise.

Work with the park and together you should be able to achieve a private sale which suits all parties.

How to prepare my static caravan to sell?

Getting the ‘show-home’ look can be challenging especially if you are planning to continue to use your static caravan. Clear out as much clutter as you can and make the place as neutral as possible. Bear in mind that your tastes will not be the same as a potential buyers. Buyers need to imagine themselves being in, and owning your static caravan.  Keep the place as clean as possible and welcoming at all times. When selling your caravan it is always best to open the curtains wide, letting in the natural light.  Perhaps even open the windows as this will all help give your holiday home a welcoming natural ‘buy me’ vibe. Ensure the outside of your holiday home is clear and welcoming.

Where to advertise my static caravan

There are many places you can advertise your static caravan for sale. Advertising portals such as Gumtree or Ebay are popular for people selling static caravans and lodges. One of the downfalls of these kind of websites is they cater for many sellers and your static caravan can sometimes get lost in the system. There are many other classified websites where you can list which you can find with a simple Google search!

Here at Parklink we are experts at selling static caravans with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Listing your static caravan with Parklink means we will take the reigns for you including:

  • Advertising for you in all the best places
  • Option to list on Rightmove & Zoopla
  • The leading holiday home sales portal
  • Dedicated sale service
  • Listed on Parklink until SOLD!
With Parklink helping you sell your static caravan, your chances of selling will increase significantly.

We have many years of experience selling static caravans at all levels and have dealt with thousands of different buyers and sellers.  We are able to help people at the right stages and we can advise you on the correct selling price and give you helpful selling advice at no further charge.

What can Parklink offer me?

  • A page on the specialist Parklink website showing images, description, location and features.
  • Listing on Rightmove, Zoopla & Prime location to really boost advertising
  • Enquiry button so people can show interest in your static caravan
  • We will deal with all enquiries and pass viewings onto you
  • We can list for you on other leading classified sales portals
  • Social media advertising including Facebook, Instagram etc.
  • Sell my static caravan free advice

Click HERE to contact us at Parklink to see how we can help you today!  We would love to help you get the best price for your static caravan in the quickest time possible.

Dealing with viewings

If you have advertised through Parklink, the chances are your people will be well informed and already a great match for your static caravan. It could be that they are viewing a few different static caravans so handle the viewing in a fluent business like manner. People are looking for a general overview. Just talk naturally and be yourselves! If they want to buy, they may tell you straight away or they may want to discuss privately. Under no circumstance should you pressure the buyer for a quick decision as this can be off putting for them.

Finishing your viewing

Ensure you leave on good terms and you have all contact details to follow up later on. Parklink will also be there as a 3rd party to ask them how they found and help you get the sale!

What do I do when they say YES!

Brilliant. You have a YES! The transaction has to go through the park office. Between you and the buyer, you will agree a date they will take possession of the holiday home. All funds must be paid the park office where the company will take anything you owe on your account as well as their park private sale commission (usually 15% + VAT).  You will receive the rest into your personal bank account once processed.

Who completes the paperwork

The park operators will ensure the buyers are fully aware of park rules and run through all the relevant paperwork. Once this is all complete and they have paid the balance, the last task is for you to remove all personal items from the static caravan ready for the new owners to move in.

What happens now?

That’s it! You sit back and wait for the selling funds to go into your bank account and all finished.

Comments or selling tips of your own?

Here at Parklink we would be interested to hear any comments or suggestions you have about this article.

Selling your static caravan?

Here at Parklink we have over 20 years of experience selling static caravans and lodges so are qualifies to offer you sound advice to help you achieve a sales. We guarantee to advertise your holiday home until SOLD! Contact us today for an informal chat.

Thinking of selling your static caravan? Contact Parklink

October 11, 2018 Daniel Clarke Parklink benefits, Selling your caravan holiday home, Uncategorized , , , , , , , ,