Your RV is Out There
Browse Popular Brands
Browse RV Listings
Looking to Sell Your RV?
We Can Help
We’ve helped happy customers sell their RVs for over 20 years.
Sell My RVRV Buying FAQ
Is it financially smart to buy an RV?
Whether it is financially smart to buy an RV really depends on your financial situation and priorities. Things to consider include:
- Cost: RVs can be expensive to purchase, and ongoing maintenance should be considered.
- Frequency of use
- Resale value: RVs depreciate over time, which means you may not recoup your initial investment.
- Lifestyle: if you enjoy traveling and exploring new places, an RV can be a great way to do so.
- Financing: if financing your RV, you should consider your monthly payment, interest rate and how long the loan will be.
If you have the budget and enjoy traveling, an RV can be tremendously rewarding.
When is the best time to buy an RV?
The best time to buy an RV depends on several factors, including your budget, travel plans, and current market conditions. Here a few times to buy an RV:
- End of season sales
- RV shows
- The “off-season” – late December has the lowest prices but also the lowest inventory. In late spring or summer when everyone else is buying, RVs will be harder to find because of demand and potentially more expensive.
Can you save money living in an RV?
Living in an RV can be a cost-effective way compared to traditional housing, but it depends on your lifestyle and travel plans. It’s essential to consider all the costs involved, including the initial cost of the RV, ongoing maintenance and repair, and cost of travel.
What type of RV is best for my needs?
The type of RV that is best for you depends on your lifestyle, travel plans, and personal preferences. When researching what RV you should buy, start with what class of RV best suits your travel needs. From there you can find an RV within the class that has all the amenities that you desire. This is a big topic and we have more information in this blog on: Which RV is Best for Me?
Should I buy a used or new RV?
Ultimately, the decision to buy a new or used RV comes down to your budget, the features you need, the availability to find the RV you desire, and your comfort level with owning a pre-owned RV over a new RV. There are pros and cons to each. Here are a few to consider:
New RV
Pros
- Latest features and technology
- Manufacturer’s warranty
- Customizable options
- No previous wear and tear
- Less short-term maintenance
Cons
- Higher cost
- Faster depreciation
- May haven initial issues and bugs to work out
- No history of reliability
Used RV
Pros
- Lower cost
- Depreciates at a slower rate.
- May have necessary upgrades or modifications.
- Proven track record of reliability
Cons
- Risk of pre-existing issues
- Limited customization options
- Financing could be more difficult and expensive
- Cost of maintenance will probably be higher than buying new.
Make sure to do your research and find out what your best option is. If you are patient and do your due diligence, there are some great benefits to owning a used RV.
How can I determine the condition of a used RV before purchasing it?
Before purchasing a used RV, it’s important to have the RV professionally inspected to determine it’s overall condition. Companies like Premier RV Inspections perform professional inspecitions for buyers across the US. Remember, a thorough inspection can save you a lot of money in the long run.
What are the most important features to look for in an RV?
When looking for an RV, the most important features to consider really depend on your needs and preferences. Provided the RV has all the amenities and features you are looking for, the overall condition of the vehicle is just as important as the features it comes with.
How can I finance my RV purchase?
Banks will often be willing to provide financing for RVs. There are a few places that specialize in RV Financing, and may be able to respond quicker and find better rates than banks. For help financing your RV, we suggest Great RV Loan. In addition to having access to great rates, they are known for the personal service they offer their clients.
What is the cost of RV insurance and what does it cover?
The cost and coverage of RV insurance can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. We have teamed up with American Adventure Insurance to provide RV insurance policies in all 50 states for private buyers like you. They work with all major insurance providers so their rates are always competitive, and they get you the coverage that you need while on the road.
What maintenance and upkeep is required for owning an RV?
Owning an RV requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure that it stays in good condition and operates safely. Some of the most important maintenance tasks include:
- Tire maintenance: check tire pressure and condition often, rotate as needed.
- Regular inspections: check for damage, wear and tear, cracks, or potential leaks, etc.…
- Keep it clean: prevents damage from dirt, debris, and weather.
- Fluid checks: check and change all necessary fluids regularly.
- Battery care: check the health and charge level, clean the terminals, replace as needed.
- Plumbing: check for leaks and keep systems clean.
- Winterization: fully winterize your RV to prevent freezes damagingthe RV, and to prevent mold rot and clogged pipes and tanks.
- Roof maintenance: inspect regularly and make any necessary repairs to prevent leaks immediately.
- Pest control: seal openings, use repellents, and clean the RV completely after every use.
- Regular use: using an RV is the best way to keep your RV in good working order. One of the worst things for an RV is to just sit around.
Can I drive an RV with a standard driver’s license?
The requirements for driving an RV with a standard driver’s license vary depending on the state or province where you are driving. It’s important to check the laws and regulations in your specific location for the type of RV you plan to drive to ensure that you have the correct license and endorsements.
What are the most common problems with an RV and how can I avoid them?
Here are some of the most common problems that RV owners experience, as well as tips on how to avoid them:
- Water leaks: to avoid leaks, regularly inspect the roof, windows, doors, and plumbing and immediately fix any leak no matter how small.
- Electrical issues: have a qualified technician inspect the electrical system regularly and immediately fix electrical issues you notice while RVing.
- Tire blowouts: Ensure that the RV is not overloaded check the pressure and condition of tires, and always carry a spare.
- Mechanical issues: follow the manufactuer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
- Pest infestations: to avoid infestations, seal any openings in the RV, store food and trash properly, and use pest repellents/traps.
By regularly maintaining and inspecting your RV, you can avoid the most common problems keep your RV running smoothly, and protect the value of your investment.
How can I negotiate the best price for the RV I am interested in?
When trying to negotiate the best price on the RV you are trying to purchase there are a few things you can do to give yourself the best shot at paying the lowest price. A few steps to take are to research the market, point out the flaws, make a reasonable offer, be respectful the entire time, and lastly be prepared to walk away.
What are some common RV financing mistakes?
The biggest RV financing mistake we see is biting off more than you can chew. When purchasing an RV, it is best to check your finances, set a budget, and then stick to it! Remember licensing and insurance will need to be paid as soon as you buy an RV.
Should I purchase an extended warranty for my RV?
Whether or not to purchase an extended warranty for your RV depends on your personal situation and risk tolerance. Some factors to consider include the cost of the extended warranty, age and condition of the RV, likelihood of repairs, coverage and exclusions, and your personal risk tolerance.
If interested in finding out more about an extended warranty, Wholesale Warranties helps RV owners protect their investment. They will give you a quote, and you can decide from there.
How do I properly maintain and store my RV when not in use?
Proper maintenance and storage of your RV when it’s not in use is essential for keeping it in good condition and ensuring that it’s ready for your next adventure. A few things you can do to make sure your investment is protected is to clean and inspect the RV regularly, drain and winterize your plumbing system, check the tires and keep them covered when not in use, disconnect the battery, keep or use a cover, store in a dry location, and lastly perform regular maintenance checks and fix issues when found.
Can I test drive an RV before I buy it?
Test driving an RV is an important part of the RV buying process, as it allows you to get a feel for the vehicle and make sure it’s a good fit for your needs. Make sure to ask the seller about any requirements or restrictions they have.
Should I rent an RV before buying one?
Renting an RV before buying one can be a good idea, as it allows you to experience RVing firsthand. Renting is expensive, and could cost 10% of the cost of buying an RV, but if you have never camped in an RV, we think it is a great first step.
What is the process of transferring ownership of an RV?
The process of transferring ownership of any RV varies depending on the state or province in which you are located. It is important to note that the specific requirements are regionally based, so it’s a good idea to check with your local DMV or equivalent agency for specific instructions and requirements. (State DMV list is available here.)
What are the benefits of joining an RV club or association?
There are many benefits of joining an RV club or association: you can access discounts and deals, help in finding community and socializing, educational resources, advocacy and representation, group travel opportunities, etc.… Find a club or association that meshes well with you and become a member! One great way is to ask other RVers who you enjoy being around at the campground which clubs they are members of.