Real Estate

RVs for sale: shop smart and ride your way

Dealers offering RVs for sale may be the opportunity you and your family have been waiting for, but taking advantage of limited-time discounts may make you regret a hasty investment. Any dealer worth their salt will gladly answer your questions, so it’s beneficial to know what to ask when considering that big purchase. Miles per gallon, cost of insurance, and frequency of maintenance are just a few of the many things you’ll want to know before you head out to the lot.

While an announcement that a dealer has RVs for sale may be your call to the road, you may want to first consider what type of trip you plan to take. If you’re an avid traveler and value comfort, you’re probably looking for a Class A motorhome. These are the largest and most comfortable, with prices starting around $60,000. They usually come with several modern features like Wi-Fi, HDTV, fully furnished bathrooms and kitchens equipped for family feasts. Convenience, however, will almost certainly come with frequent maintenance and, of course, lower mileage per gallon. Consider these factors in your purchase before deciding on these mobile hotels.

You may not travel often, or you may just be exploring your options simply because a local dealer advertised RVs for sale. This could be the perfect time to save extra money on future vacations. Both the Class B and Class C are smaller variations of motorhomes for the less ambitious vacation. Class B travel vans are clever for long trips with a group of two or three. Like the A-class models, you can enjoy TV and cooking, but in all respects they are more compact and affordable. Some are as low as $5,000 and come with the same level of maintenance and miles per gallon as a full-size pickup. However, you will need to factor campgrounds that provide restrooms into your lodging itinerary and budget.

If your goal is the middle ground, you might be looking at class C RVs for sale. Typically priced in the $20,000-A range, this style manages to provide both space for larger groups and a few modern luxuries, while being affordable for a family looking to indulge that passion for trips. When you ask your dealer about this level, you can take a close look at the available bedding space. If used, think about the vehicles history on the road – a particular make and model may be cheaper and be known for having engine problems.

Your individual travel habits and needs should influence your decision no matter what class, make, or model you’re considering. The length of time you plan to travel, the size of the group, and the type of trip you prefer (ie, camping or a more luxurious experience) all make the difference between a van or an RV.

Recreational vehicles for sale can be a good investment. However, the true longevity of your purchase can be the real money saver. With every class of RV, buyers must balance their needs with their wallets. Taking the time to learn about gas mileage, repairs, and features and comparing them to your needs can help you get the most for your money.