Rethink vacation home: Perks for half the price tag

Looking for a vacation getaway to call your own? You aren’t the only one. Research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) finds that sales of vacation homes increased by 57 percent in 2014, the largest increase since the group began tracking the data in 2003.

Houstonians know that there’s no better way to beat the heat and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city than with a waterfront vacation. With dozens of lakes and the shores of Galveston all within a two-hour drive, Houston residents looking to invest in a vacation home have an extensive number of options. But, today’s vacation home buyers are looking for more than just a perch by the lake. They want amenities, activities, a short drive from home — and an affordable price.

With today’s housing options, buying a vacation home may not be as difficult, or costly, as you think. By considering alternatives to the traditional vacation home — a

lifetime of dream vacations may be within reach.

Manufactured homes

Manufactured homes offer all the benefits of traditional homes, at a fraction of the price. Today’s manufactured vacation homes are found in prime locations and often in highly amenitized communities.

At The Reserve at Lake Conroe, on Thousand Trails Road in Willis, manufactured homeowners have access to community amenities including a beach, miniature golf course, athletic courts and a newly-upgraded pool. New two- and three-bedroom water-access vacation homes are situated on the southeast shores of Lake Conroe and offer lakefront views. While the median vacation home costs an average of $150,000 (NAR), homes at The Reserve start at $80,000.

Fractional ownership

Fractional ownerships provide vacationers with the opportunity to share ownership of a property with multiple parities. By increasing the number of parties responsible for the asset, the costs of owning this type of vacation home are greatly reduced. Unlike owning a property outright, this type of ownership often restricts the amount of time each owner is able to enjoy the home. Fractional ownerships are ideal for vacationers who enjoy private accommodations but would not use a traditional vacation home enough to offset the costs.

Unlike investing in a timeshare property, fractional ownership gives purchasers property equity and owners can benefit financially from property appreciation. Sites such as VacationOwnership.com have helpful resources for home buyers looking to understand fractionals and search for a home that fits their needs.

RV

Vacation home buyers concerned about being tied down to one location should consider another alternative — a rolling vacation home.

From basic features like kitchenettes, showers and television, to more extravagant designs with fireplaces, washer and dryer units and treadmills, today’s RV owners have the flexibility to create a dream vacation wherever they go.

Modern RV parks offer a home base for RV travelers, many with all the amenities of a resort. Colorado River RV Campground, located midway between Houston and San Antonio, offers hiking trails, popular fishing areas and a fitness center.

For today’s potential vacation homebuyer, a little thinking outside the box could be the pathway to owning a perfect spot for an affordable escape from the city.