Forum Discussion

campingnana's avatar
campingnana
Explorer
Mar 27, 2014

Keystone or Forest River

I would like suggestions on picking a used travel trailer. We now own a 2006 Rockwood 8283SS fifth wheel, but wanting to find a travel trailer. We had a Holiday Rambler, with the rear bedroom, before this one and loved it but it didn't have a slide. We are looking at a 2005 Keystone Mountaineer 305FKS and a 2010 Forest River Salem 29FKSS. Has anyone had any issues with either one of these models.
Would appreciate any information on these two models.
  • Speedogomer's avatar
    Speedogomer
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    Forest River and Keystone are about the 2 biggest manufacturers out there. One is owned by Thor Industries, and the other is Berkshire Hathaway. I wouldn't hesitate to buy either unit.
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    A 2005 won't lose much value over the next 5 years, maybe $3k. $5k for a 2010 model as long as they are well maintained. Buying used is the way to save money up front as well if you change your mind.
  • aarond76's avatar
    aarond76
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    Resale value? Not in a Travel Trailer. Pick the one you like best based on floor plan, condition, and current cost. Do not base the decision on resale value. You are buying the Travel Trailer to enjoy, not to sell. Assuming you are keeping these for (5) years, the resale value will be much more based on condition than Forest River vs. Keystone.
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    To reiterate, the value of a used TT will vary far more based on condition than age. If you keep it shiny, water leak free, and the interior undamaged, then it will no lose as much value as neglected and abused ones.
  • wmoses's avatar
    wmoses
    Explorer
    Mar 27, 2014
    aarond76 wrote:
    Resale value? Not in a Travel Trailer. Pick the one you like best based on floor plan, condition, and current cost. Do not base the decision on resale value. You are buying the Travel Trailer to enjoy, not to sell. Assuming you are keeping these for (5) years, the resale value will be much more based on condition than Forest River vs. Keystone.

    Agreed 1000%

    No RV other than maybe Airstream has great resale value. A lot of that has to do with "meh" initial quality and the fact that people are "living" in these units (read wear and tear).

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