The big purchase

+1 on buying used from a dealer. It's about time for all those RVs bought in the last 2 years to hit the used market. A lot of people found out that owning an RV is not exactly as depicted on the Extreme RVs and Go RVing TV shows.

One way to go if you want a used RV with verified maintenance is to look at the Rental Market. More than 100 people here on the forum have been very happy with their choice.

This worked out very well for me after doing pretty much what you have done,several months of looking,lotta scams and bad overpriced junk.

There is another choice. I bought my used RV from a dealer. The one I bought was being sold on consignment. The owner agreed to fix any issues and bring the unit to like new condition. The dealer had an incentive to find any issues, make the repairs and collect from the seller.

The 2016 got the six speed trans with hill engine braking.

Thanks. Yeah the part about the inspection is a great idea and one that would weed out the ones that know they are trying to sell a bucket of bolts. Im looking at ones that are in the 2004-2014 range with a slide out dining area and fixed or slide out walk around bed in back. Less than 30' and less than 100,000 miles.

JOERVDREAM wrote:

So my question is if anyone would like to offer an opinion is. Would it be a good idea to post an add wanting to buy an RV? Something like looking for responsible original owner. One who has kept up with all the maintenance and such, willing to negotiate? It appears to be a buyers market for used RVs so screening the sellers may work? I have seen enough adds to kind of spot the scams and unknowledgeable sellers as well as cruise America adds (without even having to open the adds anymore)Any thoughts on this?

You certainly can post an ad on Craigslist. I have done countless ads for "wanting" something. You will get a lot of responses that clearly you are not interested in. I might suggest the following:

1. State exactly what you are looking for. Year, mileage, floorplan, chassis (Ford, Chevy Dodge etc.) what features such as generator solar etc. Be as specific as possible stating must have items etc. Take your time and make this list as it will help you eliminate a lot of responses that do not meet your need.

2. In BOLD UPPERCASE state that responses that do not meet your requirements will not be responded to. Request multiple photos in response showing that your requirements are met.

3. You can provide your phone number in a Craigslist ad BUT be prepared that you might get phone calls at all hours of the day or night. It might be better to have them email you their phone number asking for a good time to call. If you do provide your number state the times that you will accept calls. Tell them calls or texts outside these hours will be ignored.

4. Consider getting the unit inspected prior to purchase. Kind of like a home inspection prior to buying. If you decide to do this, STATE this requirement in your ad. You will also have to state that you will pay for the inspection. If a seller refuses then that is not the RV for you.

I know that major purchases can be stressful but you are opening a exciting new chapter in your life. Take time and enjoy everything.

I wish you success in finding the perfect RV for you and much fun in the future.

Dave

What size are you looking for, I maybe getting ready to upgrade....

JOERVDREAM wrote:

So my question is if anyone would like to offer an opinion is. Would it be a good idea to post an add wanting to buy an RV?

It may work but, I'm guessing you will get a call from every RV dealer west of the Mississippi.
They will ignore the part of your ad about a Class C, original owner, etc..