New or Used Static Caravan? A Practical Guide to Choosing Well

You want a holiday home on the North Wales coast, but you're stuck on the first big decision: new or used?

This guide walks you through the pros, cons, and costs of buying a new vs used static caravan in plain English.

Key Facts: New vs Used at a Glance

If you only read one section, make it this one.

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1. The Decision Every Buyer Faces

You've found the park. You've pictured the beach walks and the castle views at sunrise.

Now there's one question left.

New or used?

It sounds simple. But it's the decision that trips up more first-time buyers than any other.

Go new and you get warranties, modern insulation, and maximum years on the park. Go used and you're in sooner, for less money, with cash left over to explore Snowdonia.

Both options work. The right answer depends on how you'll use it — and how long you plan to stay.

Here at Min Y Don Holiday Home Park, beneath the walls of Harlech Castle, we've helped hundreds of buyers make this decision.

This guide gives you the practical, "manager's eye view" — the pros, the cons, and the questions most people forget to ask.

2. Which Option Suits You?

When a New Caravan Makes Sense

A new static caravan or lodge usually suits you if:

• You plan to use it regularly (our 10-month season allows for this).
• You expect to own it for 10+ years.
• You prioritise energy efficiency and warmth in winter.
• You want full warranty cover and minimal maintenance.

When a Used Caravan Can Be the Better Fit

A used static caravan often suits you if:

• You want to test the lifestyle before committing a large sum.
• You prefer a lower upfront cost.
• You're happy with a solid, comfortable interior that isn't brand new.
• You want to move in next week, not next month.

3. Questions to Ask Yourself First

Before you fall in love with a specific layout, ask yourself:

• Frequency: Every weekend for beach walks and golf? Or just occasional family holidays?
• Budget: Have you calculated the site fees (from £5,612.50) alongside the purchase price?
• Timeline: Is this a "forever home" or a 5-year plan?

The Case for Buying New

4. Modern Features and Energy Efficiency

New models are built for modern living.

You get open-plan lounges, integrated dishwashers, and often en-suite bathrooms.

Crucially, many new units are built to BS3632 Residential Specification. This means:

• Thicker wall insulation (important for North Wales coastal winters).
• Superior double glazing to keep the heat in.
• Lower heating bills during our November and December season.

5. Manufacturer Warranties

With a new unit, you have peace of mind.

You benefit from manufacturer warranties on the chassis and structure, plus guarantees on the boiler and appliances.

This means fewer unexpected bills and more time enjoying the beach.

6. Maximum Years on the Park

Buying new resets the clock.

You start at Year 1, giving you the maximum possible time on your pitch before you ever need to think about upgrading or moving.

The Case for Buying Used

7. Lower Upfront Costs

Used caravans allow you to enter the market with a smaller investment.

You might be able to afford a larger unit with sea views for the same price as a smaller, new model on a standard pitch.

8. Ready to Move In

A used static at Min Y Don is usually already sited, connected, and safety-checked.

Once the paperwork is signed, you can often get the keys within weeks. No waiting for factory build slots.

9. Value for Money

Like cars, caravans depreciate. A used unit has already absorbed that initial drop.

This means if you decide to sell in a few years, the difference between what you paid and what you sell for is often smaller in cash terms.

10. The Key Question: Remaining Years on Park

When viewing a used static, always ask the Park Manager:

• How old is this unit?
• How many years are left on the pitch licence?
• What happens at the end of the term?

At Min Y Don, we're transparent about this. We want you to know exactly what you're buying.

11. Understanding the Real Costs

Upfront vs Lifetime Costs

New: Higher upfront, lower maintenance, longer lifespan on the park.

Used: Lower upfront, potentially higher maintenance, shorter remaining term.

Resale and Exit Planning

At Min Y Don, we believe in clarity at the exit, not just the entry.

Always ask about our resale procedure. Knowing these answers now makes planning easier later.

12. Lifestyle: The "Coastal Escape" Factor

In 2026, connectivity matters — even when you're relaxing.

Remote Work: If you plan to work from the caravan on Fridays so you can walk the beach on Saturdays, a New model often has better dedicated workspace and modern wiring.

Signal Check: When viewing Used models (especially older ones with aluminium skins), check your phone signal inside the unit. We recommend testing it in the lounge and bedrooms.

13. What to Look For When Viewing

For New Models

• ☐ Build quality: Do the doors and cupboards feel solid?
• ☐ Inclusions: Is siting and connection included in the price?
• ☐ Views: Does the layout maximise the coastal or mountain views?

For Used Models

• ☐ Damp check: Look for stains around windows and corners.
• ☐ Chassis: Check for visible rust (a little surface rust is normal, heavy corrosion is not).
• ☐ Boiler: Ask to see the service history.
• ☐ Smell: Does it smell fresh, or musty?

14. Making Your Decision

New suits you if: You want a 15-year view, residential-spec insulation, and minimal upkeep.

Used suits you if: You want a lower entry price, a trial run at ownership, or immediate move-in.

15. Common Questions Answered

Is buying used less safe than buying new?
Not at Min Y Don. We vet every unit on our park. Buying privately elsewhere carries more risk ("sold as seen"), but buying a used unit from a reputable park gives you consumer protection and a warranty.

Will I have to upgrade my caravan one day?
Most pitch licences have an end date. Always ask how many years are left on the agreement before you buy. When the term ends, you can usually upgrade to a new model or move the caravan off-site.

Can I bring a used caravan I bought elsewhere onto Min Y Don?
No. Like most quality parks, we do not accept "bring-ons". We only sell units that are already on-site or new units ordered through us. This maintains the high standard of the park.

16. Your Next Step

There's no wrong answer here. Just the answer that fits your budget and your plans.

New gives you the long view — warranties, efficiency, and maximum years ahead.

Used gets you in sooner, for less money, letting you test the waters.

Either way, you'll be waking up to the same peace. The same castle views. The same sound of the sea in the distance.

Come and see us at Min Y Don. Walk through both options. Ask the awkward questions.

We'll give you clear answers.

Min Y Don at a Glance

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and reflects typical industry practice as of 2025/2026. While we aim for accuracy, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information provided, and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions. Costs, policies, licence terms, and facilities vary between parks and manufacturers and may change without notice. Any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk — always confirm details directly with the park manager before making any purchase decision. This content does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. If you need specific guidance, please consult a qualified professional.