How to price a TT that has been lived in for 5 years?

[janegowest]

We are looking at a TT that has been lived in full-time, in one location. It has not been moved, except to change owners, from the first to the second.

It is priced according to NADA, but I would think that NADA pricing is for recreational use. Rigs that have been lived in would have a lot more wear and tear on them...they ave two large dogs as well. I wonder if it affects the structure overall...particularly, of the flooring?

Also, the slides have not been moved for the 1.5 years that this last couple has been living in it. It's a 2012 Cougar 321RES. I really like the floorplan more than anything else that I've seen, including fifth wheels. The kitchen is especially nice.

Going to see it tomorrow...a private party...they are asking $18,000 for it, and I'm wondering what we should offer on it.

Would appreciate your help in this matter! Thank you! 🙂

[BarneyS]

Moved to TT forum from DIY.

[azrving]

Sometimes wheel bearings will pit right where the roller is touching the race while sitting. Not always but sometimes. I wouldn't head out on any long trips without a good inspection.

You can smell it and see it but most importantly is finding any water damage. It's not cheap but you can replace cushions and fabrics or ac units or refrigerators but you don't want to even think about water damage. Be happy if you buy used and the $1800 fridge dies vs your foot going through the floor

[ppine]

I would never buy a trailer that has been lived in. Too much wear on everything.

[Lwiddis]

Was the TT designed for fulltime living? If no, then why consider buying it?

[coolmom42]

Good advice above, although I will add that it's perfectly possible to paint the inside walls and cabinets in a RV. It requires some care and prep, but people do it all the time.

[gbopp]

janegowest wrote:
One thing though...when we purchase from a dealer who has had a trade-in of rigs that have been lived in, they don't tell you anything, so how are we to know?

Look for the obvious. Torn/worn carpets and upholstery.
Smells and odors. Are there a bunch of air fresheners in the unit. Are there any quick or shoddy repairs, things glued and taped together. Excessive wear, scratches from the dogs. Damage that was covered with paint or stain. Evidence of leaks, soft floors.
You can usually tell in a couple minutes if it's something that really interests you.

[westernrvparkow]

First and foremost I would give the rig a literal smell test. If it smells of dogs (or excessive air freshener) that would be enough for me to pass. It is much harder to replace the things that hold pet odors in an RV than it is in a stick home. Carpet, window covering, furniture etc. are all much more difficult to replace in an RV. Often the walls of an RV are of a construction that hold odors and they can't be painted over.
Next up would just be to look at the general wear and tear. It should be obvious what is OK and what is near the end of it's useful life.
As for the chassis, if they haven't moved it in 5 years, take that advice others have given and get it professionally inspected if everything else is to your liking. Lubrication of the axles, hubs and the like depend upon movement. Tires rot and many other items benefit from usage. This is a big enough purchase to get professional help.
As for pricing, it does take two to tango. Doesn't really matter what you think it is worth if the seller isn't willing to go that low. I would be more than willing to pay a premium price if the rig was what I wanted. Conversely, I wouldn't buy even a screaming bargain price if rig didn't fit my needs.

[janegowest]

Mountain Mama wrote:
If you’re on Facebook and haven’t already, check out the FB page "RV Pricing and Values" before deciding and buying. Be sure and read the Pinned Post before asking questions! David may be able to help you.

Thank you!

[janegowest]

gbopp wrote:
I would go look at the TT, see what you think. If interested tell the seller you want it inspected by a RV Tech, then make the arrangements.
See if the seller is hesitant about an expert looking at the unit.
5 years with two large dogs may be enough for you to walk away.

The owner with two large dogs have been living in it for 1.5 years. No telling who with what lived there before.

One thing though...when we purchase from a dealer who has had a trade-in of rigs that have been lived in, they don't tell you anything, so how are we to know?

[gbopp]

I would go look at the TT, see what you think. If interested tell the seller you want it inspected by a RV Tech, then make the arrangements.
See if the seller is hesitant about an expert looking at the unit.
5 years with two large dogs may be enough for you to walk away.

[USAFBILL]

Maybe $ 10,000 after a complete inspection. JMO

[Mountain_Mama]

If you’re on Facebook and haven’t already, check out the FB page "RV Pricing and Values" before deciding and buying. Be sure and read the Pinned Post before asking questions! David may be able to help you.