Purchasing an RV is a big decision
-- literally. At 20 or 30 feet in length, an RV just might
be the largest item you'll ever purchase, outside of your
home. While there are many factors that should be part of
your decision, one of the first choices you'll need to make
is whether to buy new or used.
At Cruise America, we've found that a used
Class C motorhome is the best choice for would-be road
trippers seeking comfort and quality on a budget. Since
1972, we've sold more than 25,000 used RVs to happy campers
across the U.S. and Canada. If you're considering buying
an RV this year, it's time you learn more about the benefits
of buying a used motorhome.
Who should consider a used RV?
The short answer is... everyone. While buying new makes
sense for some RVers, most people find they don't need --
or want -- a brand-new model. If you're not sure, ask yourself
these two simple questions:
1. How often will you use your
RV? If you plan to live in your RV full-time for several
years, a new RV may be a good choice. But for most owners
who use their RVs a few times a year -- or even once or
twice a month -- a used RV still has plenty of life left
in it. In fact, a well-maintained, refurbished RV can easily
last for 200,000 miles -- or more.
2. How much can you afford? New RVs are quite expensive,
ranging from more than $40,000 for a small Class C model
to millions of dollars for a bells-and-whistles luxury Class
A. At a fraction of the cost of a comparable new model,
a used RV may allow you to purchase the model of your dreams
without breaking the bank.
What are the benefits of buying used?
A used motorhome has many benefits over high-priced new
models -- if it's well maintained and mechanically sound.
Here are just a few of the reasons you should consider a
used model:
1. Nationwide company with a reputation to protect and
a strong interest in making sure you are pleased with
the purchase. Cruise America depends on happy campers
to spread the word for future sales.
2. Does your vehicle come with a warranty or protection
plan? A well-maintained used RV should still have plenty
of life in it, but that doesn't mean it won't need care
down the line. The best used motorhome dealers will offer
some protection with your purchase, such as the 12-month,
12,000-mile limited powertrain warranty offered at
Cruise America. In addition, reputable dealers often have
partnerships with service companies, allowing you to purchase
affordable mechanical protection coverage during the sales
process.
3. What kind of maintenance has been performed? Before
you buy, make sure scheduled maintenance has been performed
on your RV. From tire changes and belt replacements to
major repairs, regular maintenance and care plays a large
role in how long your used RV will last. For example,
at Cruise America, each used RV we sell has been professionally
maintained since day one as part of our rental fleet.
4. Has the RV been inspected? There's nothing worse than
buying a used car and realizing the brakes are shot a
week later. Except discovering the same thing during your
first family RV trip. A reliable used RV dealer should
always offer a complete inspection. Here at Cruise America,
your motorhome won't leave the lot without our 110-point
bumper-to-bumper, tires-to-roof inspection.
5. Does the dealer offer financing or payment options?
Not only is financing an RV a major decision, but it can
also add unneeded hassle to your shopping process. Reliable
RV dealers should have financing options available onsite,
either through the dealer or through lending partnerships
with reputable financial institutions.
Buying a used RV doesn't have to be risky. In fact, with
these tips, it can be a rewarding, exciting experience.
Don't spend too much for a new RV -- make the logical choice
with a high-quality used motorhome.
Bob Caldarone is Cruise
America's Asst VP of Marketing. Bob joined the Cruise
America team in 1985 as Marketing Director. He has witnessed
1st hand the vast improvements in RV manufacturing on
both chassis and coach portions, making today's used
RV better than ever. In addition to marketing functions
at Cruise America, Bob serves as the company's representative
to the industry's GoRVing coalition and industry committees
charged with spreading the RV lifestyle message.
