Forum Discussion

sele's avatar
sele
Explorer
Jul 23, 2014

how do you know when to trade

Our f'ver is a 2004 and looks like brand new inside, the ouside shows some use but nothing even remotely bad just the usual wear and tear associated with it's age. We really still like it but I wonder about the fiscal issue. If we go to long it will depreciate until it has no value. At the same time it is paid for and when not in use doesn't cost us a dime. Any thoughts or how often do you trade? Maybe how old is your f'ver something to help us as a base thanks all
Scott

23 Replies

  • Our f'ver is a 2004 and looks like brand new inside, the ouside shows some use but nothing even remotely bad just the usual wear and tear associated with it's age. We really still like it but I wonder about the fiscal issue. If we go to long it will depreciate until it has no value. At the same time it is paid for and when not in use doesn't cost us a dime. Any thoughts or how often do you trade? Maybe how old is your f'ver something to help us as a base thanks all
    Scott


    The depreciation on a new RV is severe. Yours is ten years old and has had most of the depreciation occur. For most fifth wheels and travel trailers the value at the five year mark is about fifty percent of new, or about ten percent a year. It is far less expensive to keep what you have assuming it is still in great shape than trade for new. But........it you want a new one, then that is reason enough to get one. There are websites where you can get an idea of what it is worth. NADA is one of those. If you trade for a new one at a dealership don't expect to get much. You will either get a lot for your trade and pay more than necessary for the new coach or you will get less for your trade and pay less for the new coach. The deaer will get something. Selling it yourself to a private party usually gets the most. Then go get the best deal through the dealer on a new one.
  • When you no longer like the RV, floor plan, colors, etc., then it's time to sell/trade.
    IF you like your unit, I would keep it.

    It's like cars. Some people feel it is necessary to buy a new car every few years. I don't. As long as I like what I have, I keep it.

    I wouldn't worry about depreciation. As soon as you buy a new unit, you lose money. JMO
  • I think going into owning a camper knowing you are going to loose money is important. Figuring how much you are going to loose is I think where your question is.
    If your curent unit meets your needs and has no issue that you can't live with, keep it. As you said at this point when setting it does not cost you a dime. Will the payment/interest of a new unit be less than the depreciation of your unit, probably not.
    Jim