A park model is a big purchase, and most of the costly missteps are avoidable. Here are the ten we see most often.
- Treating a park model like an RV or mobile home. It is its own category, which changes both your financing and your permits.
- Applying at a local bank without educating the underwriter. Ask the underwriting department to review the specifications and floor plans first, so you are not denied right before closing.
- Skipping the permit conversation. Contact your local building authority early about utility-connection permits and approval timelines.
- Not confirming who owns the land. Deed ownership directly affects how much you can finance.
- Forgetting site-prep and delivery costs. Budget for the pad, utility connections, and setup — not just the home.
- Choosing a builder on price alone. Construction quality, materials, and reputation matter far more over the life of the home.
- Waiting to sort out financing. Get matched with your lender early so you shop with a clear budget.
- Confusing matched with approved. Being matched with a lender is not final approval — the lender may still require documents such as proof of income or property ownership, and a hard credit inquiry happens only when you finalize your loan.
- Overlooking insurance. Homeowners insurance is typically required on the park model.
- Not comparing loan terms. Rate, term length, down payment, and prepayment penalties all affect total cost — use the Payment Estimator to compare.
