Thinking of purchasing or upgrading your holiday home in 2021? Look no further for advice!
Choosing the right model for you and your needs is both exciting and challenging; as a home away from home, it’s got to be just what you’re looking for – as well as being within budget.
As we prepare for the New Year, we took some time to speak to N.Doe Caravans, holiday home and park home specialists from the south of England, to share some insider tips on the best questions to ask yourself when looking to buy, and how you can find the perfect unit for 2021.
Holiday homes in 2021
This year we have all stayed at home more than usual, and for many, it has further highlighted the importance of where we live and how we live in our homes. You may have a small unit and want more space, or are looking to upgrade as a way to change your scenery. With new collections on the way, it’s a good time to buy, whether you prefer brand new units or used holiday homes.
Consider the following when you’re browsing and shopping:
What are your family’s priorities?
How you use your holiday home will undoubtedly have a big impact on the final model you choose. You may buy a twin unit if you need plenty of space – perhaps you work from home? – or you may choose a three or four bedroom to plan for the future if your family is still growing. As caravans can last many years, it’s best to understand how your requirements may change and what you can do now to accommodate them.
Questions to ask yourself:
- How many rooms do you need?
- Which features are most important to you?
- Which layouts do you prefer?
- Will you sublet?
With this in mind, also check if alterations that offer more outside space can be made once it’s sited if you’re moving to or within a park. For example, are you allowed to add decking? This could influence the size of caravan you ultimately want.
Check with your desired holiday park for 2021
If you are investing in a holiday home at a holiday park, always discuss what their requirements are, especially in terms of size and age. This will narrow down your options when you’re doing your research and will help you pinpoint a final selection to choose between.
Parks will generally want to keep high standards and this has its benefits for you, the owner – choosing a high-quality caravan means it will be nicer to live in, easier to rent out, and longer-lasting, which all improves the value of your investment.
Consider rental possibilities
If your holiday home is one you may rent out at peak times throughout the year, it’s best to put yourself in a holidaymaker’s shoes and think about what they will be looking for when it’s time for them to take a break.
Taking this into account, it’s best to avoid holiday homes that have been drastically altered by previous owners if you’re buying second hand. Any decor changes may not be to everyone’s personal tastes and the closer it is to how it was designed by the manufacturer the better.
Always view holiday homes in person
Photographs and virtual tours can give a fantastic overall impression of a place, but to truly understand the space and make your final decision, you need to see it in person. When you’ve booked in a viewing, plan a list of questions to ask the seller and particular things to check out. For example, look at the chassis for any signs of rust, ask about any warranty stipulations, and learn more about its service history and how it’s been used in the past.
If you’re looking at a brand new model, viewing is more about understanding all of the features that are included, how long the warranty will last and whether it feels like the right home for you and your family. Always remember to check the unit thoroughly before purchase, and make sure you know how to fully maintain it – both when you’re holidaying, and when you’re home.
Popular features of holiday homes in 2021
Whilst owners will differ in their preferences, there are some definite winning features of holiday homes that make them more appealing and comfortable.
These include:
- Double glazing
- Central heating
- A modern kitchen
- Open plan living space
- An en-suite
Modern holiday homes are likely to include some or all of these features, but double-check for any older models you’re considering. If not, are there any improvements you’d be happy to make after purchase? If so, consider these in your budget alongside site fees and ongoing maintenance costs.
When is the right time to buy?
Once you have your finances prepared and know you can afford to buy a holiday home of a certain price, the right time to buy is when you’ve found the place to site it. You should always have the arrangement with a holiday park, or the right permissions to site it on private land before shopping for your desired caravan, as well as a plan to assemble and level it where necessary.
Got an unanswered question about looking for a holiday home in 2021?
If you’d like more information from N.Doe Caravans, please call 01403 274877 or visit their website, which has resources on used holiday homes and much more. They transport and site holiday homes across the UK and beyond, with everything in place to complete journeys securely and safely.
For more information on ownership at any Lyons Holiday park in North Wales or Cumbria, contact us on 01745 362020.
