How to Negotiate an Equitable Price

Floridastorm wrote:

If, as you suggest, I search dealers countrywide, should I get some pricing for a couple of units that I am interested in and then go to the local dealers and show them the pricing if they do not agree to negotiate? Is there any organization that publishes approximate pricing for types of RVs. Kind of like Kelly Blue Book?

I guess you're looking at new RV's?

I'm not aware of any place to get the kind of manufacturer pricing data for RV's that you're used to with cars.

My strategy is to decide what make/model I want first, and then try to get a price I'm comfortable with second. I'm typically not interested it getting my 2nd choice coach for a little $ savings. Obviously, don't shop for stuff that's not in your financial ballpark to start with.

Typically, deciding the make/model will involve working with a new dealer. I'm upfront with them and tell them I'm just trying to decide what I like right now. When I get to the next step (pricing) I'll give them a final shot at my business if they sell what I decide on since they helped out in the first step.

Once I decide the make/model, the strategy can vary based on what you choose. Some makes have dealers that specialize in non-local sales. Some models are sold at places like Rvdirect where you can find upfront prices. Owners groups for the make you're interested are a great place to start.

Again, I always give the first dealer (who helped me decide which model to focus on) a final shot at my business unless they've done something to run me off. Sometimes they earn the sale. Other times they just can't compete. They should understand this if they've been in the business for a while without having hard feelings.

For used RV's, I'd focus on low mileage first owners whose plans have changes for whatever reason. You can find nice clean 10-20k mile units for much less than new if you're willing to travel and be patient.

Good Luck - take it one step at a time.