Mobile home in Lower Saxony – your dream home in the Lüneburg Heath

Campground as a Primary Residence: Finally, an Affordable Home

Are you looking for an affordable housing solution in a natural setting without the high costs of a traditional home?

A mobile home at a campground designated as a primary residence offers exactly that: permanent living in a natural setting at a fraction of the usual real estate prices. You purchase a winter-ready mobile home, lease a plot of land at a suitable campground, and register your primary residence there. Approval from the local municipality and the campground operator is essential.

In this guide, you’ll learn about all the legal requirements, specific costs, and the entire purchasing process. We’ll show you what to look for when choosing a campsite and how you can make your dream of a home close to nature a reality.

Why mobile homes used as a primary residence are the perfect housing solution

Living in a mobile home combines flexibility, a connection to nature, and financial freedom. More and more people in Germany are discovering this alternative to a traditional house.

The key benefits at a glance:

• Significantly lower purchase costs than a traditional home – New winter-ready mobile homes cost between €80,000 and €150,000, while comparable houses cost three times as much.
• Live year-round in a natural setting – modern construction featuring thermal insulation, triple-pane windows, and efficient heating systems ensures comfort in every season.
• No land costs—just a campground lease —Instead of expensive building land, you pay an annual lease of about €2,400 for a 300 m² plot.
• Legally valid registration of primary residence at eligible locations – With the approval of the local government and the facility operator, you will receive a valid mailing address.
• A flexible housing solution without a long-term commitment to real estate – even as your life changes, your mobile home remains portable.

Here's how to buy a mobile home as your primary residence

The process of purchasing your own mobile home as your primary residence consists of three clear steps. From finding a location to moving in, we’ll guide you through the entire process.

Step 1: Find a suitable campground

Not every location in Germany allows you to register a primary residence. Therefore, please check these key criteria in advance:

• Ensure you have a primary residence permit: Check directly with the campground operator and the relevant city authorities. Some municipalities have specific zoning plans that allow for permanent residency. Others categorically prohibit this in recreational and leisure areas.
• Evaluate year-round access and infrastructure: Your new home needs year-round access to restroom facilities, snow removal services, and reliable utilities. Look for modern amenities and professional management.
• Calculating lease and utility costs: Annual lease rates vary significantly by region. In the Lüneburg Heath, they are around €2,400 for 300 m². In addition, there are electricity, water, and waste disposal charges based on usage.

Step 2: Choose a mobile home and arrange financing

Once you’ve chosen a location, the next step is to pick the right shed. Size, quality, and winter-proofing are all important factors to consider.

• Choose the size and amenities that suit your needs: For long-term living, we recommend at least 40 m² of living space. A typical chalet includes a bedroom, a bathroom with a shower, a fully equipped kitchen, and a living area. Many models also feature a terrace.
• Ensure winter-proof construction for year-round use: Make sure the walls and roof have 12–13 cm of PUR foam insulation, triple-pane windows, and efficient heating systems. These features guarantee comfort even in sub-zero temperatures.
• Clarify financing options and the purchase agreement: Some banks offer specialized financing for mobile homes. Alternatively, consumer loans or installment plans through the dealer may be suitable. Have the purchase agreement reviewed by a lawyer.

Step 3: Registration and Moving In

Once you’ve secured a mobile home and a parking spot, the registration process begins. These steps will guide you to your new home:

• Register your primary residence with the local government: Once you have the campground operator’s approval and the local government has approved your application, you will receive your new registered address. Please bring your purchase agreement, lease agreement, and ID card.
• Setting up electricity, water, and internet service: The one-time setup fee is approximately €5,800. After that, you’ll pay monthly utility bills based on your usage.
• Arrange insurance and other formalities: A specialized mobile home insurance policy covers liability and property damage. Coverage limits exceeding €5 million are standard with reputable providers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Mobile Home at a Campground as a Primary Residence