Owning a static caravan remains popular in the UK, offering a flexible and cost-effective way to enjoy domestic breaks. The market is expected to reach around £4.7 billion in 2026, although growth has slowed due to wider economic pressures, rising living costs and periods of poor weather. (IBIS World)

Following a surge in holiday home purchases in recent years, many owners are now choosing to sell. In some cases, children have grown up, site fees have increased, or the caravan is simply being used less as travel habits change. As a result, larger operators are responding with more competitive pricing, including reduced caravan prices and discounted site fees, to stimulate demand.

In this increasingly competitive market, choosing the right agent is essential. Effective marketing can help your caravan stand out, reach a wider audience and secure a buyer more quickly, allowing you to move on with confidence.

Beyond ownership trends, the wider holiday parks and campsites sector continues to play a vital role in domestic tourism, generating billions in visitor spending each year and supporting local economies across the UK. Despite current challenges, UKCCA (UK Caravan and Camping Alliance)  data shows the sector remains resilient. The report highlights that caravan holidays offer good value for money, support health and wellbeing, and provide access to nature, while parks continue to invest in new facilities to enhance the overall holiday experience.

This is encouraging news if you’re planning to sell your second home and free up funds for new adventures. With strong demand for static caravans, there’s a real opportunity to showcase your caravan and attract potential buyers.

Read on to learn the ins and outs of selling your holiday home privately on-site. We’ll show you how to sell your caravan in 5 simple steps.

Read our private-sale customer reviews to see how we have helped many people move on, as well as many customers who are happy with their new static caravans.

How do I value my static caravan?

Valuing a static caravan involves several important considerations. Having a good understanding of nearby parks and comparable units is essential to determine the right market price. Caravan valuations are generally influenced by the following key factors:

The Licence Period:

It is usual for caravan parks to issue static caravans with a licence agreement which stipulates the length of time you can remain on the chosen pitch. Generally speaking, the longer you have left on your licence period, the higher the valuation. But everyone has different needs. Matching with the right buyer is essential. There are a few parks that don’t have a licence period at all, allowing higher resale prices.

The Park:

What makes a holiday park “the best” can vary from person to person. Consider factors such as friendliness and quality of customer service, the standard of facilities, and the range of on-site amenities, such as restaurants, pools, or activities for children. Local attractions, themed events, or a more luxurious, tranquil setting may also affect appeal. Taking all these aspects into account will help ensure an accurate valuation.

Make and Model:

Like cars, buyers want to know a caravan’s specifications and features, which can vary by manufacturer. Key considerations include central heating, double glazing, a feature fireplace, extra seating or pull-out beds, and storage space such as cupboards and wardrobes. The size of the bedroom and shower also matters. Understanding what buyers value will help you price your caravan competitively and achieve a quicker sale.

The Condition:

A well-maintained caravan not only looks more appealing but also commands a higher price. Buyers will check the state of curtains and voiles, the cleanliness and upkeep of appliances, and the condition of the shower. Extras included in the sale, such as decking or outdoor furniture, can also add significant value.

Ultimately, this is your final decision. It’s important you are happy with any recommended sale price so you feel you are getting the right value for your static caravan.

 

Should I use an estate agent to sell my static caravan?

Selling Through an Agent like Westcountry Resorts: The easiest way to sell your holiday home privately, without the stress, is to work with an estate agent. It’s crucial to choose one who specialises in static caravan sales and marketing. Without the right industry knowledge, experience, and credibility, attracting the right buyer can be challenging.

A specialist agent understands the relationships between the seller, park owner, and buyer, and can guide you through every step of the process. An expert will guide you through every step—agreeing on a price, handling paperwork, liaising with the park, listing and marketing your caravan, and negotiating offers—ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

 

 

Do I need to let the park owner know that I want to sell my static caravan?

Yes, it’s essential to let your park owner know about your intent to sell and that you are putting your static caravan on the market privately.  Depending on your agreement, the park may have a first refusal to purchase your static caravan.

 

What are the costs of selling a static caravan?

Before agreeing on a selling price, you’ll want to make sure you’ve accounted for all financial implications.  You may have asked yourself: “Do I pay VAT if I sell my static caravan?” “Do you pay capital gains tax on a static caravan?” “What fees will I have to pay the park?” and “What about outstanding finance?” Here’s an overview of typical costs associated with selling a static caravan:

Paying VAT on a static caravan: You will be required to pay VAT on the transfer fee. The amount will depend on the size and specification of the caravan. 

The industry standard is 15% of the selling price plus VAT; this is usually called the “transfer fee”. When you’re ready to sell, check your park’s terms and conditions, as this percentage may vary.

Here is an example of how this looks:

Caravan sales price: £10,000

Transfer fee: £1,500

VAT (on the transfer fee): £300

Total due to the caravan owner: £8,200

Capital gains tax on a static caravan: There is no capital gains tax to pay when selling your static caravan. A caravan is considered a wasting asset with a life expectancy of no more than 50 years. It’s likely to depreciate over time and have only a residual value at the end of its life.

Park fees: Each park has its own rules. Many offer a pro rata scheme, whereby you would pay for the months you have used in the current year and then receive a reimbursement for the fees left for the remainder of the year.

Outstanding finance: If you have outstanding finance against your static caravan, you will need to obtain a settlement figure from the finance company on the date of sale. Any outstanding finance amount must be cleared before ownership can be transferred.

Gas and electric safety tests: It is always advisable to provide your new purchaser with valid gas and electric safety tests for the caravan.  It should be done annually as a matter of course for your own safety. This will give your purchaser confidence that the caravan they are buying is of high quality.

 

What documents do you need to sell a caravan?

If you are looking to transfer caravan ownership, you will need copies of your licence agreement and park rules so you can discuss them with the new buyer. The licence agreement outlines the licence period, running costs, and other park information.  This varies from park to park.

When you sell your static caravan with Westcountry Resorts, we create a Listing Agreement. It includes:

• Your name and caravan details

• The listing price and licence period

• Park information

• Items included in the sale, such as decking, furniture, fixtures, fittings, and any additional items left in the unit

The agreement must be signed before listing the caravan. It serves as the working agreement between you, us, and the new buyer.

 

Sell your static caravan privately in 5 simple steps

It’s easy to sell your static caravan privately with Westcountry Resorts. We have been selling private-sale caravans for over 20 years and can help you move on quickly, easily, and cost-effectively. Just follow these simple steps for a sale without the fuss.

1) Talk to an expert:

Contact Westcountry Resorts here or call us on 01392 271 222

If you’re thinking of selling your static caravan, get in touch with us. Our approachable team is happy to discuss your situation and guide you through the next steps.

2) Packages Available:

Firstly, we will discuss your current situation. The sales process will be explained, and options will be discussed. Westcountry Resorts will provide a preliminary valuation and a timeline for listing.

 

3) Listing Agreement:

Once you have selected Westcountry Resorts to act on your behalf, one of our team members will run through the next steps. They will go through your desired sale price, any extras included, the licence period, park details, and associated costs. All of this will be recorded in the listing agreement, which acts as our formal working agreement.

 

4) Listing your caravan for sale:

Initially, Westcountry Resorts will arrange to take photographs and video of the caravan. We can do this at a time that suits you and works around any lettings. We will upload the images and videos to our website and write the specifications for your static caravan.

 

5) Conducting viewings:

Depending on the package you choose, Westcountry can either arrange and attend viewings on your behalf or provide you with the leads so you can schedule appointments at your convenience.

Selling your static caravan privately with Westcountry Resorts is as easy as that. 

For more information, download our Selling your static caravan privately frequently asked questions and answers sheet, or get the ball rolling right away by getting in touch here.