You will agree that purchasing a used RV, which is in good condition, will save you money. As per the online information, after taking depreciation, financing, maintenance and other costs into account, the cost of an RV that is three years old can be nearly half the price of a new one.
Here are a few tips that help you find a pre-owned RV that is just right for you.
Do research
Ø Check websites and online forums where RV buffs chitchat, exchange views, offer advice/ tips for purchasing used RVs.
Ø Prevost motorhomes for sale by owner will be of immense help to you in this regard.
Be sure what you need
Ø Depending on your circumstances and your intended use of RV, a few used RVs are more worth than their cost.
Search for right RA
Ø Browse websites to search countrywide listings of used RVs with details of make, model, price and other criterion.
Arrive at a fair value
Ø After you have decided about the recreational vehicles meeting your requirement, NADA Guides for RVs enable you to get an approximate fair market value of the vehicle.
Verify RV's history
Ø For a fee, you can obtain a vehicle’s history report that includes details like whether the vehicle was damaged, remodeled or stolen, maker’s specifications and recall notices.
More details
Ø Check with the owner or dealer and find out about vehicle’s condition, history, title, warranties, previous repair and maintenance, and reasons for selling.
Ø Ask for test-driving the vehicle.
Common problems
Ø If you are of the opinion that an RV with low mileage is a better choice, then you are wrong.
Ø As, very low mileage points to an issue-prone vehicle or one, which is difficult to drive.
Ø RAs idling for long require costly overhaul.
Where the vehicle comes from?
North, South, East, or West
Ø None of the above origin is attractive (high heat & massive sun -vs- freezing cold, snow & moisture). However, you can opt for a southern vehicle.
Offer a price
Ø Equipped with information on fair market values, you can make an offer of price that is less than the prevailing price.
Ø Also, offering down payment will help you get the best price.
Ø As regards RV financing it is very difficult to get if the RV is older than five years.
Also
Ø Are the colors shiny and taut?
Ø Are the interiors unsoiled?
Ø Is the padding soft and supple?
Ø Is the color of the frame still black? As it was given in the factory?
Ø Has a compression test been done to the engine?
Ø Verify whether all appliances are functioning well.
Ø Connect a water hose, and check the water pressure system.
Ø Lastly, make certain that the price tag is compatible with the condition of the vehicle.
Similar to purchasing a home, the course of buying a RA can be a very long process. However, it is in your interest you need to do ground work before you buy a RV.