In the UK, living in a mobile home is becoming increasingly popular due to the rising costs of living, soaring house prices and the ever-increasing rates for senior and elderly care.
Whether it’s on a residential park or on your own, private land, living in a static caravan full time can prove to be an affordable, comfortable and convenient option that comes with a number of great benefits.
Here is a guide covering some of the things you need to know and consider about living in a mobile home full time.
Choosing your mobile home
Long gone are the days of dark, cramped and old-fashioned static caravans. The contemporary units on offer today are spacious, bright and modern with a wide range of choices and customisations for size, layout, accessibility, exterior, décor and appliances. When you are looking at mobile homes for sale, take your time to carefully consider what it is you want, who is going to be living there and weigh up the options of buying new or looking at a preowned caravan that could stretch the budget even further or save you some money.
Moving in check list
Once you have bought a home there are some things you will need to do before you make the transition and the move to full-time caravan living.
- Create a proper budget of all costs so that you know what your monthly and yearly expenditures will be (utilities, maintenance, insurance, land rental, site fees etc)
- If you are downsizing then it is advisable that you have a really good clear out of your belongings and decide what you want to bring with you, what you can donate and if you need to put anything into storage.
- If applicable you may need to organise transportation, siting and insurance.
On your own land
Mobile homes are being used more often than ever as a solution for those wishing to care for older parents or relatives. Care homes and assisted living are incredibly expensive, but for families who have the space, adding a static caravan in their garden or on their land can be a great alternative. Not only does it mean they can be close by to help look after and spend time with their elderly relatives, but they retain their freedom and independence in a home of their own, whilst still being in close proximity to the family. If this is something you are looking at for year-round living then it is likely you will need planning permission before siting a caravan on your land, so be sure to secure this ahead of purchasing.
Weatherproof
If you are expecting to live in a mobile home year-round then it is important you make sure that it is equipped to keep you comfortable during the coldest days, the hottest days and everything in between. This might include;
- Buying a unit that is built to residential specifications BS3632
- Ensuring it is fully insulated or that extra insulation is added
- Thick, blackout curtains help in the summer and winter
- Air conditioning or fan units
- Window screens and films
- An efficient boiler/heating system
Maintenance
Just like any bricks and mortar property, mobile homes require some simple checks, regular maintenance and cleaning to help keep them in top working order and prevent issues from arising. Be sure to keep a checklist and set regular reminders to inspect things such as;
- The roof
- Guttering
- Foundation
- Skirting
- Windows and caulking
- Heating and HVAC systems
If there are signs of any issues, then it’s best to get them resolved as quickly as possible because what might seem like a small problem can soon affect the whole home.