Park Model Homes and Tiny Homes: Understanding the Difference
Are you dreaming of a simpler life, a retreat from the complexities of modern living? Many feel overwhelmed by the traditional housing market. As inflation and interest rate uncertainties make buying and selling a home challenging, many opt to downsize into cheaper, simpler park model homes or tiny homes.
But wait, aren’t park model homes and tiny homes the same? They’re more different than you think.
At Lancaster Log Cabins, everyone deserves a peaceful and comfortable space to call home. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between park model homes and tiny homes so you can choose the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Let’s get started!
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Understanding the Differences Between Park Model Homes and Tiny Homes
Let’s start by making some basic comparisons of park model homes and tiny homes:
Park model homes are small, transportable homes designed for recreational use and are often found in RV parks or campgrounds. By definition, A park model home is a preassembled, portable cabin on wheels that is 400 square feet or less and technically classified as a Park Model RV (Oversized RV).
They are larger than most tiny homes but smaller than a mobile or modular home. The cabin is mounted on a movable trailer frame but is made to be parked somewhere long-term.
The set-up is similar to a mobile home, so there is no need for a permanent foundation other than a stone, concrete pad, or piers to block and level the unit off its wheels.
Tiny homes represent a deliberate departure from traditional single-family homes. Here, micro-living is embraced in harmony with a sustainable lifestyle.
It’s not uncommon to integrate solar panels into tiny homes to emphasize the focus on renewable energies and ensure independence from conventional energy sources.
They’re a broader category than park model homes. Sizewise, it’s still a small home under 400 square feet, but they’re significantly smaller than park models, averaging 225 square feet. The idea isn’t new, but it’s become more popular lately. These homes prioritize functionality and efficiency within a significantly smaller footprint and often include bedrooms built on a lofted level.
A quick and easy way to distinguish between the two is by looking at them—tiny homes resemble miniature houses, with different styles, though they often use contemporary designs. In contrast, the majority of park model homes resemble log cabins.
The most significant difference between the two, however, is their use classification. Park model homes are very much RVs intended to be used seasonally or recreationally, like a little retreat, while tiny homes are meant to be primary residences. A park model home can be classified as a tiny home, but a tiny home cannot be classified as a park model home, especially if the tiny home doesn’t have wheels.
Key Differences: Size, Mobility, and Foundation
Park model homes typically range from 250 to 400 square feet. Usually, they are larger than most tiny homes but smaller than a mobile or modular home. The cabin is mounted on a movable trailer frame but is meant to be parked somewhere long-term.
Due to the size and weight of park model homes (often exceeding 10,000 lbs and wider than 102"), transporting them requires specialized equipment and expertise, making it best left to professionals.
Since park model homes tend to be heavier, placing the cabin on a stone or concrete pad or piers to block and level the unit off the wheels will lead to a more stable foundation to live on.
Tiny homes are typically smaller, sometimes under 200 square feet. Similar to park model homes, tiny homes known as “tiny homes on wheels” can be built on trailer bases and, due to their smaller size and weight, can be towed with a heavy-duty pickup truck (though it’s still advisable to hire a professional to move it for you). However, many tiny homes are built on traditional fixed foundations.
While tiny homes are theoretically lighter and more befitting of a nomadic lifestyle, it’s still a safer and more practical bet to park it on a concrete or stone pad when possible. For those seeking to place their tiny home in a permanent location, look for specialized tiny home communities that have foundation pads for a more permanent location.
Both options are typically mobile, but park model homes often require more specialized transport due to their mass, size, and construction.
Zoning Laws and Placement Regulations
Zoning laws are crucial considerations. Park model homes are typically subject to campground regulations and zoning laws related to recreational vehicles. On the other hand, tiny homes can face a more varied and often stricter regulatory environment, with many municipalities lacking specific guidelines for their placement, so some research may be needed to ensure the home meets local requirements.
Because tiny homes and park model homes are technically RVs, some owners base their homes at a campsite. However, specific rules tied to individual states must be adhered to, as outlined in the camping regulations.
When it comes to rules on where you can live, careful research is essential for both options to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations—your home should be a source of rest, not stress!
Financing a Park Model Home vs. a Tiny Home
Because a park model home is classified as an RV, financing can be as simple as qualifying for an RV loan.
For tiny homes, it depends on a question: does it have wheels?
If it has wheels and is deemed roadworthy by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and compliant with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations, then it, too, qualifies for an RV loan.
However, some tiny homes are meant to sit on a permanent foundation and do not qualify as such, and because the purchase price for tiny houses is significantly less than a single-family home, traditional home loans may not always be the best option. Instead, alternative financing such as personal or home equity loans, or even credit cards, can be used to purchase tiny homes.
Some tiny home builders recognise this difference and offer financing as part of their overall package. A tiny home on wheels could qualify for an RV loan. Still, it must be deemed roadworthy by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and compliant with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations.
Costs and Maintenance
The initial cost of a park model home can vary significantly based on size, materials, and features. Expect a broader price range than tiny homes, often reflecting higher-quality materials and construction techniques. For example, park model homes from Lancaster Log Cabins are made of kiln-dried pine timbers for a solid and quality feel to the structure and excellent insulating properties.
Similarly, a tiny home's upfront cost depends on size, features, and construction. Labor costs, materials, and customization significantly influence the overall price due to tiny homes' customizable and modular nature. While a tiny home may seem lower than a traditional house, it can still be comparatively expensive. Assuming a tiny home size ranging from 100 to 400 square feet, with prices ranging from $140 to $450 per square foot. Total prices range from $30,000 to $70,000 and above, depending on features.
Maintenance costs are also a key factor. Park model homes, especially those made of real wood like Lancaster Log Cabins’ offerings, may require regular upkeep to protect the wood and prevent damage from weather, including sealing, cleaning, and periodic repairs.
While generally low-maintenance, tiny homes may still require repairs and upkeep, depending on their construction and materials. Utilities are another consideration. Both tiny homes and park model homes will incur costs for water, electricity, and potentially other utilities, varying depending on location and usage.
One final cost consideration for your park model home or tiny home—is it on wheels? If so, you’re off the hook on property taxes: your home is classified as an RV.
You’ll still pay taxes, but not as much or as structured as a conventional home. However, if your tiny home sits on a permanent foundation, you’ll be subject to property taxes, though significantly less due to size. What and how you’ll pay vary from state to state, however, so know your taxes.
Which Option Matches Your Lifestyle?
The tiny home movement was born out of a movement to live more simply, with fewer possessions and a desire to take up less space in an increasingly crowded world. Park model homes were meant to be a home away from home for recreational or short-term stays, with the intention of returning to a larger, primary home at some point. Still, if you want to live the minimalist lifestyle and like the size, look, and durability of a park model, there’s nothing to stop you from using it as a tiny home!
Whether you intend to continue living in your current median-sized American home of 2,200 square feet or are ready to embrace minimalism, you could always do with less clutter and stuff. To learn more about the principles of downsizing and simplifying your life, we encourage you to read our post on “The Joy of Less: Downsizing Tips for a Simplified Life.”
Conclusion
Deciding to go small is a big move. By living in a smaller space, you’re saying “no” to taking up more space and clutter in the world and learning to live within a more responsible and sustainable space.
Even if you stay in a tiny space temporarily, there are lessons to be learned in living with less, and it’s not a bad idea to put that into practice in a larger, conventional home.
At Lancaster Log Cabins, our portable, turnkey log cabins are handmade with quality materials and renowned Amish craftsmanship to create a space for experiences and memories for years. Consider looking at our cabins, whether you’re looking for a seasonal space or a place to call home.
Contact us today, or browse our log cabins for sale for your dream cabin home experience!