What to look out for when buying an RV?
You have finally made up your mind: you are going to buy an RV on the used market. That's quite a decision and one that shouldn't be taken thoughtlessly, especially if it's your first time buying an RV. As with used cars and other vehicles, buying a used RV comes with some risks. However, it is also in the used market that often, with a little knowledge and after a good search, wonderful deals can be made. For these reasons, we would like to take the opportunity of this article to go a little deeper into what buying a motorhome entails and what you should pay attention to during the buying process.
Buying an RV: starting at the beginning
Unless you already know exactly what kind of RV you want to buy and where best to buy it, it's a wise idea to start by exploring the market. This is easier than ever these days, thanks to the Internet. Websites like Campersite.nl, Marktplaats, and Speurders.nl are full of all kinds of RVs, both used and brand new. By spending some time browsing websites like these, you can get an initial idea for yourself of the range and asking prices.
Especially if you have a little more time to make your purchase, visits to motorhome fairs and even large motorhome dealers can also be very interesting and informative. Think, for example, of the annual Boat and Motorhome Fair in Gorinchem, the annual Motorhome Fair Harderberg, or the annual Camping & Caravan Fair in the Utrecht Jaarbeurs, the largest motorhome fair in the Netherlands. That way you can also get a good hands-on feel of the different makes, models, and layouts.
In fact, there is quite a bit to think about when you go to buy an RV. Do you, for example, like to sleep on fixed beds? How many people on average do you expect to transport in the motorhome? What should be the minimum size of the kitchen? These and many more questions are all considerations that need to be made when buying a motorhome.
In fact, there is quite a bit to think about when you go to buy an RV. Do you, for example, like to sleep on fixed beds? How many people on average do you expect to transport in the motorhome? What should be the minimum size of the kitchen? These and many more questions are all considerations that need to be made when buying a motorhome.
Buying an RV: where and from whom?
Given the desire to travel and explore that the Dutch are generally known for, it is not surprising that there are a relatively large number of RVs available in the Netherlands. Earlier we talked briefly about the possibilities online, but at some point you will have to take the next step, which is to visit a salesperson. One of the questions that arises in this regard is: Are you better off with a private seller or an official dealer?
A major advantage of buying a motorhome from a dealer is that you can often expand your rights and protect your interests against the dealer with additional contract warranties. An example of an important and common standard warranty for used motorhomes is the BOVAG warranty. In the case of warranties, it is important that you check how long the warranties are in effect and whether you can extend them for a fee if necessary.
By buying an RV from a private seller, you cannot normally count on the presence of such warranties. If something really turns out to be fundamentally wrong with the vehicle after purchase, you can try to hold the seller liable, but this often has little success. This is not to say that buying an RV from an individual is never a good idea, quite the contrary, but we raise this point so that you are aware of it. In addition, in the case of a private transaction, signing a solid sales contract can already provide a bit more security.
Buying an RV: What else should definitely be considered?
As we wrote a little earlier, it may seem that buying an RV is quite involved, especially for people who have never purchased an RV before. However, it doesn't have to be that complicated at all, except that we highly recommend doing thorough research before making a purchase decision. For this reason, we thought it would be both helpful and interesting to conclude this piece with some tips for buying an RV on the used market.
Have an independent inspection performed before purchasing
Unless you have sufficient knowledge and experience in purchasing used motorhomes yourself, it is recommended that you already have the motorhome you are interested in inspected before you buy it. You can have this done at a professional external party, such as the German DEKRA. The appearance of a motorhome can often be assessed by a layman, but technical defects are generally more difficult to identify. By having a professional inspection performed prior to the purchase, you can ensure that you will not have any unpleasant surprises after your purchase.
Should I check that the vehicle has no moisture problems?
RVs move around a lot, which can sometimes lead to moisture problems. In some cases, these problems are easy and quick to spot, such as by moisture stains on the floors and ceiling. In other cases, however, these problems are much more difficult to detect, but no less serious. One of the big reasons for this tip is the danger of mold, both for the health of the occupants and the reliability of the vehicle. With the help of a thorough and professional moisture measurement, you can also detect invisible moisture problems in the corners of the floor, in the bathroom, or in the cabinets.
Keeping other costs in mind?
Buying an RV is fun and exciting, but it is important to remember that there will be a lot of costs besides the purchase itself. These can range from the cost of fuel and general maintenance to required fuses and any overnight camping and other expenses. Be sure you can afford such costs before buying an RV.
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