7 things to consider when buying static caravan

Buying a static caravan is a substantial investment. Whether you get it on-site or off-site, a static caravan can provide you with the liberty to enjoy your mobile lodge for the better part of the year. However, there are many factors that you will have to consider before deciding to buy one.

Most people who buy a caravan typically want it installed in a holiday park – be it a large, group-owned holiday park or a small, independent one. Irrespective of where you want your caravan sited, some things remain constant for all buyers. In this article, we will be discussing some of those things, so you have an easier time planning for one.

Sort Out Your Financing

The first thing you need to consider when looking for a static caravan for sale, is how much it will cost you to buy one. Fortunately, most major holiday home parks, dealerships, and groups today offer a range of competitive static caravan finance deals that make it easier for anyone to own a holiday home.

However, you are advised to still check with finance comparison sites as you might be to get financing from lenders like banks at lower interest rates. Simultaneously, there are caravan dealerships that offer extremely competitive rates that stack up quite well. Also, consider checking with holiday park groups as some of the top ones typically have financing packages designed explicitly for caravan acquisitions with extra benefits.

Set a Budget and Account for All Revenues and Costs

Once you've arranged your financing, the next thing you need to do is come up with a budget. For most people looking to buy a static caravan, their budget has to fit within their lifestyle and income. When determining your budget, keep in mind that you still have annual costs to cater to, such as energy costs, water rates, insurance, administration, and site fees. Fortunately, there are ways you can offset some of these costs, like subletting your caravan for extra revenue. However, before subletting, read through your contract to see what the terms and conditions say. 

Subletting your caravan when you aren't using it can generate a substantial income that you can direct towards settling your caravan cost or paying annual fees. If the owner gets the booking for you, chances are they'll charge you a small fee. In light of this, make sure you read the subletting details of any proposed agreements to understand how things work. Once you have all the information you need, come up with a budget that fits within your means, and make sure you're fully insured.

Pick a Holiday Park Location That's Conducive to You

With financing in place and a budget in hand, you can now start your journey to finding the perfect static caravan in your preferred or most ideal location. In most cases, it's logical that you start by picking a location first. When considering holiday park options, go for something with all the amenities you need and within your budget. Also, consider if the location and surroundings of the holiday park fit your criteria.

With a location already picked out, you can then start discussions with the owners of the park about: where on the park the caravan will be sited; the caravan range they accept on the park; the costs involved; and whether you can buy the caravan as an individual or through the park; amongst other things. One of the critical things to consider is where you want your caravan setup. If you have a family, it's best you have it installed near central amenities, close to the pool, or near playgrounds. Most couples prefer a plot with an advantage, a view, or a quiet corner.

Choose Your Caravan Manufacturer

There are many caravan home manufacturers in the UK that make and provide quality holiday homes. When looking to buy a static caravan, we recommend that you approach a stable, UK-based manufacturer that: has been in the business for years; has a proven track record; offers enforceable guarantees and warranties; and whose parts are easily accessible. While static caravan manufacturers in the UK offer a wide range of quality holiday homes, some of them can be quite expensive and could straddle your budget if you aren't careful. To ensure you pick a holiday lodge that's within your budget, make sure you first get a feel of what different manufacturers have to offer. Consider researching various online sites to see which brands offer the best value for your money.

Pick a Range That Best Suits Your Budget and Taste

Plenty of static caravan manufacturers means plenty of holiday home options. With a range of options to choose from, consider picking a home that's within your budget and pick a size and style that suits you.

When it comes to static caravans, size matters - and while larger caravans offer more space, they tend to be more costly. One of the things you need to consider is how many bedrooms you need. While homes with more bedrooms typically have smaller communal areas, they are typically more flexible, especially when it comes to subletting. However, if you intend to share the caravan with one more person, then consider getting a 2-bedroomed holiday home for maximum enjoyment.

Static caravans are available in various sizes, with the standard widths for a holiday home being 10 ft. X 12 ft. and that of a lodge being 20 ft. X 22 ft. Something worth noting is that their lengths generally aren't standardized and typically range from 28 ft. to about 38 ft. long. However, some can be as long as 40 ft. long (holiday lodges.) In most cases, the size of caravan you're able to buy is determined by the pitch size you choose to site the home.

Go Over the Finer Details

Once you've settled on the size and number of bedrooms you want, start thinking about fittings, features, and fixtures. Some of the critical things you might want to consider include insulation, central heating, and double glazing. These are crucial if you plan on using the home during winter. If you are thinking of having your static home installed on a holiday park that's near the sea, consider getting a caravan with a galvanized chassis as salty sea air increases the corrosion time of painted or bare steel.

Most of the static caravans being made today come with a host of new features. If your budget allows it, you can get a caravan with its bath, and some holiday parks might even allow you to have a private outdoor hot tub. Another thing to consider is the aesthetics and design of your caravan. Pick a model that fits your taste and style, from ultra-modern, contemporary, and clean designs to homely ranges. With so many styles to choose from, try your best to ensure you choose the perfect balance between comfort and style.

Talk Things Out with Your Holiday Park

Finally, have an honest and open discussion with the people who own or manage your holiday park. Before you start discussing anything, remember that they are running a business and that you'll be paying for the amenities and space you use on a monthly or yearly basis. With that in mind, make sure you talk about what you want as a tenant and acknowledge what the park owners want in return and what they allow. Considering how vital the relationship between you and the park owner is, do your best to build an understanding between the two of you that will last long, so you have an easy time and stay at the park.

Fortunately, most holiday parks allow tenants to buy from independent suppliers they endorse like and let you view products from different manufacturers and brands before you make a purchase. Talking to independent suppliers is a great way to start your static caravan search if you are new to the holiday home homeownership process.