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Used RV Sales

Monday, December 12th, 2011

Used RV sales are sometimes viewed in a derogatory fashion. For instance, take the term used car salesman. When used in a stereotypical fashion, this phrase is not a compliment or endearment. The same stereotypical definitions and prejudices are often associated with used RV sales. That’s why it’s so important to consider the advantages of buying a recreational vehicle or motorhome pre-owned.

Here are some of the advantages of used RV sales as quoted by previous customers:

“I was surprised at how many used RVs were available. I didn’t feel limited by the inventory at all.” – Joe G.

“I thought that I would need to custom order a new vehicle in order to get exactly what I need, but I was short changing other avid RVers. There are a lot of RVers out there who know what they are doing. My favorite thing about purchasing a used RV was discovering that other RVers were more aware of the amenities and features that I would find uses for on the road than I was myself.” –Anna P.

“Used RVs are a fantastic way to get a lot more bang for your buck as they say. I was able to get a much nicer used RV than I would have been able to get if I had purchased new off the lot.” –Nick V.

“It may have been a unique experience, but I found the purchase of our new pre-owned RV to be a much more calm and hassle free process. When we purchased a recreational vehicle new several years ago the process seemed stressful and rushed and we left the lot feeling on edge. Buying used was much more pleasant.” –Ricky L.

“Used RV sales should be much more popular than they are. I don’t understand why so many avoid buying a used RV. Almost all of us buy ‘used houses.’ It’s the norm. So it’s just seems logical that used RVs would enjoy a similar normality. Everyone knows that buying new is always associated with higher prices and steeper depreciation.” – Abby R.

“I loved the experience I had with used RV sales. I didn't feel pushed or prodded. I felt that the sales representatives were helpful instead of pushy. I hate being pushed. They gave me the information I requested, and a bit more that I was unaware of and then allowed me to come to my own decision. I really appreciated that. I got a great price on a great RV, too. I also really appreciated that.” – Valerie D.

Don't ignore the advantages of used RV sales because you are too caught up in the “used car salesman” stereotype. Check it out and you’ll find that the advantages far outweigh any disadvantages. You’ll never feel the need to insist on purchasing new again.  

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No More Motorhomes for Sale

Saturday, December 10th, 2011

I see motorhomes for sale on every corner. I’m an avid watcher of RVs and motorhomes that are up for grabs. I’ve wanted to buy one for years. You might even say that it’s a lifelong dream of mine. I’m also an extremely frugal guy so it’s hard for me to make a big purchase. It’s especially hard for me to make a big purchase when my frugal nature is already questioning the expenditure AND my wife is not sold on the idea.

She could never understand the need for ownership. She was all over renting one every time we wanted to make a trip by RV. (I was obsessed with motorhomes for sale, but she was simply obsessed with avoiding RV ownership). Her reasoning always seemed sound and I always went with it after she started outlining the financial responsibilities and up front cost comparisons.

Recently we retired. I decided it was now or never. I invited my wife to come out shopping with me; I was getting a closeup look at motorhomes for sale in the area. I may also have mentioned that I was going to buy one either way. I’m not a totalitarian or anything, but I was positive that she would understand the difference between renting and ownership once she got inside the recreational vehicle.

I was right. She didn’t come with me for the shopping phase, but after I purchased a vehicle online and it was time to pick it up she was all ready for the trip. We flew out to pick it up and driving the RV back home was our first trip on the road in a recreational vehicle that we actually owned. We didn’t make it home for 4 months. It was the most liberating feeling we’ve ever had.

We followed the course home for a few days and then spontaneously decided that we didn’t need to be back for anything pressing. Instead of hurrying straight home we jumped from town to town. My wife did a lot of antique shopping. I did a lot of fishing. We spent more time sitting together and talking than we had in years. Along the way we outfitted our RV with all the little things that make a house a home. (Isn’t that what they say?)

My wife is now an avid supporter of RV ownership. It’s hard to understand until you’re in one of your own. It’s the difference between home ownership and frequenting a rental property. You can usually tell upon entering a residence that it’s a rental or that it was set up as a rental. It’s a similar feeling in rental RVs. We always enjoyed our trips on the road in random rented RVs, but we absolutely love spending time in our own RV. Another plus? I no longer feel obsessed by all the motorhomes for sale in my neighborhood. I don’t have to feel the pressure of keeping on top of the motorhomes for sale or wondering who bought them or for how much. I already have mine. And we are more than happy with our purchase. Thanks Pedata!

 

Sincerely,

Tom and Sue R. 

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Used RVs: Tips to Save Fuel

Friday, November 25th, 2011

 

Used RVs are often a choice made by individuals and families that are attempting to maximize a vacation budget or enjoy their retirement traveling with limited funds. Don't waste any money on fuel if you don't have to. 

Tips to save fuel with used RVs: 

  1. Recreational vehicles have water tanks. Traveling with them full will decrease your fuel efficiency because it will add to the total weight of the vehicle. Rather than traveling with full tanks keep what you need on hand. For instance, have enough water on hand in your water tanks to get to your next destination and no more. This will increase your fuel efficiency and decrease your overall fuel bill for trips. 
  2. Spontaneous travel is fun, but planned travel can definitely decrease your gas bill for trips. For instance, look for a campground or RV park that is centrally located so you can use it as a hub as you travel (by tow vehicle only) to various destinations on your agenda. Not pulling your used RVs to each and every destination with you, but parking it at a campground or “base camp” will greatly reduce your fuel costs. 
  3. Slow down. This tip holds true no matter what vehicle you are driving. Speeding is a bad habit not only because it may land you with a ticket, but also because it increases the amount of fuel you are using. 
  4. Use of air conditioning in your used RVs will increase the use of fuel. Traveling in the early morning or evening will often avoid this problem when traveling in areas with higher temperatures. You’ll run your AC less and still be able to enjoy a comfortable temperature in your motorhome while on the road. 
  5. Check your tires before every trip. As with any vehicle, tire issues can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. 
  6. Proper maintenance will also help you maximize your used RV’s fuel efficiency. Change the air filter regularly, have the oil checked/changed often, etc.
  7. Don’t pack things you don’t need, especially if they are going to weight down your vehicle. Not only will the extra weight decrease the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, but an over weighted RV can be dangerous on the road. 

Used RVs are fun, but they’re also practical. Make the most of both aspects and you’ll find yourself balancing in that perfect spot where vacation and travel are not only desirable, but also possible and affordable. 

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What is a Diesel Pusher?

Sunday, November 20th, 2011

What is it about a recreational vehicle that would make someone refer to it as a Diesel Pusher? While the diesel pusher is not an official piece of RV industry terminology, it has become surprisingly popular. Many attempt to use it to refer to recreational vehicles in a derogatory manner, but their attempts typically fail. Those listening are either well aware that all RVs do NOT run on diesel or that they far prefer the extra “push” that comes with a bit of diesel when they’re on the road.

In other words, those that prefer diesel simply prefer diesel. They are very rarely talked out of the preference. Others simply don’t prefer diesel.

Some advantages of diesel RVs you may not know:

  1. A diesel pusher will burn less fuel than a comparable non-diesel RV performing similar “work.”
  2. The life of your diesel engine is generally twice as long as the run of the mill petrol engine.
  3. Diesel engines can run on biodiesel (a easily synthesized, non-petroleum-based fuel)
  4. Diesel fuel is considered by many to be safer. It does not explode and does not release a large amount of flammable vapor.
  5. Diesel engines generate less waste heat in cooling and exhaust.

These are just a few of the advantages of a diesel engine. More and more are deciding to check out the possibilities offered by the diesel engine especially those in larger RVs.

Have you been pulled over to the “diesel” side? If not, you should check back. There will definitely be a lot of comments from diesel engine loving RVers to continue to talk you into it or leave your own comment on why you don’t non-diesel recreational vehicles. They can’t all be diesel pushers!

The history of the diesel engine is long and interesting. It definitely didn’t start with the recreational vehicle, but many do believe that the RV is a perfect application of the diesel engine, thus the popularity of the term diesel pusher. The advantages of diesel aside, everyone has their own preferences. And opinions on the matter will continue to vary from RVer to RVer so feel free to do some research, conduct some test drives and make your own informed decision. Whatever you decide, you’ll eventually end up out on the open road and as a lover of the RV that’s exactly where you were meant to be. 

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Used RVs For Sale By Owner

Saturday, November 19th, 2011

Used RVs almost always offer a good opportunity for a decent price cut in comparison to brand new RVs. This is just a general rule of thumb in the automobile industry. There will always be those who prefer to buy new, but there will always be more who prefer the “deal” of buying used. But buying used RVs for sale by owner brings additional elements of surprise and potential deceit into play.  

When you are considering purchasing used RVs for sale by owner, you have to consider that this is an individual you are dealing with. It’s probably not an individual you know. It’s probably not an individual that you will be able to get in touch with again easily. And there’s probably not a lot that you can hold this individual accountable for after the sale is done if you are to purchase a RV.

The used RVs for sale by owner offer just as much opportunity to get a good deal on a great RV, but they offer an additional element of surprise; a bit of mystery added to the mix. There’s nothing holding this “individual” seller back from saying anything and everything necessary to make the sale. It’s like the old country song about selling some ocean front property in Arizona. There is no ocean front property in Arizona, but if you know nothing about Arizona and you trust the guy doing the sales pitch to tell the truth I bet that property could sound really fabulous. You might even buy it.

It’s the same with the used RVs for sale by owner. It’s very hard to identify exactly what it is you are getting. You can’t expect owners trying to sell their RV to share every negative detail about their vehicle. They’re going to focus on the positives. They’re naturally going to avoid a lot of talk about what has been wrong with the vehicle in the past or what may be going wrong with it right now or what is about to go wrong with it within the month. These are things that private sellers will almost never share with you as the potential buyer.

On the other hand, working with a reputable dealer means that you have a company with a reputation to worry about. If you are careful you have a company with a solid reputation that they wouldn’t want to tarnish over a quick sale. You also probably have a company that has many high quality RV options to offer you. They don’t need to trick you into buying something that won’t work for you. They’ll have the choices that you need so the right option will be available.

It is better to buy used RVs from an individual or a dealer? It’s a basic question. We all know the best answer. Some of us will continue to answer it wrong, and some of us will get lucky and have a positive experience buying from a private seller. But in the long run, you’ll avoid the most hassles and negative buying situations by working with an experienced dealership. 

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Used RVs for Sale Today…and Tomorrow

Sunday, November 13th, 2011

Used RVs for sale are often represented as a unique opportunity to get a great deal on a recreational vehicle. You can get a great price when you buy used. And sometimes you can access an even steeper discount through temporary sale prices or promotions. But purchasing used RVs for sale because you are a rush to get into a RV at a great price is not the best idea.

Instead, you should be worried about getting in to a great RV! Any old motorhome just won’t do…you need to find the option that will be all you imagined. This is your recreational vehicle we’re talking about here. It’s not just another tired car purchase. Your recreational vehicle is your home on the road, your home on wheels, your home away from home.

How often do you find yourself considering a spontaneous house purchase because you saw a sign indicating “great sale prices” on homes in this particular neighborhood today only? That never happens. People don’t purchase homes spur of the moment. Such a purchase requires more thought because it has such financial, emotional and familial repercussions. The same goes for a recreational vehicle purchase. In some cases, the RV is going to be the full time home for the RVer, but even in cases where it will be a secondary home or a vacation home, it is too important to depend on spontaneous purchasing decisions.

Save that wonderful spontaneity for your road trips and next day vacations when no one expects you to be away from home. Save it for that moment when you’re not sure which way to hold the map and there’s a fork in the road and you decide to check out what’s to the left. Save it for the moment when you decide to start marking things off your “someday” list because you have nothing on the calendar for the next few days and there’s no reason not to hit the road.

Keep that spontaneity; it will serve you well in your time as an avid RVer. Just don’t waste it on a decision that calls for more than just spur of the moment desire and immediate gratification. Plan, prioritize, discuss, research…these aren’t dirty words. They will serve you very well in your quest to get into a recreational vehicle that will serve you well and get you everywhere you want to go (and a few places you’d never heard of before you arrived). There may be some used RVs for sale today…but you can bet there will also be some tomorrow. So don’t get in a rush. Take the time to consider your options.  

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RVs For Sale Are Looking Good For Thanksgiving

Monday, November 7th, 2011

 

Thanksgiving is on its way. And for many, turkey day is changing their perspective. RVs for sale are looking really good all of a sudden. Consumers who have been putting off their first RV trip are considering getting it done before it’s time to start traveling for the holidays. 

Why do RVs for sale suddenly look good to holiday travelers? It’s not just because a recreational vehicle could decrease the overall costs. 

  1. 1. Many see the RV as a reason to have their own “space” while visiting family for the holiday season. 
  2. 2. The RV is versatile. Owners can be out of town visitors, but still make their own contribution to the holiday meals. 
  3. 3. Mobility is key when visiting out of town family. There’s nothing more inhibiting than feeling the serious lack of vehicles that occurs when everyone flies to one household to spend the long weekend. Individuals and families who avoid flying and drive their RV instead will not get stuck without a car. 

Then there are those who aren’t traveling to meet up with family members for Thanksgiving. They’re traveling on Thanksgiving. Period. It’s a long weekend and it’s celebrated throughout the nation. There’s nothing like a long weekend to inspire consumers teetering on the verge of a recreational vehicle purchase. 

Having said that, don’t let the holidays PUSH you into considering RVs for sale if you’re not ready. It’s still got to be considered carefully. You don’t want to spend your holidays in just any old RV. You want to spend your holidays in the RV of your choice. 

When considering RVs for sale in relation to holiday travel make sure to consider your own personal or family holiday traditions that you want to continue while on the road. If you will be regularly traveling by RV during the holidays, you should make sure that the size of the RV you choose will accommodate any accouterments that you are going to insist on having around. Don’t attempt to set up a Christmas tree in a pop up trailer. You’re going to need something bigger. If you are used to creating a full Thanksgiving dinner and you don’t want to cut back in the least you’ll want to make sure that any RVs for sale you consider have a full kitchen and all the appliances you use for preparation. 

Regardless of your reasons for holiday travel, we hope you travel safely and that your holiday is a good one. Happy RVing! 

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Motorhomes For Sale

Saturday, November 5th, 2011

 

When looking for motorhomes for sale, consumers have a lot of questions to answer before they can pinpoint which option is going to be the right purchase. The very first question is the question of a new or used RV purchase. Many believe that they have to buy new in order to get what they want out of their recreational vehicle purchase, but there are just as many or more options when considering used motorhomes for sale. Some haven’t even considered which type of RV they’d like to drive, towable or motorized. And there are even those who aren’t aware of the ramifications of the size of the vehicle.

As we stated, the first thing to consider when going shopping for a recreational vehicle is: new or used. New vehicles can be custom ordered. New RVs are not pre-owned; they haven’t been “lived in” by another individual. But other than that, there are no benefits to purchasing new that you can’t also get with a used RV. Used RVs have the distinction of offering a lot more for your money. As is the case with any “new” vehicle, consumers lose money as soon as they drive a new RV off the lot. This conundrum doesn't happen if consumers buy used.

Next consider what type of RV you want to drive. As the driver, would you prefer a motorized vehicle or a towable RV? Motorized vehicles are prized for the ease of coming and going. There’s no need to unhitch or hitch up your vehicle. Many enjoy the unique view of the road that comes from the driver’s seat of a large RV. Others find the use of a motorized RV annoying. They prefer being able to unhitch and create a stable camp from which to work during their local travel. You also need to consider how many people will frequently be involved in your RV trips. How many people will need a space to sleep? Will you be traveling with “extras” often or should you just plan for your immediate family members or just yourself?

The expansive nature of online inventories means that you don’t have to “make do” with motorhomes for sale in your local area. You have access to the full variety of RVs for sale throughout both the US and Canada. So identify the RV you need and then go out and get it. The Pedata RV Center even offers a Fly and Buy program to make purchasing a recreational vehicle long distance even more affordable. 

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Used Motorhomes: “Must Have” Accessories

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

 

Used motorhomes seem to be hanging out on every street corner when you’re not looking to buy one. Then as soon as you start searching for a recreational vehicle you might want to purchase, you suddenly can’t find enough options. You suddenly can’t figure out exactly what you want and if you do, you can’t find it. Online used motorhomes and RV inventory selections greatly increase the likelihood that buyers will find the used motorhomes that will suit their needs. To do so, they have to be aware of the must have accessories.

Must Have Accessories for Used Motorhomes:

  1. Tool Kit
  2. Garden Hose
  3. Mosquito and Bug Repellant Lamp
  4. Level (for leveling the RV when setting up camp)
  5. Tire Covers (to protect from the sun when parked for extended periods)
  6. Surge Protectors for your Electronics
  7. Door Mat (keep dirt outside where it belongs)
  8. Window and Door Screens
  9. Extension Cord
  10.  On/Off Switch on the Shower Head
  11. Water Filter
  12. Spare Light Bulbs
  13. Lighter/Matches

This partial list of “must haves”  for used motorhomes includes some of the most popular items to keep on hand on the road as well as at your selected destination. Don't purchase any used motorhomes without first considering some of these must haves and how they would work into the RVs you are considering. Don’t leave on your first trip without decking your used RV out with your chosen "must haves" either.

RVing is a unique form of travel, but it’s also a very convenient form of travel. Remember that when you are considering used motorhomes for purchase and when you are planning your first trip. When outfitting your RV, consider the list of must haves, but also consider your own personal must haves. What do YOU have to have on vacation to feel that it is complete?

The point is, that no matter how “popular” the list of must haves is, you will have your own preferences, so consider the advice of the experts, but adjust it as you become more accustomed to your own habits on the road. Add your own favorites. It’s one of the beauties of RVing. It’s just so easy to change your mind and make the coinciding adjustments as you go. Consider yourself lucky. You not only get to take advantage of expert advice on how to get started quickly, easily and efficiently in your new RVing lifestyle, but you also get to have the last word.

Make changes as you go. If you miss playing board games with the family while on the road, bring some along next time. If you know you’ll always miss it, then stock the cupboards with some favorites. If you miss jogging in the mornings when you’re on the road, arrange your next trip so that you have stopping points that will accommodate your needs to get out each day and fit in a run. It’s your RV and it’s all up to you.  

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RV Sales: Is it a Good Deal?

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

 

Consumers are looking for the best deal. They love sales. And when you’re talking about RV sales the excitement only increases because it’s a substantial purchase. It’s one thing to get half off a box of cereal, but it’s quite another to access a good RV deal and see an extra low interest rate or 15% off the suggested retail price of a recreational vehicle.

RV sales can be a fabulous way to get a higher quality product at a lower price, but they aren’t always the only way to ensure you get more for your dollar and they certainly aren’t the best way.

The best way to get the very best RV for your purchasing budget is to try to work with a reputable, knowledgeable dealer with an extensive motorhome inventory and a history of offering fair prices. Do your research. Don’t assume you will be offered a recreational vehicle at a fair price. For instance, many dealers will claim they have the best price, but few will offer to beat competitor pricing. There are also many dealers and retail outlets willing to offer you financing, but they won’t be giving you good interest rates or loan terms. They’re strictly in it to win it and they’ll win at great cost to you if you allow it.

How do you avoid being pulled in by RV sales that aren’t actually going to allow you to get a good deal on a vehicle?

  1. Don’t assume every “sale” or promotion is a good deal. Look around and check. If they’re claiming their dropping the price of a specific RV a certain amount, it should be evident when you pull up comparable inventory from their competitors.
  2. Don’t push for the best price and then let the dealership have their way with your financing. You should know going in what general loan terms and rates are accessible in your market so you’ll be able to recognize a financing option that is going to hurt you financially.
  3. Don’t let a sale or promotion rush your decision. If you aren’t sure that a certain vehicle suits your needs then don’t buy it. This is a major purchase and you want to be satisfied with it for the long run. No deal is a good deal if you regret buying the item in the first place.

RV sales can be fantastic and we wouldn’t recommend that you disregard them entirely. We simply recommend that you treat RV sales like any other opportunity to buy a motorhome. Research and consider carefully so that you know exactly what you’re getting before the deal is done. 

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