NEVER THROW CAUTION TO THE WIND:

August 2021

I start by emphasising that most people buy into the Park Homes market and in a phrase “live happily ever after.” That importantly said, just as in any major purchase of any product or service, there are sellers keen to exploit the unwitting,

It`s easy to be caught up in the enthusiasm. The new bungalow style home, a manageable outdoor space, the choices between innovative designs, the usually rural living and perhaps the pot of savings that can add to the enjoyment of winding down working lives or retirement - But that also said, where subsequent problems arise, most can be traced back to the time of purchase, where people entered into Agreements, having just scanned the terms ( or never having seen them at all ) whilst being verbally reassured by the sales person, the focus perhaps being where their furniture might fit or need to be replaced, the important questions lost in the prospect of a new and different lifestyle.

For those who do have problems, much more often than not, they could have been avoided, where caution was thrown to the wind and otherwise usually sensible people have handed over large sums of money to strangers, believing that just because there`s no procedural need to engage a solicitor to oversee the transaction, the proportionate costs can therefore be saved. In short, it never ceases to amaze, that what should be seen as a vital aspect of the buyers future security is simply left to random chance.

Park Home law is complex. It is also often ambiguous and equally open to correct interpretations and misleading misinterpretations. It`s essential to understand precisely what a given term can mean if abused or misinterpreted, often more important than the form of text employed. A solicitor, independent of the park owner, who can explain where and how things can go wrong should be the first consideration and not the last. To summarise, not instructing a solicitor familiar with Park Home law is nothing short of reckless.

If you`re planning to buy a Park Home, you can be directed to lawyers who specialise in ensuring that you are fully aware of your rights and obligations and will take you through the process. Of course there is a fee to be paid but the costs should be included in every budget. Better to have imperfect curtains than find yourself later embroiled in legal disputes

 The moment you`ve decided to move forward, instructing an independent solicitor familiar with park home law is the FIRST thing you should do and if any park owner attempts to persuade you otherwise, it is the first clear indication that you should walk away.

Tony Turner

Park Homes Policy Forum