Yes, you can save money buying used but that can often become a nightmare too. There are reasons the owner sold or traded in the trailer and very often he knows what skeletons are in the closet and seldom do they reveal this to the dealer or the private party purchasing it. Keep in mind that a dealer only want's to make money on the used RV's they take in. Usually, a dealer will check a trade-in's book value, do a walk thru to note anything obviously not right and the general condition. Then temper their trade-in value price offer by what they thing it will sell for on their lot and local/regional market.
Many to most people trading in or selling will cover up or bandaids over a defect they know is there and will almost clean all showing mold or yellow leak indication and much as they can. They also want the best price they can get for their RV. We've seen it no less than 100 times over the years helping family and friends find a good used RV. No real guarantee and usually a max of a 30 day warrantee from a dealer on used RV's. Many even have lots of restrictions on it then or only offer 50/50 coverage. Buyer, beware!!! And green buyers be triple aware and have a trusted knowledgeable 3rd person look the used RV over in detail as a reasonable help but may not still catch all flaws and issues as so many are hidden or have been hidden. For instance: Buying a 3 year old used car and 6 months later the transmission goes out, guess who pays? Probably didn't actually get a good deal on it then! Right? Same with an RV!
Buying used, you get only what it is and perhaps as close to your wants as you can and always remember that you too will be selling it again so getting the best bang for your buck is going to be applied to/on both ends of ownership.
Yes, there are many excellent condition used RV's at dealerships and private party selling. Something to remember is that the lower quality cheaper to buy new RV's usually drop like a rock in used value even when in very nice condition and can by bought quite cheap.
On the other hand, high end better quality decently maintained and clean RV's will usually hold their book and resale value high and for much longer and you'll be literally stunned to get one at a very cheap price. They normally don't sit long at all before selling.
Most any new RV on a dealers lot and most that have to be ordered can be bought for 25% to 35% off the manufacturer's MSRP actual $ listed amount if you dicker well and shop around and pit dealer against dealer. Many dealers are very slippery and fake a higher MSRP value so you think you are getting 30% off and it's really will only be 15% or less. Again, buyer beware!
We only buy new because we could and can and always pay cash as we like to collect interest, not pay interest. Not everyone can or will do this but that's their option or personal business to decide upon. We also like first use and having a hitch to rear bumper or bumper to bumper true full warranty for as long as possible.
Jane, go back and re-read your "dilemma" thread posters comments.
A superb CC LB 4X4, GM HD Diesel, airbags, Rancho's, lots more
Lance Legend TC 11' 4", loaded including 3400 PP generator and my deluxe 2' X 7' rear porch
29 ft Carriage Carri-lite 5'er - a specially built gem
A like new '07 Sunline Solaris 26' TT
