How to shop for Class B
I'm not sure if this is a too-broad question, but I'll try. I want to look at camping vans --- either one that is already fixed up (like Roadtrek), or purchasing a van and having it customized. ...
Forum Discussion
Hi Folks,
Here is how I did it. We who shop for class B vans are lucky to have the internet.
1. Spend a lot of time reading about class B's on the internet. You will be able to see which model and layout will fit what you needs. Check out manufacturers sites. For instance Roadtrek has a site that carries older brochures.
2. Go to dealers and spend time in Class B models, hopefully with out the salesman with you. Put together questions, and then invite the salesman in to answer the questions.
3. Try and go around and see models for sale used in area. (Never buy any used RV with out seeing it.)
4. Go to RV shows and check out what is for sale. Check other classes (C, A, Truck Campers, Trailers etc) Maybe the class B isn't for you.
5. Check all the ads for what you want so you can get a good idea what different RV's are worth. (When I was looking a couple of years ago, I figured that a used class B built before 2000 with 100,000 miles could be purchased for $5,000.00 to $10,000.) Chart all of them out. Keep a list of used within 300 miles. I was trying to find one for sale in New England because I live outside of Boston.
6. If you are looking for a used one, try and find which dealers deal in used. Call every week to see if they have a new used unit in. My observation is that RV salesmen are basically lazy and will forget about you ten minutes after you call them.
7. Go to the library and get every book on RVing and study them. You might want to buy a book on all the systems you will find on a RV. These include fresh water, sewer, propane gas, appliances, 110 electrical, 12 volt systems, generator, etc. If you feel that you need to be an Engineer to own an RV, you are right. If you start studying now it will help you to evaluate your purchase and you will become an engineer.
8. After purchasing a new or used unit, hire a RV mechanic and have them go over everything while you ask questions and observe. Make sure you have every manual for every system in your RV. Study the manuals over and over. (I am still trying to understand the fresh water system after a year of ownership.)
This is just some of the ways you can buy your dream RV. Remember, this is an emotional purchase.
Heapie
Here is how I did it. We who shop for class B vans are lucky to have the internet.
1. Spend a lot of time reading about class B's on the internet. You will be able to see which model and layout will fit what you needs. Check out manufacturers sites. For instance Roadtrek has a site that carries older brochures.
2. Go to dealers and spend time in Class B models, hopefully with out the salesman with you. Put together questions, and then invite the salesman in to answer the questions.
3. Try and go around and see models for sale used in area. (Never buy any used RV with out seeing it.)
4. Go to RV shows and check out what is for sale. Check other classes (C, A, Truck Campers, Trailers etc) Maybe the class B isn't for you.
5. Check all the ads for what you want so you can get a good idea what different RV's are worth. (When I was looking a couple of years ago, I figured that a used class B built before 2000 with 100,000 miles could be purchased for $5,000.00 to $10,000.) Chart all of them out. Keep a list of used within 300 miles. I was trying to find one for sale in New England because I live outside of Boston.
6. If you are looking for a used one, try and find which dealers deal in used. Call every week to see if they have a new used unit in. My observation is that RV salesmen are basically lazy and will forget about you ten minutes after you call them.
7. Go to the library and get every book on RVing and study them. You might want to buy a book on all the systems you will find on a RV. These include fresh water, sewer, propane gas, appliances, 110 electrical, 12 volt systems, generator, etc. If you feel that you need to be an Engineer to own an RV, you are right. If you start studying now it will help you to evaluate your purchase and you will become an engineer.
8. After purchasing a new or used unit, hire a RV mechanic and have them go over everything while you ask questions and observe. Make sure you have every manual for every system in your RV. Study the manuals over and over. (I am still trying to understand the fresh water system after a year of ownership.)
This is just some of the ways you can buy your dream RV. Remember, this is an emotional purchase.
Heapie
