Thinking of buying a used RV? Consider a few things before doing so. First off, what kind of vehicle do you want? Travel trailers or class C pop up campers will sell for much less than class A or B luxury coaches. Second, consider what types of amenities you require, such as air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and how much sleeping space.
Your best bet for research is to start with the numerous online sites where you can browse and see the different mobile home classes on the market. Many times you can take 360 degree tours or video tours of different RVs. Also, you can even contact a local dealer to take a test drive or examine one first hand. Seeing your vehicle first hand before you buy it will help in the long run, as you can also inspect the warranty and maintenance records first hand. Don't overlook the inspection process, as little things like leaky pipes and hidden damage can add up to a lot of repair costs. When inspecting the motorhome, try to bring a mechanic or someone who can help you thoroughly inspect it before you buy. Knowing what specific questions to ask will be very valuable.
If you decide to go with an RV from a private party, then you must understand that the vehicle comes AS IS, without any warranty or guarantee. If the refrigerator or oven breaks a week after you buy it, you have to pay for it yourself. This is important to keep in mind, as many used RVs will be several years old. If you buy from an RV dealer, sometimes they offer extended service contracts. The vehicle's age will definitely determine the price of the service plan.
Used RVs are priced based on condition, age, and mileage. If you see a deal that is too good to be true, and these three elements look really good, ask some questions and find out why they are selling it for so cheap. It may be a case of a really good deal, or some strings attached. Once you settle on an actual vehicle to buy, you need to figure out your financing situation. Down payments and interest rates depend on what bank you get a loan from, but make sure that you are able to get ample financing without stretching yourself too thin. The last thing you want to happen is to default on your loan.
In summary, if you are looking to buy a used RV, know what it's worth before you spend. It's a big investment and you need to know what you're getting for your money. The best place to turn to initially is the RV blue book. Good luck and happy driving.
