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Buying a Residential Park Home: Your Guide

Your guide to buying a residential park home

If you’re dreaming of a quieter pace of life, a home that’s easier to manage, or simply a fresh start somewhere peaceful, we can help.

This guide, based on advice from Park Home & Holiday Caravan magazine, is designed to answer the questions we hear most often from people considering the move to a residential park home.

If you’d rather chat things through, call us on 01568 708326, drop us an email, or come and see us at Rockbridge Residential Park – we’re always happy to help.

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1. Choose your park

When buying a residential park home, the most important decision isn’t just about the home – it’s about where to place it. Even if the same model is available on different parks, the daily experience can differ greatly based on location, community, and setting.

At Discover Parks, we take a relaxed, no-pressure approach to sales. If we’re the right fit for you, great – but if another park feels more like home, that’s perfectly fine. We’re always here to offer advice, no matter where you are in the process.

Things to consider:

What is a park home?

Park homes are modern, purpose-built homes designed for year-round residential living, located on dedicated residential parks like Rockbridge. They’re often used by people over the age of 50 who are looking for an alternative to specialised retirement housing.

Unlike static caravans or lodges, a park home is a permanent residence, built by specialist manufacturers, offering more space, comfort, and features than its holiday counterparts.

Is the location right for you?

Moving to a park home is a big step, and choosing a location you’ll enjoy in all seasons is key. Some people like to stay close to their original home patch, while others see it as a chance to try somewhere new.

Think about how easy it’ll be for friends and family to visit. What does the surrounding area offer – country walks, shops, public transport, healthcare, or hobbies you enjoy?

Are there local amenities nearby?

Even in peaceful spots, it’s reassuring to have essentials close by – like a village shop, a good pub, or a nearby GP. You may also want easy access to public transport, such as a bus route or train station.

Rockbridge can tick yes to all the above – and more!

Is the park good for children?

If you have children or grandchildren, consider how they’ll spend their time. Are there places to explore or activities nearby? Does the park offer open spaces where they can play?

At Rockbridge Residential Park we welcome visiting grandchildren and there’s plenty of rural activities to keep them busy – long walks, river fishing and a leisure centre in nearby Presteigne.

Do you have pets?

If you’re moving with a dog (or planning to get one), check that the park is not only pet-friendly (we are!) but also pet-welcoming.

At Rockbridge, there’s an enclosed dog exercise area on our adjacent holiday park and a dog wash room with dryer!

Stamp Duty

The good news is that there’s no stamp duty when you buy a park home!

Rockbridge Residential Park

Our park sits on the banks of the River Lugg, surrounded by peaceful, rolling countryside.

We’re just a short drive from the market town of Presteigne – an International Dark Sky Community known for its incredible stargazing. Knighton and Kington are also close by, while Ludlow and Leominster are only 30 minutes away. The Shropshire Hills and Welsh border towns are within easy reach, offering plenty to explore.

For pet owners, there are woodland trails, riverside paths, and fields to walk – plus a dedicated off-lead area, a dog wash room, and dog-friendly pubs and cafés nearby.

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Residential - Discover Parks

2. Park home prices & running costs

Prices for park homes vary depending on size, layout, age, and finish. Along with the manufacturer’s base price, you’ll also need to factor in transport, installation, and connection fees to mains services.

If you’re considering residential parks, residential static caravan sites or exploring long-term caravan rentals, it’s worth speaking to a solicitor who understands the industry.

Ongoing Costs:

Council tax

At Rockbridge Residential Park, residents pay either Council Tax Band A or B depending on the size and age of the property. If you live alone, you may be eligible for a single person discount. You can check this with the local council.

Ground rent

This is similar to the ground rent you pay on a leasehold property and helps us cover the upkeep of shared spaces and facilities. The rent depends on the size of the property and is generally paid monthly.

Utility bills

At Rockbridge, water rates are paid quarterly and electricity is metered, paid quarterly and based on useage. Gas is LPG and provided direct from the supplier.

Insurance

You’ll need specialist insurance cover for your park home. These policies usually offer new-for-old replacement, including delivery, siting, and site clearance. Many also include legal expenses cover, which can be a valuable extra. Make sure your sums insured reflect the full cost of replacing your home and contents as new.

Maintenance & Servicing

Like any home, park homes require regular upkeep.

Rockbridge park home running costs 2025-2026

Council Tax Band A £1,490
Bank B £1,738
Water Rates Per quarter £62.95 
Electric – metered Per quarter Based on usage
Gas – LPG Per quarter Based on usage
Ground rent Per month £125-£200

These figures show the typical running costs at Rockbridge Park.

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3: Choose Your Park Home

Once you’ve found the right residential park, the next step is choosing your home. Some people know immediately which one feels right, while others need more time to consider options. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Patio doors & decking

One of the best things about park home living is being able to enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Homes with patio doors—whether at the front, side or both—make it easy to step straight onto the decking with your morning cuppa or settle in with a book as the sun goes down.

Layout & bedrooms

Most people find two bedrooms is just right: one to sleep in, one for guests or a hobby room. If you’re planning regular visitors, you might prefer a three-bedroom model—or a home with a sofa bed in the lounge for flexibility.

Open plan or separate lounge

Open-plan living suits sociable types and makes the space feel larger. A separate lounge, on the other hand, offers a bit more privacy—especially if you like to read or watch the telly without hearing the kettle boil.

Shower or bath?

All park homes have at least one shower room. Some come with a bath as well—worth considering if that’s part of your daily wind-down. An en-suite or second bathroom can also make a difference when family come to stay.

4: Choose your plot

Sunshine or shade?

Consider how the sun moves across the plot. Morning sun is great for breakfast on the decking, while evening sun makes for a lovely sunset spot. If you’re lucky, you can enjoy both.

Views & setting

Would you rather be tucked away in a quiet corner, overlooking green space, or close to your neighbours for a more sociable setting? There’s no right or wrong—just what feels right for you.

Access & parking

Is the plot level and easy to reach? Some homes have private parking right alongside, while others make use of shared parking nearby. We can add access ramps to the decking if needed, so the space works for you now and in the future.

Other considerations

Do I need a contract?

Yes. If you’re buying a park home, the Mobile Homes Act 1983 requires you to sign a Written Agreement with the park owner. This outlines your rights and responsibilities, along with the park’s obligations. If you’re buying directly from the park, they must give you this agreement at least 28 days before the sale (unless you agree otherwise).

What guarantees do I get?

New homes usually come with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty, and many also include a 10-year structural guarantee for added peace of mind.

Should I get a survey?

If you’re buying a pre-owned home, a survey is a smart move. A specialist park home surveyor can give you a detailed condition report, which is especially helpful if you’re new to this kind of property. Companies like Blue Chip Park Homes Ltd offer independent surveys across the UK.

What if I want to sell?

Since changes to the Mobile Homes Act in 2013, you can now sell your park home on the open market without needing approval from the park owner. However, you’re required by law to pay the park a commission of up to 10% of the sale price.

For more information, visit: www.gov.uk/park-mobile-homes.

Discover Parks Always here to help

Ready to take the next step?

We’re here to help every step of the way, with no pressure and no hard sell. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to make a decision, we’ll make sure you have all the information you need.

Got questions? Let’s chat!