Purchasing a static caravan is a big investment and not something you want to rush into without the proper research and information to help you make an informed decision. Choosing, sourcing and buying a static caravan should be an enjoyable endeavour, but it is important to know what to look out for so that you can find a caravan that is the best fit for your needs.
Whether you are an existing static caravan owner looking to upgrade or are buying for the first time, here is our comprehensive guide of top tips and advice for choosing the right static caravan.
Why Are You Buying A Static Caravan?
This may seem like an obvious or simple question, but it will impact the search and help to narrow things down.
Gone are the days where static caravans and mobile homes were just purchased as a holiday getaway, but they are now used in numerous other ways such as;
- As an annexe in a back garden for extra accommodation
- As a summer house or pool house
- As an alternative living solution for elderly relatives
- Additional space for a playhouse or home office / business
- For use during a self-build project
- Alongside fishing lakes
The purpose for which you are going to be using the caravan will impact your needs and therefore your search criteria.
What Are Your Requirements?
Leading on from the first question, you need to put together a list of your requirements, including any non-negotiables. How many rooms do you need? Are there any mobility issues you need to consider when it comes to access, door widths and bathrooms? If you are looking for one on a holiday park then location and amenities will be a factor.
If you only want something for seasonal use as a holiday getaway for example or maybe a summer house/pool house then you will be ok with a caravan built to EN1647 standards. However, if it is to be used year-round or lived in full time then you will need to ensure that you only look at ones that are built to BS3632 which is the residential spec.
What Is Your Budget?
Your budget will allow you to look at what’s on the market in that price bracket, give you a realistic idea of what you will be able to get for your money and help narrow down your options. It might be that you want something custom or brand new, but this will come at a price and you may need to compromise on size or spec to make it affordable.
However, if you have a limited budget or want to get the most for your money then it could be well worth looking at used static caravans for sale. This can be a great way to get something that is bigger or of a higher spec that’s maybe a little older or it could be that it just needs a little work and DIY to update it and make it your own.
Choosing Your Static Caravan
Now you know what you want, what you are looking for and exactly how much you are able to spend you can start shopping around and going to view caravans. You might need to visit the park if you are looking for a sited holiday home or find a local showroom if you are wanting to sit on your own land.
Make sure you do your due diligence and if buying preowned you ask to see any warranties or guarantees that are still in place and give the place a proper check over, bringing a knowledgeable friend or an expert along if necessary to check things such as electricals.
Don’t rush your decision or feel pressured into a sale by anybody, it is a big decision and it’s important to take your time. Get a second opinion by going along with someone you trust, check reviews if buying from a company and ensure that it is the right static caravan at the right price.
