Top tips for lodge living

Whilst the current economic climate may leave many of us feeling nervous, astute buyers recognise affordable yet luxurious properties as a great investment. Holiday lodges are an ideal second home alternative, representing real value in comparison to bricks and mortar. But with a huge choice on the market, buyers may be unsure where to start.

Phil & Frances Counsell, owner developers of Hilltop Lodges offer their top tips on how to make an advantageous choice:

• Look for luxury
Attention to detail, individual design and a contemporary interior are key in making lodge living successful. Fully furnished options finished to a high specification save on additional costs. Think particularly about selecting lodges with fully fitted workable kitchens offering stylish utilities alongside welcome extras such as a dishwasher. En suite bathrooms are also a practical indulgence, freeing up the main bathroom for when you have guests to stay.

• Choose an indoor-outdoor lifestyle
Lodges should offer the best of indoor-outdoor lifestyle, so consider the situation of each lodge to ensure optimal light, views and privacy. Check that any outdoor areas are included in the price as external areas such as decks or gardens may be extra. Well-designed glazing and French doors will bring the outdoors in, complementing landscape and making the most of local surroundings. Sites that are beautifully landscaped and well maintained with local stonework or paving features will continue to mature and develop, enhancing value in years to come.

• Consider the location
Having the luxury of being able to escape from it all at the drop of a hat is one of the major benefits of owning a UK holiday home. Easy access is vital if the benefits are to be enjoyed to the full. Look at access routes by road and by rail but more importantly, choose one of the fabulous areas of the UK that you will be happy to go back to time and time again. Research local shopping, eating and entertainment facilities, as well as all the amenities and services you may require whilst in residence. Remember you are buying a lifestyle as well as a property.

• Maintenance Free
The management and upkeep of the lodge and site should be included in the annual site fees. Check carefully what’s included such as gardening, lawns, staining of decks, external cleaning of lodges, even details such as sewerage systems and rubbish collection. If it’s included then you can enjoy peace and security in the knowledge that your property is being well cared for, even when you’re not there.

• It’s in the detail…
Lodges should be constructed to comply with British standards (BS3632). It’s also worth finding a site with metered gas and electric supply so as to avoid untimely power failings and the inconvenience of feeding coin meters or changing gas bottles in the middle of the night. Check for full insulation and additional luxuries such as under floor heating are also a pleasurable bonus. Check for designated parking.

• And finally
Lodge living offers a great investment on many levels. Most important, is the investment of leisure time, which adds quality to your life. Being able to escape from the pressures of modern life is priceless.

Further information can be found at hilltoplodges.com.