If you are looking to purchase or sell a used RV, you want to compare your rig to the NADA RV blue book to make sure that you are selling or buying at a reasonable price. RV blue books are based on percentage of Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. When you browse the guide, you want to look at other mobile homes of the same class, make, and model. With the wide range of options that you might have, compare the amenities and features to gauge your price as well. Age and overall condition are probably the top two determining factors of your RV's selling price. If it has been maintained on a regular basis and if everything works properly like appliances and electrics, you will have an easier time fetching a higher price. Other things to consider when pricing your RV are mileage and other features such as solar panels, satellite TV, air conditioner, and kitchen appliances. There are many things that add up to the final selling cost of a used RV, so do your homework before settling on a price.
The Nada blue book is a great starting point from which you can adjust your price, depending on the condition and by how spruced up it is. Simple things like adding curtains and modern appliances can add hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to your selling price.
Typically, online valuations for RVs are much higher than what a dealer will pay for it. If you go to the Nada Guide website, the RV section has listings of RV manufacturers, where you can click their "Get Price" button. After valuing your RV, you will likely have to deduct another 10% from that price if you plan on selling it to a dealer. This is because they will pay you the wholesale price.
Keep in mind that these are guidelines, as there are so many variables into properly valuing a vehicle, let alone something as complex as a motor home. The RV blue book guidelines use the basic items into consideration, such as make, model, year, and mileage. A private party buyer will likely only buy vehicles if the RV is in top notch condition. Any of the following flaws will lower the asking price of any RV: rust, dings, or dents in the body, something not working, broken appliances, and excessive wear and tear.
Your two best sources for starting the appraisal process are the Kelly Blue Book for RVs (this comes in both online and hard copy versions, updated at least several times per year), and the NADA RV Appraisal guide. The NADA guide includes suggested retail and wholesale prices, and is updated three times per year. Both of these are great starting points for when you are looking to appraise your RV.
