How to Buy a Used RV
Tips for Finding and Buying a Previously Owned Recreational Vehicle
Jul 16, 2009
After attending all the RV shows in his area and drooling over the latest model of his dream recreational vehicle, the would-be owner comes back to reality and realizes a new RV is out of the realm of financial reality. But he still wants to buy an RV. Maybe he’s upgrading or changing type of camper or maybe his growing family needs more room, or, conversely, he doesn’t need as much space. Perhaps he is a novice, taking his first foray into the RV lifestyle. Whatever the reason, he is ready to buy a used RV.
Where to Find a Used RV
Used recreational vehicles can be found in many different places and the buyer should do his homework by checking out as many outlets as possible before he makes such a big purchase. In his article, "What to Look For When Buying a Used RV", William H. Smith suggests:
- Newspaper ads – many folks hoping to sell their RV will advertise in local newspapers.
- Consignment lots – Those buyers not wishing people to come to their homes to check out their RV often take it to a consignment lot where buyers can inspect the vehicle and negotiate a price.
- Be on the alert for RVs parked on lawns, in driveways, and other locations in residential neighborhoods sporting For Sale signs.
- Drive through campgrounds, eyes peeled for recreational vehicles for sale.
The internet is also a good outlet for finding used RVs. Check the internet for RV dealers and for sale by owner websites like National Multilist which claims to be the largest for sale by owner website for RVs among many other things. Criagslist and ebay both feature listings for used RVs.
Recreational Vehicle dealers often sell both new and used RVs. Limited warranties are often available and the buyer should look into that if he is considering purchasing his previously owned RV from a dealer.
Tips for Negotiating to Buy a Used RV
The potential owner has found the perfect used RV for him. He has contacted the seller and set up a meeting to inspect the camper for flaws. The seller, hoping to get his asking price or close to it may not be forthcoming in telling the buyer what is wrong with the RV. For his part, no matter how much he wants to drive away with this particular camper, it behooves the buyer to find out what is wrong with it. A used RV will always have imperfections. Asking to see the title before negotiations begin is also a must. Then,with notepad in hand he does a thorough inspection, writing down the things that will need to be fixed or replaced. He may make an offer right then but it is a better idea to take his list home and determine how much money it will cost to fix the RV’s defects. With that information in hand he is ready to make his offer.
The buyer may choose to make a low offer. The owner doesn’t accept. Is that the end of their negotiations? Probably not. The buyer waits a week or so and gives the owner a call to see if he has sold the vehicle. If not, the buyer makes a better offer – probably his final offer as he is willing to pay only so much for this particular RV. If the owner accepts, the buyer drives away happy. If the owner declines, the buyer walks away and continues his search for a previously owned RV, secure in the knowledge he will find the perfect one at a price he wants to pay.
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