Forum Discussion

Squarebanks's avatar
Squarebanks
Explorer
Apr 27, 2015

Best places to purchase?

I'm looking for both physical locations and popular websites that sell RVs. I am looking more for used RVs but I've seen a few new travel trailers that are within my budget.

I won't be purchasing for a couple of years but I'm currently looking into pricing for various types of RVs and accessories so I can save and plan accordingly. Right now it's a toss up between a nice travel trailer and a 5th wheel. I like the floor plans of the 5th wheel trailers a bit better (not to mention their lower towing profile and more secure towing) but my truck would need some serious upgrades since I drive a half ton. Anyway, still looking into my options.

I've been told that some places around the US are better for purchasing used RVs in general. Particularly places with an older demographic. It sounded odd to me that people would be selling off their RV BEFORE they retire...but apparently some do. Is this true? Meaning would places like dealerships or craigslist in Arizona be a good choice when looking for a used RV?

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Cheers :)

8 Replies

  • TXiceman's avatar
    TXiceman
    Explorer II
    May 05, 2015
    PPL Motorhomes in Houston is a huge consignment operation.

    Ken
  • Squarebanks's avatar
    Squarebanks
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    arhayes wrote:
    As important as price is, features and layout you want are even more important, especially if you'll FullTime. I'd suggest making a list of "must have", " like if it had", and "unimportant to us" items. It's also important to clarify between you the type of camping you'll do. Decide whether camping inside the local State park is important, or boon docking often, etc. because that may restrict the length or type of rig you'll want.You'll often find that the latest and greatest item means nothing to you, and you'll pay for it if not careful. Good luck!


    This is where I start to spin from all the options, and wondering how those options will impact my experience. Since I will be living in it full time, with two large dogs, space was an important factor for me. I liked two slide models (or one large slide) that made for a nice large living room area. However, I don't know how slides effect the overall economics (probably not the right word) of my rig. If I end up spending an occasional winter in Oregon or South Dakota will slides end up killing me in costs of heating? I'm also a big guy (6'3" 250lb), so would I need to be concerned with a slide eventually giving out from stress? Especially if it was one of the bed slides that comes straight out of the back? There is so much to consider...as much as I don't want to wait several years to make this happen it is probably keeping me from making a snap decision. At least I have time to plan.
  • arhayes's avatar
    arhayes
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    As important as price is, features and layout you want are even more important, especially if you'll FullTime. I'd suggest making a list of "must have", " like if it had", and "unimportant to us" items. It's also important to clarify between you the type of camping you'll do. Decide whether camping inside the local State park is important, or boon docking often, etc. because that may restrict the length or type of rig you'll want.You'll often find that the latest and greatest item means nothing to you, and you'll pay for it if not careful. Good luck!
  • Squarebanks's avatar
    Squarebanks
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    RV Trader is great...I have a feeling I will be spending a lot of time on this website!
  • Squarebanks's avatar
    Squarebanks
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    I don't think the older demographic is referring to people who sell their RV before they retire. I think it's people who can no longer use the RV or people who are no longer with us.

    If you're not buying for a couple years, take your time and do a lot of research and looking. Continue to check all the sites, PPL, Ebay, Craigs List, etc..

    Time is on your side. And, ask lots of questions, in the future you will be ready to buy the best RV for your needs.

    Enjoy the search. You may find a really good deal close to where you live.



    Oh, wow...I feel a little dense right now. Hopefully I didn't offend anyone.

    Great info! Time is definitely on my side. Planning this big move is probably the most thought I've put into anything in quite awhile, heh. I've been doing tons of research and collecting information on anything I possibly can. I just want to make informed decisions when the time comes to act.

    I'm way too excited. Waiting several years is going to seem like an absolute eternity.
  • Squarebanks's avatar
    Squarebanks
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    eichacsj wrote:
    If you are just looking at prices and best places to buy for a couple of years, I would follow RV Trader. You will also be able to select areas and see how the prices change for the same RV and get a feel of where the best regional areas are to buy when you are ready. Dealers and Craigslist won't give you much unless you go look at them. Start looking for checklists to put together on what to look for in used RV's.

    Good luck and have fun.


    Thanks I'll definitely take a look!
  • eichacsj's avatar
    eichacsj
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    If you are just looking at prices and best places to buy for a couple of years, I would follow RV Trader. You will also be able to select areas and see how the prices change for the same RV and get a feel of where the best regional areas are to buy when you are ready. Dealers and Craigslist won't give you much unless you go look at them. Start looking for checklists to put together on what to look for in used RV's.

    Good luck and have fun.
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Apr 27, 2015
    Squarebanks wrote:
    It sounded odd to me that people would be selling off their RV BEFORE they retire...but apparently some do. Is this true?

    Any input would be greatly appreciated! Cheers :)


    I don't think the older demographic is referring to people who sell their RV before they retire. I think it's people who can no longer use the RV or people who are no longer with us.

    If you're not buying for a couple years, take your time and do a lot of research and looking. Continue to check all the sites, PPL, Ebay, Craigs List, etc..

    Time is on your side. And, ask lots of questions, in the future you will be ready to buy the best RV for your needs.

    Enjoy the search. You may find a really good deal close to where you live.

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