Forum Discussion

larrymjones's avatar
larrymjones
Explorer
Jan 07, 2016

EBay, Craigslist or Other On Line Motor Home Purchases?

Hey All-this is our first post so be "gentle" with your responses, please. We've been Motor Homing for a little over a year and have the fever to "upgrade". We've been doing research on all the conventional sites, but keep noticing the large number of MHs available on EBAY and Craigslist as well. Many of these units seem inviting regarding their appearance and prices, but the whole process frightens us. We're wondering if any of you seasoned RVers has ever made such a purchase(s), and if so, we'd love to hear about your overall experience, please? Thanks in advance for your input, advice and comments.

17 Replies

  • Naio's avatar
    Naio
    Explorer II
    rgatijnet1 wrote:
    Buying from eBay is no different than buy from a newspaper ad or magazine ad or stopping by a dealer's lot.
    It is just another source to find what you are looking for. The exact same cautions exist with all sources...a complete inspection by a competent inspector and YOU. Do not believe pictures and never send money without seeing the coach in person.


    Yep.

    I found my van online, test drove and inspected in person. It's been great for 4 years now.
  • Buying from eBay is no different than buy from a newspaper ad or magazine ad or stopping by a dealer's lot.
    It is just another source to find what you are looking for. The exact same cautions exist with all sources...a complete inspection by a competent inspector and YOU. Do not believe pictures and never send money without seeing the coach in person.
  • bought mine off craigs list AFTER taking to truck mechanic for a POWERTRAIN inspection, compression test, brakes checked etc cost me about $250.00 but I knew the rig was mechanically okay
  • done both e bay and craigs list both have been good, never ever buy without inspecting the rv. if a deal sounds to good to be true? RUN .as the other post says it all ,use your head when dealing .
  • You're been a forum member since November 2014 and this is your first post. Obviously you don't rush into things.
    Don't be in a hurry to buy. I would not buy online unless, I inspected the unit in person.
    There are too many scams. Be careful, especially since you have the 'fever'. :)
    Enjoy your search.
  • I've purchased three motorhomes since 2005 on eBay. Have been satisfied with ALL three. Ask specific questions about the mechanical systems and roof. Make sure you get an answer on the site. The first purchase I had an experienced motorhome owner ask the questions.
  • I've not bought an RV off of eBay but I have sold several. None of the buyers actually bought through eBay but they did CONTACT me through them. As a seller I would never expect to receive a contract to buy without them checking the unit out. I always try to be overly descriptive and upfront with the good, the bad, and even the ugly.

    If you see a unit on eBay, then by all means contact the seller, ask all the questions you have, and ask to be contacted should the unit not sell. To me, eBay for large items is just a billboard to attract an audience.