Steps to Owning a Holiday Home

Owning a holiday home is something that many people look into once they have a family or when they retire so they have somewhere fuss free to spend their leisure time. Holiday home ownership appeals for many reasons including not having to worry about finding accommodation, not having to worry about being somewhere you’re not familiar with and mostly because it’s yours to visit whenever you need a break away from home.

South Lakeland Parks run nine holiday home parks at a variety of locations in the North West of England including the Lake District, the Ribble Valley and Morecambe Bay.

A visit to one of South Lakeland Parks' holiday home parks will help answer many of those questions you may have about holiday home ownership. You will also be able to learn more about site licences, annual running costs, finance options and subletting opportunities.

This five step guide will help you decide if holiday home ownership is for you.

1. Consider which holiday home park is suitable for you.

Of the nine parks, there are two lakeside parks, three countryside parks and four seaside parks, each with their own style and charm, as well as facilities found on-site. You also need to make sure that the local area suits your needs and has attractions amenities that will make staying at your holiday home more enjoyable.

2. Visit the park you have selected and decide if this is the right park for you.

Once you have decided on a particular park, arrange a visit where you will be able to see how practical holiday home ownership at the park is. Is it easy to get to? Are there facilities for those that will be using the holiday home? How long is the park season? Are there any events for holiday home owners?

3. Decide if the running costs are ok.

When considering buying a holiday home you need to budget for additional running costs. Costs include rates, metered electric and metered or bottled gas. Staff at each of the parks will be able to tell you what these costs are.

4. Find the holiday home that is within your budget and best suits your needs.

This goes without saying really, but make sure that as well as buying a holiday home that has everything you need, make sure it's not going to leave you out of pocket. After all, there would be nothing worse than owning a holiday home and not having any spending money for when you use it!

5. Find a location on park to suit the holiday home you have chosen.

Staff at each of the holiday home parks will be able to let you know what plot locations are available at each of the parks. Something to bear in mind is do you want a location near the entrance, or further away where it might be quieter? Another thing to consider is that some plots might be more expensive than others, for example, a plot with an incredible sea view might be more expensive than a plot amongst other holiday homes.

When it comes to choosing what type of holiday home to buy, the choice ultimately lies with you and what fits into your budget. These are only some pointers to help you find the ideal holiday home for you. For any questions you may have regarding buying a holiday home, speak to South Lakeland Parks who will be happy to advise you on the various options.