Table of Contents
Why Should I Consider a Resort Cottage?
Think of a Resort Cottage, also known as a ‘Park Model,’ as a cool, modern cottage but on wheels. Built on a standard trailer base, they usually measure between 400 to 700 square feet and most come with their own outdoor decks with additional space added with a 3 season room. But hey, these cottages aren’t made for all-year living. They’re more your spring to fall kind of retreat, perfect from around May to October.
You’ll usually find them in fun places like resorts, campgrounds, or trailer parks. It’s a fantastic way to be part of a community with folks who share your love for this kind of lifestyle.
Now here’s the best part: these Resort Cottages are all about keeping things easy and carefree. Unlike a traditional cottage, they are designed to be super low-maintenance. That means, no more stressing over tree pruning, dock repairs, or fixing the roof when you own one in a resort. Resort Cottages are all about giving you the chance to kick back, relax, and simply enjoy the good life!
What Costs Should I Consider?
Understanding the total cost of ownership is your first stepping stone to truly embracing this unique lifestyle. Each resort, campground, or trailer park will present a different financial breakdown, so you’ll want to ensure you fully comprehend these nuances. We highly recommend downloading our guide as it outlines key questions you’ll need to ask in your journey of understanding.
Contrary to traditional cottages which often appreciate in value, resort cottages or park models tend to follow the depreciation pattern similar to RVs, boats, or motorhomes. Remember, you aren’t simply investing in a piece of property, but in a way of life. This investment carries with it a promise of joy, leisure, and endless memories, and that is truly priceless.
Resort Cottage Cost
The cost of a resort cottage can vary greatly, influenced by factors such as its age, size, whether it’s new or used, and sometimes even the resort it’s located in. Our website serves as an excellent launching pad, offering a comprehensive understanding of what each unit provides, allowing you to compare and establish your ideal starting point.
Site Fees
The second significant expense is the Site Fees. These are the charges you pay to fully immerse in the resort experience, including the cost of the specific site your cottage is located on. These fees can differ vastly, depending on the amenities and services included by the resort, as well as the length of the season. It’s crucial to be aware of what’s not included and might incur extra charges. Our guide provides a handy checklist to help you navigate this aspect.
Remember, you’re not just investing in a property – you’re investing in a lifestyle filled with relaxation and priceless memories. Take the time to understand these costs and what they provide, and you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision.
Additional Expenses
As you embrace this unique lifestyle, it’s essential to take into account all associated costs to ensure they fit comfortably within your budget. The amount you’re prepared to spend could significantly influence the size, location, or age of the cottage you choose to buy.
Insurance – Each resort has its own insurance prerequisites. Therefore, it’s crucial to ascertain whether your current insurance provider can extend coverage to this type of unit. If they do, bundling it with your existing home insurance could be a cost-effective approach. However, if that’s not an option, companies like AVIVA and MARY MARTIN REID specialize in insuring park models, although costs might be higher unless you already hold policies with them.
Utilities – Utility costs can fluctuate from one resort to another. While some resorts may include utilities in the Site Fees, others might bill you separately for water and electricity. In such cases, it’s beneficial to inquire about the expected costs over a season. Do note, even if utilities are included, there may be certain usage restrictions in place, such as limitations on additional appliances or vehicle washing.
Remember, when you invest in a resort cottage, you’re stepping into a lifestyle filled with relaxation and unforgettable memories. Being aware of these additional costs and understanding what they cover is an important part of making a well-informed decision.
Selecting Your Perfect Cottage Resort
Choosing the ideal cottage resort for you and your family is a significant decision that requires thoughtful deliberation. Your selection will set the stage for countless treasured memories, so it’s vital to consider a number of crucial factors before making your final decision.
Location: Ontario boasts a diverse range of landscapes, each with its unique allure. The key challenge may lie in balancing your dream location with the practicality of travel distance. If regular weekend getaways are part of your plan, a nearby resort might be a more convenient choice, considering factors like traffic congestion and fuel costs. Identify your optimum travel radius and use that as a guideline in your search.
Resort Size: Large resorts may captivate you with extensive amenities like extra swimming pools, splash pads, sports courts, and fitness centers. However, they might also come with increased bustling activity and potentially higher site fees. It’s worth exploring both corporation-owned and privately-owned resorts, as each carries their own set of benefits and downsides. Understanding these nuances will enable you to make an informed choice that best aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
To make an informed decision, always ask for a copy of the “License of Occupancy”, which is generally valid for one year. Additionally, request a copy of the resort’s policies. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations and comprehend your potential responsibilities. Most importantly, arrange a visit to the resort for a comprehensive tour. Only once you’ve scrutinized every detail and asked all necessary questions should you allow your heart to make the final call.
Consider seeking insights from current resort owners about their favorite and least favorite aspects of the resort. Remember, the pursuit of a perfect resort—one where every guest is entirely satisfied—may be futile. Instead, strive for a balanced choice that checks most, if not all, of your boxes.
Finally, remember the golden rule in this journey—do your homework. Through meticulous research and planning, you’re bound to find a cottage resort that will serve as a perfect home-away-from-home for you and your loved ones.
How To Narrow Down The Cottage Selection
Indeed, the resort selection can be an exhilarating and monumental step towards realizing your dream getaway. Assuming that you’ve indeed landed on the right resort, you’re on the brink of an unforgettable experience. The next key decision, however, is choosing the perfect Resort Cottage that aligns with your tastes and preferences.
Now, you may ask, “How do I decide which cottage to go for amidst the myriad options?” Don’t worry! We’ve got some advice that will streamline this decision-making process for you. To make an informed decision that best suits your needs, we suggest drafting a comprehensive list, divided into two distinct sections: ‘Must-Haves’ and ‘Nice-to-Haves’.
Your ‘Must-Haves’ are the essential elements that you cannot compromise on for your ideal stay. These could be specific features like sea-facing rooms, accessibility to amenities, or anything else that you deem absolutely necessary for your stay.
On the other hand, the ‘Nice-to-Haves’ category encompasses those additional perks that aren’t necessarily deal-breakers but would certainly enhance your stay if available. This could include aspects like an extra-large balcony, state-of-the-art entertainment system, or a gourmet room service menu.
By categorizing your preferences this way, you ensure a certain level of flexibility. If a compromise is required, you can make sure it’s on the ‘Nice-to-Haves’ rather than your non-negotiable ‘Must-Haves’. Perfection in every single aspect may be a rare achievement, but by prioritizing effectively, you can secure a cottage that fulfills your most important needs and perhaps even surprises you with a few delightful extras.