Chertsey Park Home Owners Battle Punitive Ten Percent Sales Fee
The Hidden Cost of Riverside Living in Chertsey
Nestled on a scenic bend of the River Thames, right next to the tranquil Penton Hook Marina and the vibrant energy of Thorpe Park, Penton Park in Chertsey has long been a coveted haven for over-50s seeking a peaceful retirement. With its active residents' association representing more than 200 households and a bustling community clubhouse, it represents the quintessential Surrey lifestyle. However, a dark cloud hangs over this idyllic riverside enclave. Residents are speaking out against a decades-old, pre-1975 rule that forces them to surrender up to 10% of their home's sale value back to the site owner when they move. This commission, originally designed when these properties were classed as basic caravans, now applies to modern park homes that can fetch up to £500,000 on the open market. For elderly residents who moved here expecting a secure future, this archaic fee represents a devastating financial blow of tens of thousands of pounds just when they need their savings most.
Equity Lost After Investing in the Perfect Home
Alan Baldwin, who has lived at Penton Park for 15 years and champions the local residents' association, highlights how unjust the fee feels, especially given the rising cost of living and monthly pitch fees exceeding £200. Many retirees downsize to the park from busier Surrey hubs like Woking, looking to invest their hard-earned savings into personalising these properties. It is common for residents to invest thousands in modernising their homes, employing local bathroom fitters to carry out a complete bathroom refurbishment to adapt the space for mobility needs as they age. Sadly, when health declines or a spouse passes away—forcing a sudden move into care or closer to family—a tenth of that investment is instantly wiped out. Baldwin has witnessed multiple heartbreaking cases, including an elderly couple whose home had to be sold just a year after purchase due to a bereavement, resulting in an immediate and massive loss of equity that could have supported the surviving partner's care.
The Fight for Fairness and Next Steps for Residents
The campaign for reform is gaining momentum locally and nationally. The Park Home Owners Justice Campaign, which has been fighting this policy since 2009, has rallied Penton Park residents for protests at Westminster. Local political figures have also taken note, with Runnymede and Weybridge MP Dr Ben Spencer calling for a ‘fair deal' that protects vulnerable homeowners from being exploited by outdated legislation. A crucial government consultation reviewing this 10% commission is drawing to a close, giving local residents a vital window to make their voices heard. For the wider Chertsey and Surrey community, this issue underscores the importance of consumer protection for older citizens. Residents are urged to contact their local representatives and support the ongoing campaign. As the government decides its next steps, the residents of Penton Park remain hopeful that future buyers will finally be able to enjoy their golden years without the threat of losing their life savings.
Source: ‘Fairness' plea as Chertsey park home owners lose thousands
