When we (my mother and I) decided to have her older sister move in with us back in 2005, I looked at a lot of MHPs (my Aunt wanted to be close to her younger brother, and to feel safe and secured) in the Phoenix metro area. And LVMHP is not only the one of the nicest parks, but was the cheapest insofar as lot rent is concerned (though, not a lot of amenities; no problem for me).
Since May 2005, the park has had only 3 Park Managers (1st one retired in 2006; 2nd one just recently replaced when the new owners (2nd one) took over several months back). So, compared to other places, this place has a very low turnover, in both management and tenants. And, its a fantastic location (provided you don't mind being close to Luke AFB, where not only do you hear the jets (in my book, that's the sound of freedom), one hears the bugle calls. 8-) as one has small town living, with big city access. And, today, I hardly ever have to go East of 91st Ave. Or, South of the I-10 Freeway.
Now, before moving in, the manager at that time, told me that they hadn't had a rate increase in 10 years. Pretty darn cool, right? Well, needless to say, he was a lying SoB! Just 4 months later, we (all residents) got a $10.00/month lots rent increase. And, except for 2008, it went up $10.00-$15.00/month every year. While it may not seem like much, multiply that by the number of years, and it adds up to a lot, quite quickly.
A bit saddened by this, as I could have owned my own lot 5 years ago. But, because of my Aunt's requirements, owning the lot was not meant to be.
But luckily, the pros outweigh the cons. Thus, the reasoning of a 5 Star rating.
The managers (husband & wife team) for most of my residency, took great care of the park. But, could be selective when it came to enforcing the rules equally. However, since I hardly had any issues with them, I didn't mind it.
The new owners have been very proactive in fixing up the clubhouse (unusable for 8 years, or so; soon to have a fitness room, too), swimming pool and the grounds.
They also have their own crew (roofers, painters, handyman, etc) that can save tenants some serious dollars. I got my double-wide exterior repainted for only $500.00! A fantastic price, as my regular handyman was $1k + paint & materials. Though, it may take time to get it done because they are quite busy.
While most residents are long term, there are a few rentals. But, over all, the park, and considering it's a family park, is fairly quiet (F16s and F35s not withstanding; and during Luke Days, the Thunderbirds fly overhead, about 200 feet off the deck).
Crime is almost nonexistent. Any serious crime is 0. Though, there has been some petty theft of tools (you leave it out, that's pushing temptation, and your fault imo), and holiday lawn ornaments :-( reported by 2 or 3 residents).
Overall, a very nice place to put your Manufactured Home (one note that ticks me off, the P.O. shows all resident addresses as Trlr (they don't know the definition of a Trailer. And, all double-widespread are 1,200 to 2,400 sqft. And, that ain't no trailer!). Luckily, your address label can be whatever you want it to be.
Of course, and remember this, any MHP is a land-lease deal. You will never own the lot.
So, if you want to own the land, be sure that you get into a community where you can. read more
