You may have noticed in your local area some parks with several temporary looking houses. Some may be built on a firm base of concrete blocks or simply propped up on blocks and stones. These are actually called mobile homes. Given the name for them, they don't actually move very often, in practice. In certain circumstances they can be relocated.

Mobile homes offer a much more affordable type of residential accommodation. They are a realistic alternative for those who cannot afford a house. There is generally less maintenance than there is with a house. Plus, mobile homes can be just as comfortable if basic. These days, mobile homes are very popular with the elderly as retirement homes.

It is possible to have your own mobile home constructed on your own plot of land, though planning permission can be difficult to obtain. Mobile homes are usually not very attractive looking things and most people would not like the sight of mobile homes appearing everywhere. Planning permission is only granted under very special circumstances. If you are thinking of constructing your own mobile home on your own plot of land, contact your local authority first.

Often is the case that mobile homes are found in mobile home parks. Mobile home parks are generally setup to meet a specific need be it a holiday park or a mobile home park for the elderly. Parks vary greatly in quality and services offered. Some have very basic facilities and are in a bad state of maintenance while others are really very attractive places. Usually there a small rent to pay for the plot where the mobile home is located. Of course, parks that have good facilities and are maintained to a high standard can expect to charge a higher rent. Occasionally site owners can go out of business, forcing residents to re-locate their homes.

New mobile homes can cost between £25,000 to £80,000 and it is possible to get second hand ones for as little as £5,000. It is difficult but not impossible to obtain finance. Lenders generally regard mobile homes as a bad credit risk. Borrowers need to have a good credit reputation and the quality of the park is also taken into account.

By their very nature, mobile homes do not typically last as long as a house. Their life is about 20 - 30 years. If mobile homes appeal to you, then you can look forward to a very cheap and comfortable home for quite a few years.