Whom can you trust when it comes to buying an RV? There are so many options to choose from when it comes to purchasing an RV; self-contained motorhome, travel trailer, toy hauler, teardrop. Buying an RV is challenging. You should be able to trust an RV professional, a salesperson, right?
Being prepared to go to a dealership is the best way to make sure you’re not getting ripped off. In most cases, you will know more about the RV than the salesperson. Stick to your guns and don’t be swayed by traditional sales tactics. Forewarned is forearmed.
Let’s dive into the 5 warning signs you’re being ripped off!
Adding Taxes Right Before Closing
Beware when an RV salesman talks about prices of the unit and then adds taxes and fees right before you sign the paperwork. Research the dealer and read reviews. Have there been any complaints? Never sign anything unless you have read it and agreed to it.
Not Mentioning Additional Admin and Paperwork Fees
Know that there will be added administrative fees and paperwork fees added at the end. They are sometimes called tax, title, and doc fees. If you plan ahead, you can try to negotiate with the RV salesman what they will charge you in fees by getting them to lower the selling price of the unit before you arrive at the signing table, and they add on those fees.
Having an In House RV Tech Lead Your Inspection
You can have an in-house RV salesman lead your inspection, but considering they are the ones who most likely went over the RV when it came in, and the fact that they work for the RV dealer who is trying to sell the unit, he may not find anything of note. An RV inspection is more than just someone walking you through the RV to explain the systems to you after you’ve purchased the unit. It is a detailed explanation of everything in the rig and what has been done for upkeep, especially with a used unit.
Not Allowing an Unaffiliated RV Inspector
Having an inspection done by a third party before you buy the RV can cost on average $600, but it could be worth it. An inspector could save you from thousands of dollars in repairs after the sale. If you search www.NRVIA.org/locate, you can find a local inspector to help in your RV quest.
RV inspectors offer complete inspections, fluid analysis, seller’s inspection (so you know what needs to be fixed before selling), winterization and life safety inspections (for peace of mind that your rig is safe.)
If the RV salesman doesn’t allow you to bring in an unaffiliated RV Inspector, that is a big red flag.
Shopping During High Demand Season
Spring is when Northerners want to get out of the house and go camping, but caution, don’t buy an RV in the spring. You are not the only one wanting a new camper to explore the region or country because it’s almost camping season.
One of the best times to purchase an RV is during a major RV show, like in Florida or in Pennsylvania. RV dealers are looking to make a deal. Know what you want and make sure you are getting what you need from that purchase. Get everything in writing.
The best time to get a great deal on a new RV or used RV is fall or winter. No one wants to have to store an RV for the winter, and dealers need to make room for the next model year. You can get a great deal on a 2021, when the 2022s are released. In the fall and winter, kids are going back to school and parents are not taking as much time off. This means you can sweep in and score a motorhome or travel trailer that won’t break your budget.
RV Buyers Bootcamp Can Help
Still looking for more help and personal advice? Check out RV Buyers Bootcamp, produced by a team of RV couples who have 12 plus years of RVing experience. “RV Buyers Bootcamp will answer the questions you didn’t even know you had.”
- Walks you through the buying process
- Learn whether to purchase new or used. Discover which dealership to use, if any. Understand and stay within your ideal budget. And, finally, learn about financing and insurance.
- Helps you understand Different RV Types
- You’ve all heard the terms Class A, B, C, toy hauler, front bunk, reach through storage, but what does it all mean? Discover which floor plan is right for you and your family depending on how you plan to use the RV. Once you understand what you’re looking for, it will help you buy with confidence.
- Builds your Buying Confidence
- Knowledge is power. The more you know about buying an RV, insuring an RV, and taking delivery of the RV, the more comfortable you will be at the dealership, working with salesmen, and getting what you need after the sale.
In the end, when buying an RV, be willing to walk away from the buying table. If the deal isn’t a good one for you and your wallet, don’t hesitate to pass. You haven’t really lost anything, yet. There are more RVs out there. You just have the find the one that is the best deal, the right fit, and perfect for you and your family.
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