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Should You Locate in a Mobile Home Park?
For many homeowners moving from a traditional site built home into a manufactured or modular home, one of the first decisions they face is whether to relocate to a mobile home park.
Yes, technically that should be “manufactured home park.” But “mobile home” has become so familiar in this context that even new parks use that term, despite the fact that most of the homes inside will never be put on wheels and driven away.
Still, the question remains – is this the right place for you and your family?
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of mobile home park living – and some of the challenges.
- Affordability: A space in a park will almost certainly be cheaper than purchasing an individual lot elsewhere. Plus, this way you won’t have to pay property taxes.
- Inclusive cost: Water, sewage and garbage pickup is typically included in park rental fees. When you’re on your own, you pay them yourself.
- Knowing your neighbors: If you’re a senior who would like to live around other seniors, there are 55+ parks that provide that environment. Other parks cater more to families with children.
- Shared amenities: Many mobile home parks offer swimming pools, fitness centers, and special community events throughout the year.
Sound good? It is for many manufactured home residents. But there are some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of as well.
- The stigma: People who don’t know any better still think of mobile home parks as depressing, rundown facilities on the wrong side of town. It’s a false perception, but you may have to deal with it from time to time.
- Less home appreciation: Maybe this is connected to the mobile home park stigma, but generally homes in these communities do not increase in value at the same rate as homes on private land.
- Ownership: If the owner of the park where you reside decides to sell, there may be some uncertainty as to whether the new owner will maintain the same standard of quality. This is rarely an issue, but some residents may not like having no notice or control over that situation. Co-op parks are becoming more popular and provide another option.
Is park living right for you? The experts at Ma Williams can help you decide as well.
