Purchasing a Travel Trailer

Take your time. Don't be in a hurry to buy anything. Look at everything that interests you, new and used. Go to dealer lots an RV Shows.

Then, decide what is best for you.
And, ask lots of questions before you make a purchase.

If you are going to buy new or used, do your homework and know what you are getting and what you should pay for it. There are many options on new trailers and those options add up or simply are not worth what the dealer charges for them.

I don't buy into the saying that if you are a first time buyer, you should by used. I'll occasionally look on Craig's List and see older models of the same TT I have listed at prices higher that I paid for mine new. We chose to buy new because while I am mechanically inclined, TT's were new to me and I wanted the peace of mind of the factory warranty (although our Jayco has never had an issue in over 2 years).

As others have stated, if you find a used model you like, have an independent mechanic or friend that is RV knowledgeable look over the unit. Finding a reputable dealer that will stand behind their sale is a must.

The first question should be `what do I want the camper to do for us' per the following:
To help you decide on what RV to buy you could go to www.rvknowhow.com and read Joe and Vicki’s suggestions and/or download their e-book `RV Buyers Homework’, which walks you through the process of choosing the best RV for your needs, selecting the right floor plans and features, determining the RV’s cargo-carrying and towing capacities and evaluating its livability. (Nov-Dec Highways, pg. 21)
RVtravel.com and the Better Business Bureau have a DVD that covers the same subject
(http://rvbookstore.com/shop/detail.aspx?p=710&m=2) and Chuck Woodbury has an ebook with similar advice.

I would only buy a new trailer from a reputable dealer.

I am on my third one in 20 years as I upgraded each time

jack L

Buy what you like. Buying from a PP or dealer is kind of immaterial to me. Sometimes you can get great deals from private parties. But often times they think their stuff is worth way more than it actually is. As a first timer, definitely buy used.

that question is so LOADED.

its like a used car... or a used house...

can you believe the seller.. dealer or person selling in a yard...

I purchased a used trailer from a dealer 2 months ago.. got a 30 day warranty. and needed it. and I am a retied auto mechanic..
without lots of travel trailer skill and experience. call a RV inspector.