If you’re ready to sell your RV because you want to upgrade to a bigger and better model, or your lifestyle has changed and RV travel simply doesn’t fit your needs any longer, it’s important to take the selling process step-by-step. A variety of considerations need to be taken into account to ensure you get the maximum value for your rig. Like some other assets such as cars, RVs do depreciate over time. However, keep reading for great RV selling tips that can help get you the most money possible when you’re ready to unload your vehicle.
Consign or Sell?
One of the first things you need to consider when you’re ready to sell your RV is how you would like to sell it. You can sell it yourself to an RV broker, you can sell it directly to an individual buyer, or you can consign your vehicle to an RV reseller. While both approaches have pros and cons, consignment generally comes with a lot of limitations. The consignee (the person selling the vehicle) will be responsible for cleaning and maintenance, will likely be under contract with once consignment company, and will need to pay a consignment fee or commission to the dealer. Selling outright, either to an RV broker or an individual, is generally the best way to get the proceeds from your RV in full and at once.
Determine the Value of Your RV
Whether you decide to sell or consign your RV, it is extremely important that you know the fair market value (FMV) for your RV before offering it up for sale or consignment. Fair market value will take a variety of factors into consideration, including:
- The age of your RV
- The make and model of your RV
- The RV’s overall condition (interior, exterior, and mechanical)
- Mileage
- Local demand/competition for your vehicle
You can start by checking how much similar RVs are selling for in your area. Be sure to check prices for used and new models so you can get a sense of the general depreciation rates for your type of rig. If you’re ready to take the next step, provide us with a few details about your RV and we will get back to you with a free quote.
Prep Your Rig for Sale
As with anything you’re looking to sell, it’s a good idea to spruce your rig up a bit before offering it for sale. This not only gives it some “road appeal” but it means less work for the seller or consignee in the long run. While a thorough cleaning and overall maintenance check may not increase the value of your rig significantly, it can certainly garner more interest in your vehicle and may get you multiple offers. It also helps to make sure you have all paperwork in order. If you own the RV outright, make sure you have your title with the VIN number documenting that you are the registered owner. If you still have a loan on the RV, have all the bank’s paperwork and a copy of your registration ready to review with the RV buyer.
Any questions? Be sure to contact us!