Using the RV Classifieds to find your Recreational Vehicle

Are you the type who searches the classifieds to find a great used deal? Are you also the type to research all of your major purchases very carefully so that you don’t get taken advantage of? If this sounds like you, you might be tempted to use the RV classifieds to find a pre-owned recreational vehicle. Both individuals and consignment dealerships use the classifieds to sell recreational vehicles. This may or may not be the best choice depending on what your needs and desires are for your recreational vehicle, and also how much work you are willing to do in preparation for this purchase. There are three things you can do to make the process easier and less stressful for you and the seller. First, do your research, second, check out the recreational vehicle carefully, and third, tie up the loose ends.

When you are searching the RV classifieds you will find many makes and models for sale. In order for you to narrow your search, you need to research exactly what kind of recreational vehicle you are looking for. Do you want a towable or a motorized variety? What manufacturers are you considering? Each manufacturer has unique strengths and weaknesses. You can find reviews and customer satisfaction ratings in consumer magazines and online. You won’t find this information in the RV classifieds. Also you should find out about recreational vehicle financing and estimate how much you can afford to pay using an online recreational vehicle calculator. You can even be pre-approved for an recreational vehicle loan.

The second step, once you have found a recreational vehicle in the RV classifieds, is to get it checked out. Even consignment vehicles should be checked. Find a mechanic who is reliable and experienced in that particular type of recreational vehicle and have them examine everything. If the seller has a problem with this, that is an immediate “red flag” to you. (You might want to go back to the RV classifieds and find another vehicle to look at.) Once you have had it checked and any problem areas are noted you can decide if it is worth pursuing.

The Kelly Blue Book for recreational vehicles is an excellent tool to help you when you are negotiating a price for a recreational vehicle found in the RV classifieds. You can use it as a beginning point for finding a fair price for the recreational vehicle. The seller or consignment dealer will probably already have a good idea what price they think is fair, so you need to educate yourself to know the true worth taking into account anything you may have found at the mechanic.

One big advantage of buying from an individual using the RV classifieds is that you don’t have to worry about dealer commission. This may get you a better price. One advantage of buying from a consignment dealer out of the RV classifieds is that the dealer has a bigger selection and inventory and can find something in your price range that may not be available from an individual.

Once you have negotiated a price that is fair to both parties, it is time to finish up your financing. When you buy consignment the dealer may have lenders that they work with that can get you the best rates. If you buy from an individual you will have to arrange your own financing through a bank, credit union or other lender. If you have good credit, this should not be a problem.

Buying an recreational vehicle can be stressful, but a good deal smoothes out the tension and makes it a lot sweeter. Buying a pre-owned recreational vehicle through the classifieds can be an excellent way to find a good deal, but you must do your homework. Hopefully, it will all be worth it.