If you are comparing traditionally-built homes and manufactured home communities, you have likely come across two very different ownership models. While traditional site ownership has been common, many homebuyers today are discovering the affordability of site-fee communities. For many buyers, the biggest challenge is not finding the right home; it is finding a path to home ownership that fits their budget, long-term goals, and overall lifestyle. Understanding the difference between site ownership and site fees is one of the most important parts of the decision-making process. This blog breaks down both options so you can make the best decision.
Site Ownership
With site ownership, you purchase both the home and the land that it sits on. This traditional model offers long-term investment potential, but also comes along with a few added responsibilities.
Pros
- Equity building in the home and land beneath it
- No monthly site fee payments
- Flexibility and control over how property improvements (subject to local zoning laws)
- Full ownership of the land
Cons
- Higher upfront purchase price
- Full responsibility for land and property maintenance
- Expensive land preparation and utility setup can add significant costs before move-in
- Property taxes generally apply to both the home and the land
Site Fee Living
With site fee living, you own your home while paying a monthly site fee to lease the land it sits on. This option has become increasingly popular because it offers many benefits without the larger financial commitment. This can make homeownership more accessible and affordable for many buyers.
Pros
- Lower upfront purchase costs since no land purchase is required
- Smaller loan amounts and potentially lower mortgage payments
- Ability to build equity through home ownership
- Community amenities may be included in your site fee
- Reduced land preparation and maintenance needed
Cons
- Recurring monthly site fee payments
- Community rules and guidelines can apply
- Site fees can increase over time
- Limited control over land use
What New Durham Estates Offers
At New Durham Estates, we are a land-leased manufactured home community; you own your home and lease the land it sits on. At New Durham Estates, residents enjoy:
- Affordable homeownership options in a neighborhood community
- No property taxes on land
- Ability to build equity in your home
- No costly land preparation
- Community office complex
- Park maintenance, such as snow plowing and road maintenance
- Trash and recycling services
- Community amenities include a fitness center, stocked pond, and trail connections to Bluhm County Park.
- A location that puts you at the heart of it all, near shopping, dining, schools, and everyday essentials
What if you could enjoy all the benefits of homeownership without the added complexity of owning land? That is exactly what site fee living offers. At New Durham Estates, our site fee living makes it easier than ever to step into a home you love and a community you’ll be proud to be part of, all without the extra financial commitment or upfront costs that come with site ownership.
Ready to find your home? Visit New Durham Estates to explore available homes, tour the community, and learn more about site fee living.
