When looking at Holiday Lodge or Caravan ownership on a Holiday park, one thing we need to do is to consider the benefits and potential drawbacks before purchasing…
For some, the prospect of owning a second home or holiday home is out of reach and out of mind. However, holiday parks provide an affordable option, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the beauty of Great British Holidays.
We understand that the decision to buy a holiday home is not easy and can sometimes take years. It is all about finding the right park and the right area. In this article, our Director and Head of Sales, Chris, outlines the benefits and potential drawbacks of owning a holiday caravan or lodge. Like every decision in life, nothing is perfect; it is about finding the perfect option for you!
1. Affordability
Pros:
- Holiday caravans and lodges offer a more affordable alternative to traditional houses or flats, meaning less financial strain and easier access to a holiday home lifestyle.
- As of 31st May 2024; the average price of a property in Cornwall was £338,516. A holiday caravan at one of our parks starts from £21,995 with anything up to £199,995 so there are options to suit every budget.
Cons:
- While more affordable than traditional homes, the purchase still requires a significant initial investment.
- Financing options may vary, and potential buyers need to consider long-term financial commitments.
2. Responsible Ownership
Pros:
- Holiday parks provide suitable accommodations without impacting local housing supplies, supporting the local economy without the negative effects of holiday lets.
- By choosing a holiday park, you help maintain the balance between tourism and residential needs in popular areas.
Cons:
- Potential owners must adhere to the park’s regulations, which may restrict certain activities.
- The responsibility of maintaining the balance between tourism and local community needs falls on the park management.
3. Maintenance
Pros:
- Parks handle landscaping, groundskeeping, and other maintenance tasks, ensuring the park always looks its best.
- Additional services like end-of-season drain downs and pressure washing are often available.
- Coast & Country Parks’ well-trained team offers a range of services, allowing you to focus on relaxation.
Cons:
- Maintenance services come at a cost, typically included in annual site fees.
- Owners must rely on the park’s schedule and availability for certain maintenance tasks.
4. Security
Pros:
- Holiday parks often have robust security measures, including barriers, ANPR, and on-site staff so owners can feel secure knowing their property is protected even when they are not there.
- Coast & Country Parks provides peace of mind with staff on-site daily and wardens based on the park.
Cons:
- Security measures might limit access to the park, requiring coordination for guests and deliveries.
- Some owners may prefer more personalised security solutions that are not standard in all parks.
5. Site Fees
Pros:
- Site fees contribute to the overall maintenance and operation of the park, ensuring a pleasant environment, these are typically reviewed annually, providing some predictability in budgeting.
- Coast & Country Parks is transparent about site fees and their changes over the years.
Cons:
- Site fees can vary significantly and may increase over time, impacting the overall cost of ownership.
- Owners must budget for these recurring costs in addition to the purchase price.
6. Energy costs
Pros:
- Utilities like gas and electricity are managed by the park, simplifying billing and maintenance.
- Coast & Country Parks offers convenient services for gas bottle replacement and other utilities.
Cons:
- Owners cannot choose their utility providers, potentially leading to higher costs.
- Monitoring usage and managing costs can be challenging, especially with variable rates.
7. Connectivity
Pros:
- Many parks offer some level of internet connectivity, which can be included in site fees.
- Coast & Country Parks provides Wifi as well as EV charging stations, supporting sustainable travel options.
Cons:
- High-speed internet might not be available in all parks, affecting those who require reliable connectivity for work.
- Limited mobile signal in remote areas can be inconvenient for some owners.
8. Seasonal periods
Pros:
- Parks typically close for a few months each year, allowing for necessary maintenance and upgrades.
- Long open seasons, like the minimum 10 months at Coast & Country Parks, provide ample time to enjoy the property.
- Owning a holiday home ensures you have a dedicated place to escape to during the open season.
Cons:
- Seasonal closures mean the property cannot be used year-round, which might be a limitation for some.
- Owners must plan their visits around the park’s operational calendar.
9. Letting your holiday home
Pros:
- Restrictions on renting out holiday homes ensure a quiet, undisturbed environment for owners.
- Owners can still share their holiday home with friends and family.
- Coast & Country Parks’ policy ensures your holiday home remains a peaceful retreat.
Cons:
- Inability to rent out the property might be a drawback for those looking to offset costs through rental income.
- Owners must cover all costs without the option of generating rental revenue.
In Summary…
Owning a holiday caravan or lodge at Coast & Country Parks offers numerous benefits, from affordability and responsible ownership to maintenance and security. However, potential buyers should consider the annual site fees, energy costs, connectivity issues, seasonal restrictions, and letting limitations.
While our lodges and caravans cannot be used as a permanent residence, and we do not permit owners to rent them out, this ensures your holiday home remains a peaceful retreat for you and your loved ones. You can still invite friends and family to stay, making it a perfect getaway spot to share with loved ones.
At Coast & Country Parks, we specialise in quiet, nature-focused holiday parks. If you are seeking a holiday park with all the facilities and evening entertainments, then owning a holiday home with Coast & Country Parks might not be for you.
This is why we are upfront with our customers before they purchase, ensuring that you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. We believe in transparency and honesty, so you can fully understand the terms and enjoy your holiday home with complete peace of mind.
Want to learn more?
Whether you are just starting your journey or are a seasoned holiday home owner, our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you are interested in owning a holiday home and want to know more, speak to Chris at chris@coastandcountryparks.co.uk or call 07429848451.
Coast & Country Parks are an award-winning, family-run group of four holiday parks spread across the South West. Specialising in small and quiet holiday parks set in tranquil locations, prospective owners can use these as a base to detach from the bustle of everyday life or explore the beauty of the South West.
