Hidden Costs Shock Most Owners

Many holiday home buyers focus solely on the purchase price, missing the ongoing commitment of pitch fees that can significantly impact their long term enjoyment. Lets uncover what pitch fees actually are, what they cover, and how to make sure you're getting value for money.

What are holiday park pitch fees?

Think of pitch fees as ground rent for your slice of paradise. When you buy a static caravan or lodge youre purchasing just the holiday home itself. The pitch fee is what you pay annually to keep your holiday home on its designated spot within the park. These fees are standard across all UK holiday parks and typically renage from £2995, to £13,317 per year depending on the park and your specific pitch. At most parks, fees range from £3,490 to £5,390 annually.

What do your pitch fees actually cover?

1. Securing your pitch for the year
2. Park maintenance and landscaping
3. Access to on-site facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds
4. Security systems and park lighting
5. Road and drainage maintenance
6. Refuse collection
7. Owner passes for park facilities
8. Exclusive owners events and entertainment
9. Utility connections and maintenance

As one holiday park explains: 'The annual site fee goes towards a number of elements that you'll benefit from and enjoy as an owner on park'

How are pitch fees calculated?

1. Flat fee structure: - Some parks charge the same fee for all pitches regardless of size or location.
2. Variable fee structure: - Others base fees on pitch size, location, and amenities. Its worth noting that prich fees typically increase annually. In England and Wales, there's a presumption that pitche fees will increase only by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), through other factors may be considered.

What Factors affect your pitch fee costs?

Not all pitch fees are created equal!

Several key factors determine what you'll pay:

• Location matters
• Parks in popular tourist destinations or high-demand areas typically charge more. A seaside pitch in Cornwall will cost more than one in a less visited area
• Pitch size and position
• Larger pitches or those with premium views often command higher fees. Corner plots or those with extra garden space usually cost more
• Park facilities and amenities
• Parks with extensive facilities like indoor pools, entertainment venues, and sports facilities generally have higher pitch fees to maintain these amenities
• Park quality and rating
• Higher-rated parks with better landscaping and maintenance standards typically charge more for their enhanced environment

Additional costs beyond pitch fees

Your pitch fee isn't the only ongoing cost to consider:

1. Utility bills: Most parks charge separately for electricity, gas and water usage
2. Insurance: You'll need comprehensive insurance for your holiday home
3. Council tax or rates: Depending on the parks classification , you may need to pay local council charges
4. Winterisation: Preparing your holiday home for winter months may incur additional costs.
5. Maintenance and repairs: Keeping your holiday home in good condition requires ongoing investment

How to manage your pitch fee costs

Want to keep costs down? Try these practical approaches:

Consider subletting

Many parks offer subletting schemes where they will rent out your holiday home when you are not using it. This can offfset your annual costs significantly.

'Over 1,000 owners choose to let the holiday home with us each year, using this income to help pay towards their running costs and pitch fees', notes Away Resorts

Choose a smaller pitch

If you're buying new, consider a smaller pitch . You'll still enjoy all of the park amenities but with lower annual fees

Look at different parks

Parks in less tourist heavy areas ofter offer better value with lower pitch fees whilst still providing excellent facilities

Understanding payment options

Most parks bill annually but may offer some payment plans. Understanding your options can help with budgeting

Questions to ask before committing

Before signing any agreement, ask these crucial questions:

1. Whats included in the pitch fee and what is charged separately?
2. How have pitch fees increased over the past five years?
3. Are there any planned improvements that might affect future fees?
4. What's the parks policy on subletting
5. Are there any restrictions on when you can access your holiday home?

The bottom line........

Pitch fees are an unavoidable part of holiday home ownership. They ensure that your park remains well-maintained and enjoyable for everyone. By understanding what you're paying for and factoring these costs into your budget from the start, you'll avoid unwelcome surprises and can focus on enjoying your holiday home for years to come.

Remember: The true cost of holiday home ownership goes beyond the initial purchase. Factor in pitch fees and other running costs when deciding if a holiday home is right for you.