In an economy where people are flying less, driving more, and taking more budget-friendly vacations, you might think your used recreational vehicle would practically sell itself; however, that's far from the case. Buyers are more discerning than ever when it comes to motorhomes. If you're planning to offer your used motorhome for sale, what can you do to ensure a speedy sale that matches your price expectations?
Fortunately, there are quite a few easy things you can do before you offer up your used motorhome for sale that will have buyers lining up around the block.
1. Clean your RV thoroughly.
Cleaning your RV might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised at what some RV owners try to get away with when it comes to cleanliness. Put yourself in a buyer's shoes. It's really hard to imagine your family cruising together down the open road when you're confronted with a reality of peanut butter stains and cigarette smell.
Before offering your RV for sale, scrub the interior and exterior thoroughly. Open the windows and doors and let any smells dissipate. Focus on small details - shine the chrome on fenders and hubcaps, and have any upholstery steam cleaned.
2. Bring your motorhome in for routine maintenance.
While it's customary and understandable that you'll leave major engine repairs to the next owner - with proper documentation, of course - it's a good idea from a sales perspective to have the oil changed, fluids topped off, tires rotated, windshield wiper blades replaced, and any other basic maintenance taken care of.
RV buyers are a discerning bunch, and many have been known to pop the hood and have a look at the oil level. These kinds of small, good-faith upgrades on your part can pay big dividends when it comes time to close.
3. Make any small repairs to the interior.
Just as with the engine, you'll need to weigh the cost of any interior repairs against what you're likely to recoup at closing; however, low-cost repairs are usually a safe bet. Have a hinge door hinge that always squeaks? Oil it. Cabinet door missing? Replace it yourself.
Anything within reason you can do to make the RV more "move-in ready" is likely to increase the amount of interest in the vehicle.
4. Time the sale.
Just like many other outdoor and leisure activities, the RV market has distinct peaks and valleys which correspond to the seasons. The very best time to sell your RV is spring or very early summer, when kids are preparing for summer vacation, and adults are likely planning time away from work.
Selling during this peak season helps ensure you'll get top dollar for your motorhome. If for some reason you've missed the early-year window, it's often better to wait until early fall, when sales show a brief spike. If all else fails and you must sell during the winter months, be prepared to lower your asking price if necessary.
5. Advertise
Selling an RV is work. You can't just put an "RV For Sale" sign in the front yard and expect buyers to come knocking.
First, have high quality pictures taken of your vehicle - preferably during nice weather. Write an accurate, high-quality description of the RV, and have a flier printed that you can post around your area. Also remember that word of mouth is one of the strongest advertisers around - so don't forget to tell friends and family members that your motorhome is up for sale.
6. Go through an RV dealership
Dealerships can save you the time and hassle of major prepping, cleaning, and fixing your motorhome before a sale and then dealing with prospective buyers if you’d rather go that route.
Whether you’re selling your RV yourself or going through a dealer, use these tips to get the most for your vehicle
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