et2 wrote:
We are with 5 - 8 years of retirement and looking at all ways to fulltime economically as possible. So the thought of owning a lot at a rv resort might be a option. There is a resort locally in our state that we've stayed at a few times, and have considered it as a possibility.
However the more we've stayed there, the more we learn and see that not all owners are happy and there is a constant market of owners lots as well as developer unsold lots. Not to mention the animosity between different groups (clicks) of owners. New lots that aren't developed ( sheds, landscaping, etc) sell at $20,000 higher then a owner selling their developed lot.
One thing that I can see being a problem is the developer ( owner) who sells the new lots does everything they can to keep control of the resort and not give it completely to the board of actual owners. One reason, his lots unsold go for much more money. Games are played with renting owners lots in the rental pool ( favorites get preference). The owner makes you pay him condo fees if you rent on your own out of the rental pool, amongst other fees.
There is a constant cycle of owned lots for sale. Some are because owners pass and the families just want the money. Many I've heard because of the politics.
Another issue that bothers me is there is two fee's, and then taxes to pay on top of those.
1st fee - condo fees 1000.00 annually. Covers cable, wifi,trash pickup,lawn mowing & landscaping,lighting and fountains,liability insurance for common area, organized events
2nd fee - 616.00 annually. Covers pool & spa, use of sports facility,full kitchen facility, 3 clubhouses, private shower suites, nature trails, fitness center.
Then another approx $1000.00 in taxes on top of that. My issue is, are two separate charges the norm? If so it seems awful high to me for a cement slab for a place you can only use 5 - 6 months out of the year.
Is this the way all these resorts operate? Are they all clicky as far as lot owners go ( some of these lot owners hate each other here). This resort owner does everything he can to hold onto control and actually taunts those who isn't on his side.
The resort allows people to break the rules on amount of pets allowed and people on sites they lease out. Dogs are allowed to roam in others sites. There's an arrogance in the air by the management once you question anything.
Are these resorts all the same?
My first response to you would be not to even consider purchasing there. You have seen everything that is going on there. I'd for sure walk away from the situation. I think I have a good idea of what park your talking about.
A owner owned park in FL that we stayed at the past 5 years is a bit different. You own the lot outright and can rent it if you can't make it there. The renter deals directly with you. They have no contact with the Board of Directors. The only thing they have to abide by are the rules of the park. The monthly association fee is $65 which takes care of lawn care, trash pickup, maintenance of the pool and clubhouse and your water (both a well and city). City water is used for your consumption in the rv, the well is for washing vehicles and watering the lawn. You pay your property taxes and are responsible for the electric bill. Beautiful park overall. Sure there are a few clicks as you'll find some of the original owners seeming to get a few perks but I guess they know how to work the system.
Good luck and I hope you find something that works for you.
