by Louise Nilon

Created on: January 08, 2009   Last Updated: March 03, 2011

A mobile home (or static caravan) is a cheap alternative to a house made of bricks and mortar, it is a useful living space that can easily accommodate a small family. They are comfortable, useful living spaces that many people only consider for a camping holiday. However some people use them as their everyday accommodation.

Whether you are considering buying a mobile home as a permanent residence or a holiday home there are many advantages and disadvantages to consider before spending your money.

Before buying a mobile home you should realize that you are unlikely to see a return on your money as the value of mobile homes depreciate similarly to car prices. However they do make a good alternative to renting which can be considered as "dead money." If you are investing in a mobile home as a holiday home then money can be recouped from letting out your holiday home.

Mobile homes are suitable accommodation but when considering living in one permanently you should remember that space inside them is limited. If you have lots of things you may struggle with mobile home living. You may need to decide what you do and do not really need in your mobile home as they can easily look cramped and overcrowded if you have too many things in them.

There is no doubt that living in a mobile home is a cheap way of life. You can buy a new mobile home for as little as £40,000. However, in the UK you should be aware of any extra charges you may face such as ground rent. You should also check the opening times of mobile home parks in the UK before purchasing a home as some sites close for up to 8 weeks and are not open for permanent residency.

During the summer a mobile home is a great thing to own. For those like myself who spent many a summer vacation in a static caravan it makes you feel as though every day is a holiday. They are bright, airy and are a really pleasant place to live. In hot weather a mobile home will stay warm long after the sun has gone down and you will be unlikely to use many gas cylinders at all during summer months.

However, during winter months a mobile home can be uncomfortable to live in; think of it as similar to living in a giant fridge-freezer! Most mobile homes are not insulated for winter living, pipes will need to be well-lagged to make sure your water supply does not freeze up. You should also have lots of thick sweaters and extra blankets ready for the winter months; one of my neighbors was late for work during a recent cold

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>