Recreational Vehicles, or RVs, is a broad term used to describe a motor vehicle or trailer with attached living quarters. With the rising costs of flights and hotels, many people have switched to RVs to travel and vacation around the country without breaking the bank. While the experience of living in an RV is fabulous, the buying and selling process can be quite stress-inducing, with too many aspects to watch out for.

RV valuation
Selling an RV can be as difficult as selling one’s home, if not more. The emotional attachment aside, trying to list the RV and find the right buyer can be a long process.

1. NADA RV value website
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) maintains an RV price book that many people consult to find the right price for their vehicle. The price ranges are listed based on the manufacturer, model, model year, and floor plan of the RV. To access this list, simply type “NADA value of my used RV” into the browser search bar, open the website, and get a value.

2. Resale sites
Just like NADA, several RV-specific resale sites also host their own RV value listings based on the RVs’ model, make, year, and condition.

3. Online marketplaces
RVs can also be sold on general online marketplaces, where people buy and sell privately. This gives individuals an opportunity to interact directly with their buyers and gain a better understanding of the sale process. It also gives one a realistic image of what people are willing to pay for their RV, enabling sellers to make a well-informed decision.

4. Professional appraisal companies
Those keen on getting professional insight into the value of their RV must consider approaching a professional appraisal company. Since they are not directly involved in the process as resellers, they are in a better position to offer an unbiased opinion regarding the true value of the RV. This can be a superb idea for high-end vehicles or those designed with retrofits that do not receive any online compensation.

5. Local dealerships
One can also choose to drive their RV to a local dealership and ask for a professional opinion regarding its value. This service will most likely be free compared to those provided by a professional appraiser. Additionally, the local dealership may also be willing to make a more lucrative offer for those interested in selling or exchanging their RV on the spot. However, it is important to note that each dealership works differently, so it is always a good idea to ask about the offers they are willing to provide, such as consignments, trade-in value, sales, etc.

Factors that determine the worth of an RV
Whichever path one decides to take, one must recognize that the value of their used RV is contingent on certain factors. Broadly, these are:

1. Model, age, mileage, and condition of the RV
Some RVs hold their value better than others, which is why they will sell for more than their counterparts.

Please remember that the condition of the RV is also a crucial factor here. To ensure that the camper is in good working condition, one must:

• Perform regular oil changes
• Check the fluids under the hood every month
• Swap out spark plugs as and when needed
• Clean and treat slide-outs
• Check and replace the battery when needed
• Keep the wastewater system clean and working properly
• Clean the filters regularly
• Address issues with doors and window seals promptly
• Ensure a proper electrical connection from the RV to the towing vehicle
• Check the brakes and replace pads if necessary

2. The selling process
Going the private selling route will bring in more money as it cuts down on the fees/commissions that others may charge. However, by choosing this option, one is likely to invest more time and energy into closing the sale.

3. Time of the year
Strategically choosing the time of the year and the location of the sale is also important when selling an RV. Prices for these vehicles shoot up just before peak camping season (spring and early summer) due to increased demand. Time the sale right to receive a higher value for the RV.

4. Proof of maintenance records
Another way to get better money for one’s RV is by keeping a detailed account of its maintenance records. This will show that the vehicle has been well taken care of and kept in the best condition.

5. Cleanliness
A dirty RV will surely be valued low, as the buyer will assume it hasn’t been cared for. The simplest way to avoid this is to clean the camper out and make it spotless before taking photos for an online listing or driving it down to the dealership.