You’ve enjoyed living or holidaying in your static caravan. You’ve had some wonderful times there, and you’re sorry to see it go – but circumstances have changed, and you’ve made the decision to put it up for sale. “I want to sell my static,” you’re thinking. “But how do I get about it?”
There are a few ways you can sell, including to the park on which it sits, or to a third party or in a private sale. But which of these options is the best? There are a few things which will have a bearing on who you sell to, and how much you charge for your static caravan in a sale, so we’ll begin by going through them here.
What Affects the Value of Your Static Caravan?
1. Condition
If your static is in superb condition – as close to new as possible – then you will undoubtedly receive a much higher price than if it has been allowed to get into a state of disrepair, or has become very tired and a bit shabby. Although wear and tear is always to be expected, most buyers will be looking for a static caravan that has had TLC lavished upon it during its life thus far. Cleaning it regularly, and keeping on top of small maintenance jobs and repairs, is very important.
2. Extras
If you have added brand new double glazing and a central heating system at some point after the caravan’s manufacture then this is likely to be a factor during any negotiation process over price. Similarly, if you have installed decking outside the static it can add more value. Decking areas tend to improve the exterior appearance of static caravans and, of course, provide another social space, itself a further selling point. New stairs and skirting is also a way to improve your chances of a higher price when you come to sell.
3. Pitch
Location means a lot, and if you have a truly premium pitch position on the caravan park then you should be able to negotiate a better price. People are usually willing to pay a little more for a static caravan if the view is spectacular (or even just great) and the general position of the caravan feels above average.
Who Should I Sell My Static Caravan To?
1. Park owner
Often the quickest way to sell your static is to your park owner. Many caravan parks will buy a holiday home for a fair price, and a big benefit of selling to a park is there won’t be sales commission or disconnection costs. As you’re not selling the pitch or licence agreement, the price will depend on the age, condition, and current trade value of your static caravan. If you sell your caravan privately or use a dealer, you might have some additional costs to cover.
2. Dealer
A static caravan dealer is likely to offer you just about the same amount as a caravan park for your static, though you may strike it lucky and find a dealer who offers you a little bit more. Holiday home dealers tend to base their offer on calculations involving the same factors – current trade value and condition, etc. You should always get two or three quotes from different dealers so you can ensure the best return on your investment.
3. Private sale
You may prefer to sell privately, in which case you should contact the park owner / operator and let them know that you intend to do so. You will then need to agree on a resale value for your caravan, pitch and licence agreement.
Moving on!
1. Notice
To terminate your agreement with the park, you need to provide written notice at the appropriate moment. This can be anywhere between two weeks and three or four months – so you should check your documentation to make sure you comply with this legal requirement.
2. Finance
You probably didn’t pay your static with a lump sum, so it’s likely that there is some finance still outstanding. It is actually not legal to sell a holiday home with outstanding finance attached to it, so you must contact your finance company and come up with a plan for the remaining finance to be paid off, to make the sale possible. You should also pay up any outstanding bills before you leave – water, gas, electric and internet plus, of course, pitch and park fees.