An RV park does not always consist entirely of RVs. Many properties have a section occupied by manufactured homes, older mobile homes, or park models. That can be a benefit to the property, but only if the owner understands that these units may operate under very different rules and economics.
Similar Sites, Different Products
From a physical standpoint, an RV site and a manufactured-home site can have many similarities. Both require appropriate utility connections, access, setbacks, drainage, and adequate lot dimensions.
But that does not mean you can automatically substitute one type of unit for another. RVs, park model RVs, and manufactured homes fall under different construction standards and may receive completely different treatment under local zoning and licensing rules.
Manufactured Homes Can Create Stable Revenue
Transient RV customers may stay for a night, a week, or a season. Manufactured-home residents tend to have much longer occupancy because relocating a home is expensive and complicated.
That can give an RV park a valuable base of recurring monthly income. In a seasonal market, having a portion of the property generating predictable year-round rent can help offset fluctuations in RV occupancy.
There is also demand from customers who want more living space and permanence than an RV provides. Depending on the market, that can make manufactured-home sites an attractive part of the property's overall mix.
Property Standards Matter
A mixed property has to look and operate like one coordinated community. Poorly maintained homes, storage clutter, neglected yards, or inconsistent improvements can hurt the appearance of the entire park.
Rules should clearly address items such as:
- Home and exterior condition
- Skirting and approved additions
- Yard and landscaping maintenance
- Outdoor storage and debris
- Parking and vehicle standards
The objective is not complicated: every section of the property should support the value of the whole property.
Check the Rules Before Changing the Mix
This is the most important issue.
Some jurisdictions permit manufactured homes within an RV park. Others restrict the number or location of those homes, allow only RVs or park models, impose limits on length of stay, or require a completely different zoning or licensing classification.
Do not assume that because several manufactured homes are already there you have the right to add more.
Before converting RV sites or bringing in additional homes, verify the zoning, conditional-use requirements, park license, utility requirements, fire regulations, setbacks, and other applicable rules with the appropriate local authorities.
Conclusion
Manufactured homes can work extremely well alongside RV sites and may provide an RV park with a dependable layer of long-term income. But the economics are only attractive when the property is well managed and the use is legally permitted. Understand the rules first, maintain consistent property standards, and then decide whether a mixed-use strategy improves the park.
