It might seem like a simple choice, but there are many factors most new RVers should consider when deciding whether to buy a new or pre-owned RV. If you decide to go the pre-owned route, there are a few things to consider during the purchasing process. Check out our guide to choosing the perfect pre-owned RV.
Figure Out the Basics
Buying your first RV is a huge purchase that should be made with the utmost care and preparation. The first thing you should do before buying a pre-owned RV is to set a budget. Determine what you are comfortable spending and stick to that number or price range. Next, figure out what type of RV you are looking for. During this phase, consider the following:
- How often will you use your RV?
- How many people will you be RVing with?
- Where would you like to go and/or what kind of trips will you be going on?
- Are you comfortable driving a larger vehicle or are you comfortable towing a large trailer?
- If you decide on a towable, what kind of towing capacity does your car have?
Once you decide on the type of RV you prefer, then research what kind of floor plan best suits your needs. If you see yourself spending more time in the RV than out of it, a larger floor plan with plenty of living and entertainment space is best. If children or grandchildren will be traveling with you often, then you may want a floor plan that has bunk beds. If you own a motorcycle or ATV and need a place to store it, choose a toy hauler floor plan with a rear storage hangar.
Community Feedback Is the Best Feedback
After determining your budget, your preferred type of RV, and a floor plan, research the RV that’s ideal for you. If you’re still not sure and would like help finding RVs with your specifications, feel free to reach out to Lazydays and one of our highly trained sales experts can help you find the RV of your dreams.
To get a feel for how your desired pre-owned RV performs, look at what other RVers have to say about the model(s) you are interested in. Reading reviews from experienced RVers is a great way to get a feel for how the RV performs on the road, what it is like on different kinds of RV trips and other helpful insight.
Before Heading to the Dealer
Once you have settled on the pre-owned RV you are interested in, prepare a final checklist that includes important items and questions for the dealer. When you tour the RV at the dealership, inspect the unit thoroughly to make sure things are in working order. Your list of questions should cover how old the unit is, its mileage, any feedback from the past owners, and outstanding improvements or maintenance that will need to be performed.
For more helpful tips on purchasing an RV, check out Lazydays RV’s guide to Class A, Class B and Class C motorhomes, Fifth Wheels, Travel Trailers and Pop-Up Campers. If you have other questions, contact us or visit your local Lazydays RV dealer today!
