In December 2010, I purchased a very clean 2000 36 ft Holiday Rambler Endeavor Gaser with 52k miles for $24,000. It was a Bank of America repo at auction. I have spent about $6000 on it in 3 years. Most of that was the first year. Six new Michelins (had original tires on it), 4 new 6 volt batteries, new slide out cover on large slide (was missing), rear spring rework, new shocks and sway bar bushings, 2 new flat screen tv’s, new custom built mattress and new fluids, belts, etc…..
I do most of my own maintenance for things like fluids, belts, sway bar bushing, installing the new batteries and TV’s.
I also put about $4000.00 into a 1994 Class A purchased for $8000.00 in 2006. Sold it in early 2011 for $10,000.00 after about 20k miles of use. Same as above with new tires, some alignment and spring work, new laminate flooring and a few minor repairs.
I put about $3000.00 into a 1989 Class C purchased for $7000.00 in 2002. Sold it for $7500 in 2006 for $7500.00 after about 20k miles of use. Again, same as above with new tires, new carpet and a few repairs.
I have yet to purchase one that didn’t need new tires. The tires did all look good, but I prefer not to travel cross country in the summer heat with 7-10 year old tires.
Since I am capable of doing most of my own maintenance I will likely never purchase a new unit and take the depreciation hit. I prefer paying cash for an older, clean unit and spending a little more getting it the way I want it.
Hopes this helps answer your question.
Michael
