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What is a Park Model?
A park model, or Recreational Park Trailer (RPT), is the most affordable and lavish vacation cottage in the country. Unlike permanent-build mobile homes, these stick-built RPTs are movable resort homes designated as vehicles. They are designed specifically for part-time, seasonal and recreational living.
RPTs are wider than conventional RVs and can be built up to 400 square feet. Dimensions are usually 12x30 (not including porches) with floor plans designed for a long-term occupant that include a private bedroom, large bathroom, kitchen with full size appliances, a living room, added ceiling height, and optional lofts.
Styles range from rustic cabin to craftsman cottage and can be customized to suit the owner’s style and needs. Bay windows, vinyl flooring or carpet, cathedral ceilings, tape and textured interiors, and covered porches lend to the upscale feel of the park model.
Timber Ridge has partnered with builder Skyline Homes to present these affordable “cottages” for about $35,000 to $45,000. Timber Ridge works with the clients on the order, purchase, and delivery of the RPT. The park model can be placed on a leased Timber Ridge site for $2,600 to $2,900 (may negotiate year round usage) per season (May 1 to October 31; electric billed separately) or arrange for delivery to another site.
Timber Ridge will also feature two park models, or “cottages”, for daily and weekly rental. Click here for more info.
To experience seasonal living in an affordable park model, e-mail Timber Ridge Resort’s Kristin Levesque or Gordon Waggoner or call them at (231) 947-2770.
More Park Model Q&A
Is it possible to order a larger park model? +/-
400 square feet is the maximum size by federal law. However, certain features can be utilized to maximize the usable space and livability.
Lofts: A mini second floor can be added as long as the ceiling-to-floor height is less than 60 inches and does not exceed 50 percent (200 square feet) of the main floor square footage. Perfect for children, overnight guests, or storage.
Porches: A porch with an extended roof overhang and railings may be screened in and have a second door but not enclosed with any wall structure. Six-to-eight foot lengths are typical.
Decks or patios: Typically allowed onsite after set-up depending on lot size and layout.
Are park model homes affordable? +/-
When compared to the purchase of a condominium, second home, or in some cases, even a new RV or motorhome, they are significantly less. In addition, because they are classified by the state Department of Motor Vehicles as titled recreational vehicles, park models are not taxed annually as personal property. This enables consumers to purchase a RPT and reside at Timber Ridge Resort for a fraction of what it would normally cost to purchase and own land in the Grand Traverse area.
Who should buy a park model home? +/-
Working professionals, families, outdoor sporting enthusiasts, “empty nesters”, retirees, and anyone looking for:
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seasonal residence in the Traverse City area
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a summer cottage
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a weekend retreat or vacation cottage
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an affordable place to be near family (especially grandchildren) for visits
What about codes and standards? +/-
The Recreational Park Trailer Industry Association (RPTIA) is a non-profit Trade Association whose members manufacture and service RPTs. Members pledge to comply with a nationally recognized safety standard developed under the certification of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The ANSI A119.5 Standard for RPTs mandates over 500 safety requirements covering plumbing, heating, electrical, fire and life safety as well as construction requirements.
Members agree to unannounced inspections of units being produced at the member’s facilities by an accredited third-party engineering firm. The third-party inspections occur at least four times per year on an intermittent schedule.
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