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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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7 Tips On How to Determine Value of a Used Camper
Determining the value of a used camper can be challenging, with numerous variables to consider. From the camper’s age and condition to its make, model, and mileage, every aspect plays a crucial role in establishing its worth.
- Research Market Prices: Utilize online resources for pricing research.
- Evaluate the Condition: Assess both exterior and interior condition.
- Consider the Mileage: Mileage reflects usage and potential wear.
- Check for Upgrades: Upgrades can enhance the camper’s value.
- Inspect the Maintenance Records: Detailed records indicate proper care.
- Evaluate Its Age: Age impacts maintenance needs and features.
If you plan to buy a travel trailer, you’re probably torn between a new and an old camper.
I’ve been there.
See, my first travel trailer was a used, old bunkhouse camper. It was the perfect fit for my family. Unfortunately, five months later, it developed a leak in the back wall, which cost thousands of dollars to repair. I had to trade it in a painful loss.
Now, not to take away from my experience, but to add an anecdote from the other side: my brother-in-law bought a new 40′ trailer at a high price one year ago.
Unfortunately, it came with a roof leak defect from the factory, and last year, the toilet fell through the floor.
Based on the two scenarios above, I would say that quality is always a concern whether a camper is new or used. There are pros and cons to buying a used or new camper.
New Camper
A new camper may appeal to RVers looking for a rig that they can operate entirely independently and without anyone else’s funk.
If you also want a warranty to cover things and don’t mind being without your camper while they’re covered, go for new, but understand depreciation is high.
Of course, remember, everyone’s situation is different, but for me, spending more than $5k for a new rig isn’t worth the price.
And no, I’m not trying to throw shade at new rigs. After all, I’ve also had the experience of a new rig, and for the first year, I only had it in the dealership three times, and half of that was fixing minor issues. Other than that, it remained rock solid.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to The RV Dummy and Travel Channel
Used Camper
The big problem with RVers looking to buy used campers is they read a lot and watch lots of YouTube videos about what to look out for. And in most cases, their info-junkie asses get lost in a sea of bad things that could go wrong that lurk in the background of a used camper.
Of course, I understand the need for due diligence because there seem to be so many things that can go wrong with a used camper, and they are mostly hidden.
Find out who owns the camper and how. Ask for the title. Always talk with the owner, not the owner’s uncle, aunt, or son. If the person you are talking to can’t answer where the title is, then I suggest walking away.
Sometimes, there is a lean on the trailer, and the title may be held by the lean holder, bank, or lending company. You need to know this information to ensure the loan is paid off if you purchase the camper. You may be liable for the unpaid loan amount.
For me, a used camper is worth its weight in gold. I would never buy a new RV.
But does that mean used campers are worth it? Are there certain brands to steer clear of when buying used campers? What’s your opinion on buying a used camper from a dealership or a private seller?
The answer to all these questions is subjective and may depend on the user experience.
However, here are my two cents on the worth of used travel trailers:
Used Rigs are “Burnt In”
Generally, used campers are “burnt in,” all the issues for a new rig and poor construction are usually resolved.
With a used trailer, someone else will have already worked out the kinks. Plus, most campers usually don’t have many miles on them.
Of course, it’s usually a gamble that the guy selling it took care of all the unresolved issues, and they may even dress the rig up to look nice.
However, it’s better to gamble with a used trailer than spend $5k or more and still be uncertain whether things are ironed out. After all, new campers usually come with their share of defects.
I think everything else should be a minor repair if there are no signs of extensive water damage or axle/undercarriage damage.
Warranty Bait
Generally, all campers are built with less than preferred quality, and unless you’re paying a premium, you’ll have to deal with many cut corners and bad habits of mass-produced trailers.
So, unless you spend on a premium unit, your new RV will have little, stupid bugs to work out.
Poor quality RVs are caused by a lack of industry oversight and greed, which drives the cost to the bare minimum.
Keystone and Forest River are the only brands that are pretty much even on quality.
Now, fixing the bugs in your new RV means leaving your camper at the dealer for weeks during prime RVing season.
Sure, having someone fix your RV is nice, but what good is it if it sits on the dealer’s lot for weeks or months before it gets fixed?
I also do know that warranties, in general, are pure gravy for dealers and may not be worth it for the consumer.
But if you get a used trailer, someone else will probably have done all the shakedown fixes, and you can always take your camper to an independent mechanic.
Trailers aren’t complex machines, and most of the things you can learn to fix on your own are from YouTube.
Great Pricing
Used trailers are generally cheaper than new ones; you don’t have to overthink this. If you’re looking to save a couple of thousands, I’d recommend searching for your preferred camper model from a few years back.
The best part is that you don’t have to deal with a camper’s rapid depreciation, which means a better investment.
See, every camper loses value when you drive it off the lot. Many don’t understand that new campers continue losing value at a high clip for the first year, sometimes as much as 30%.
On the other hand, a used camper depreciates at a much slower rate after the first-year plateau, so it’s easy to argue that used campers are a better investment.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Josh, the RV Nerd at Bish’s RV
Learn About Campers
I’m a big fan of testing the waters, and if you’re getting the first trailer, I’d suggest a cheap, used trailer and plan on replacing it after a year or two.
See, when buying a trailer, you’ve no idea what’s important regarding your RV needs.
So, get a cheap, used trailer, put it to use, and dispose of it later. The real value here is education.
RV ownership entails many things, so I always believe your first camper should be used.
The learning experience from a used camper is crucial, and after a while, it gets easy for you to look at your next purchase with the eye of a grizzled veteran.
Determining the Value of a Used Camper
Determining the value of a used camper is challenging, at least for many RVers. The RV market is relatively small compared to cars, and no clear pricing guide is available.
Plus, the build quality greatly varies compared to that of automobiles.
Even then, you must know the actual value of a used RV when searching for one.
The good news is that RVers can use several avenues to determine their RVs’ actual value.
JD Power (formerly NADA RV Guide)
JD Power bought out the National Auto Dealers Association, NADA. Established in 1933, NADA is widely recognized in the RVing industry as the gold standard for accurate and comprehensive RV valuation information.
JD Power has a valuation guide and usually acts as a baseline when determining the exact price of a used RV.
RV Dealers
You could also peruse RV dealer websites to know the price of a used RV.
However, the big problem with used RV dealerships is that they tend to overinflate RV prices, so you must be careful. Gather information from a couple of dealers and see the average price.
The other thing is RVs in dealerships are usually not inspected, so don’t make your purchase blindly.
Online Market Places
Private-party sellers on social platforms such as Facebook, Craigslist, or classified ads are also great ways to determine the value of a used trailer.
Of course, the pricing here is all over the board, but it’ll give you a glimpse of what to expect on a particular model.
RV forums, especially on Reddit, Airforums, and IRV2, are also great resources for determining the value of a used RV.
Whatever resource you choose, understand there is no accurate valuation information, and the research is only meant to guide your purchase.
FAQs
Are Old RVs worth buying?
In my opinion, buying an old RV is worth it. It costs less and prevents the quick depreciation of a new RV. However, you must do due diligence before committing to an old or used RV.
What should I look for in a used RV?
The most significant risk of a used RV is water damage. Check for leakages and check the plumbing and draining systems to ensure proper functioning.
How long do travel trailers last?
Generally, most travel trailers have a minimum lifespan of 10 years, but this may extend up to 30 years, depending on the usage and care.
How to add value to a travel trailer?
Adding value to your travel trailer enhances your travel experience and increases its resale value. Regular maintenance, such as checking the tires, brakes, and roof, can prevent costly damages and keep the trailer in excellent condition.
Upgrading interior fixtures and appliances can also add value. Consider installing energy-efficient appliances or adding smart home features. Enhancing the exterior is another way to add value.
A fresh coat of paint or adding a canopy can improve its aesthetic appeal. Lastly, ensure that all the necessary documentation is updated.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Wandering Weekends
Wrapping Up
Determining the value of a used camper requires careful research and assessment. The first of the 7 tips on assessing the value of a used camper is to research market prices using online resources.
This provides a baseline for the camper’s value based on similar models and years. After this, evaluate the camper’s condition, inspecting the exterior and interior for signs of wear or damage.
The camper’s mileage should also be considered, as it reflects the vehicle’s usage and potential wear. Upgrades are another crucial factor to check.
Any enhancements, such as modern appliances or features, can significantly increase a camper’s value. Next, inspect the maintenance records.
Detailed records indicate proper care and upkeep of the camper, which can positively impact its worth. Lastly, evaluate the camper’s age. Older models may require more maintenance and might lack modern features compared to newer ones.
By following these 7 tips on determining the value of a used camper, one can understand a camper’s worth, ensuring a fair purchase or sale price.
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