Buying a park home: avoid the swindle
‘The Mobile Home Swindle’
Following a recent Panorama episode entitled ‘The Mobile Home Swindle’ we have received increased enquiries from prospective buyers of mobile homes concerned about the issues raised in the program. Buying a park home can be an appealing option for many seeking a more affordable, community orientated lifestyle. Our Head of Property Mark Laird shared his top tips for clients looking to buy a park home.
1. Instruct a solicitor
Nobody will be surprised when a firm of solicitors recommends paying a solicitor to review legal papers. However, there is no formal requirement for buyers and sellers of park homes to instruct a legal advisor. The process of buying a park home is set out in law. A solicitor will be able to explain the process to you and ensure you understand your rights and obligations as an owner of a park home.
2. Understand what you are buying
Unlike a conventional house or flat, the owner of a park home does not have any interest in the land on which the home is situated. A buyer of a park home will own the mobile home itself but not the land. The Mobile Home Agreement will give permission for the home to be kept on the site but the land will still belong to the owner of the park.
3. Obtain information on the park and its rules
Before buying a park home it is important to ensure you properly research the park and its owner. Does the park have the necessary licence and planning permission to be used for the siting of full-time residential homes or does it allow short term holiday lets only? What charges will be payable for gas, electricity, water and any other essential services? Many parks have restrictions and rules limited who can live on the site and restrictions on keeping pets and other animals.
4. Have the home inspected by a specialist surveyor
You should have the home inspected prior to purchasing the same to ensure it is in a satisfactory condition and ensure you are aware of any necessary repairs. The surveyor will also be able to explain how the value of the home is likely to decrease over time.
5. Paying commission
When buying a park home, a commission will be payable to the owner of the park on which the home is situated. The commissions is capped by law at 10% of the sale price. When buying a park home the buyer will pay 90% of the sale price to the seller and the remaining 10% to site owner.
Residential Property & Conveyancing Team
At Morrish Solicitors each of our specialist property lawyers has decades of experience in assisting with purchases of residential property and are ready to assist you in buying or selling your park home. To enquire about our residential property and conveyancing services please call us on 033 3344 9600 or simply email [email protected] with your request.
Author: Mark Laird, property.
