When you’re looking for a way to travel in comfort, you might be checking out recreational vehicles. Whether you go with a new or used RV, you’ll have a lot more amenities within arm’s reach. But what factors do you need to weigh before making this big purchase?
Keep reading to discover 5 things you should consider before purchasing an RV!
1. Know Your Needs First
When the weather gets warmer, an RV can offer the freedom of transportation and a place to stay. But before you start looking, it’s wise to figure out your list of priorities. For instance, what type of floor plan do you want?
You also should consider size when you see an RV for sale. Do you have a driveway or garage to accommodate a trailer or vehicle? The last thing you want to do is get a huge RV that will have your neighbor grumbling when they see it in the driveway.
2. Consider a Used RV
Purchasing an RV can come with a high degree of sticker shock. After all, many better models come with a six-figure price tag. Consider opting for a used RV to cut that price in half.
Check for quality, though, since some sellers may have made cheap cosmetic fixes to mask bigger issues. Check to see that all cupboards open and look for tight seals around every window. You don’t want to get an RV that traps moisture inside.
3. Comparison Shop When Purchasing an RV
While you can save time getting the first RV for sale that you see, you might not save money. You’d be smarter visiting at least a few dealers and checking prices online.
It’s even easier to compare prices when you’ve honed in on the model you want. For instance, look at the price for a Wildwood 31KQBTS at one dealer versus another. Don’t be afraid to leverage a lower price at one dealership toward an even lower one elsewhere.
4. Get Everything in Writing
From the payment plan to the added features, be sure to get everything in writing. If you’re ordering an RV, you want to ensure that you get the right hitch or upholstery. Likewise, any special promotions that can shave money off the total need to be documented in writing as soon as possible.
5. Budget for Maintenance Costs
Recreational vehicles are a significant investment, but you need to make room in your budget for repairs or upgrades, too. This is particularly true if you buy a used RV without a lot of documentation of its repair record.
Buying a new RV through a traditional dealer can be helpful. You’ll always have a place with knowledgeable staff to fix a bad gasket or malfunctioning AC unit.
Find the Best RV for Sale
When purchasing an RV, it’s critical to start with research and a clear understanding of how much you can afford. From there, think about your layout needs and the scale of the vehicle. Check out a few dealers and crunch the numbers before committing to anything!
To find more ways to score the best deals, check back for new articles.
