inspectors vs doing it yourself
Our budget won't allow us to buy new. For months I have been in forums reading what to look for when buying used. (I have made lists.)I am wondering which is better: paying an inspector or inspecting ...
Forum Discussion
WyoTraveler wrote:You've nailed it. But it's hard to teach experience and the instinct you learn by having done it.
The big problem is there are probably great inspectors and no so great inspectors. I bought and sold rental stick houses for years in Southern CA. I have had trained licensed inspectors that couldn't tell the difference between Romex and foam twin TV lead in. I have spent over 50 years buying and selling RVs. TCs, 5ver, TT, MHs. Just when I thought I had it all figured out I miss things. I wouldn't want to suggest either way. You do need to make a list like you have been doing.
Things I would look for. Does the exterior look like it has been cared for? If an owner has taken care of the exterior maybe he has done the same for the interior. However, don't let that fool you. Sometimes consignment dealers suggest they have the exterior cleaned up. Look at the interior. Scuffs and scratches. Beyond normal use. If you look at a lot of RVs you will see what I mean. A dozen kids and a dog in a small RV can do a lot of damage. Do all of the appliances work? Make a list of every electronic or electrical item in the RV and check it out. On a hot day you may pass up the furnace. Don't pass anything up. My wife and I work as a team. Before we make an offer we are off by our selves. We discuss different items. We almost made an offer on a used MH last year. We both loved it. My wife happen to see a decal on the exterior that was painted around. I had been inside and noticed the slide had more space on one side than the other. Once we started comparing notes we concluded the MH had been in a major accident, was repainted and the slide just didn't fit right. No matter what the deal you have to pass those RVs up. Just don't buy on your first visit. Go back several times to check out things you may have missed on your first visit. Don't be afraid to wear old clothes and crawl under the RV. New welding and painted over? Just because a unit is on consignment for a certain price doesn't mean the owner won't come down in price. Tell the consignment dealer you think it is a little over priced. Keep in mind you are the one with the money and we are in a recession. JMHO
