A survey in 2021 showed that 31% of respondents were first-time RV owners. Out of all US RV owners, 1.5% of them live in their RV full-time.
If you want to buy an RV, you may not know how to go about doing this. Buying a used RV is a common option for first-time owners.
But if you were going to go this route, there are some things you need to know first. For instance, there are certain questions you want to ask before making the deal.
Keep reading to find out what to ask when you are buying a used RV.
Why Is the RV for Sale?
RV ownership is a big deal, and this is a significant investment. Even when you are buying a used camper, you still want to be very careful before making the purchase.
One question you want to ask is why the RV is being sold. There is no guarantee that the seller will be honest, but it is worth asking.
They may let you know that there is an issue with the camper or it needs a repair. It may be too expensive, or they are looking to buy a different option.
No matter the reason, this is always a good question to start with.
Is There Documentation?
RV maintenance records are very similar to records for any other vehicle. This documentation provides a title, registration, the owner’s manual, and documents about repairs.
Documentation is important because it lays the groundwork for the RV. You can see its history and any issues that have come up along the way.
It is also important that you can check that the title is clean. The last thing you want to do is buy a used RV that has something illegal tied to it.
Can You Take It For a Test Drive?
Whenever you are buying an RV, there are certain steps you need to take first. One of these steps is to take it for a test drive before finalizing the purchase.
A test drive allows you to get a feel for how the RV works. You may notice that there is an issue that the seller did not discuss.
Or you may find that you do not like the way the RV handles the road. This is especially important if you are a beginner and do not have RV driving experience.
You want to choose an RV that is easy to handle and allows you to feel confident. If the seller doesn’t let you take a test drive, this could be an immediate red flag.
Does It Need Repairs?
Another question you need to ask before buying a used RV regards the condition. This is important when it comes to your budget and the warranty for that vehicle.
Most sellers are honest and will tell you upfront if there is an issue. But it is always a good idea to see if you can hire someone to inspect the vehicle as well.
Someone who is being honest with you should not have an issue with this. Checking for damage is important since this can be A huge expense that comes up later on.
For instance, you want to check for water damage since that is common in RVs. It is also important that you check the entire RV for any signs of rust.
If there is any kind of damage, you want to make sure you are completely aware of this beforehand.
How Many People Have Owned It?
When you are buying a used RV, there are many factors you need to consider. One of these details is how many owners previously had the RV.
If the RV has switched hands multiple times, you want to know why. This could be a sign of a common issue or a repair that was never addressed.
This is also important because records are often lost between multiple owners. This could leave gaps where you do not know the history of the RV.
How Old Are the Tires?
Like any vehicle, certain RV replacements and repairs can be very expensive. This is why you should ask about the RV tires and how old they are.
In most cases, it is best to buy an RV with relatively new tires. You can also check the tires to see if there are any signs of significant wear and tear.
If the tires look worn, the investment may not be worthwhile. Or you may be able to negotiate a lower price with the seller.
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Has It Been Updated?
A lot of owners invest in their RV from the very beginning. Many people make updates to the interior and add a variety of extra features.
It is always a good idea to ask about any updates the RV has had. For instance, the water tanks may have been replaced or different kitchen features were installed.
An updated RV is often a more lucrative investment as it provides more comfort.
Buying a Used RV: What to Do Before Making the Purchase
If you are new to RV ownership, you may be considering buying a used RV. If that is the case, you need to ask questions regarding the history of the RV and any repairs it needs.
Did you enjoy reading this article about RV ownership? Keep reading for more travel-related content.