We will be purchasing an RV within the next few years. We have no experience with RV’s and the process of learning is both overwhelming and terrifying. I stumbled across your channel in my research and LOVE every one I have watched. Your videos are packed with useful information, your presentation moves at a good speed, and your voice is comforting. This particular video has been extremely helpful! There are many pros and cons you mention that I had not thought about at all. Any videos for newbies like us are always appreciated. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
That's awesome Brenda! I always enjoy hearing that my videos have been helpful especially for newer RVers. I remember how hungry I was for as much reliable information as I could get back when I first started RVing. So enjoy all the information on the channel and thanks for leaving such great feedback too. It's much appreciated!
I am just retired and was not sure on a new or used RV. This helped me a lot. As it will be long term and living in it a lot I believe I think the extra cost of a new one + warranty/insurance costs it will be better to suck up the extra cost. As I am not concerned about depreciation as I intend to keep it. And every used one I have seen at numerous dealers I found so many issues that I had to bring up first and they never mentioned. From awful tire wear so I would have to get new tires, Battery’s were very old, water damage under sink and bathrooms, sinking floors that would need replacing soon to torn couch material and torn mattress. And this was just the visible damages. Some was just cosmetic, but the cost to fix these numerous things on my own would have eaten any money I saved. And I am having to finance, so interest was going to be a little higher as would the monthly finance payment as they finance for less time then a new one.
Hi Albert. It sounds like you have a pretty good idea of what works for you and your particular situation. And you are correct that many RVs are not cared for and maintained as they should by their owners and are a money pit waiting to happen for the next buyer. Anyway, I hope that you get the perfect RV for situation and needs. Safe and happy travels to you!
Great video! I like what a friend said about buying a new RV. He said, "Negotiate like it is a used RV because that's what it is once you drive it off the lot".
I watch a lot of CZcams videos about how to do things and I’ve really appreciate your honesty transparency and unbiased Ness. I have a 2021 Winnebago Vista 29V and I’m very happy with it but I do see some of the cheap elements in new RVs of that class.
Thanks for the positive feedback. The Winnebago Vista is on my recommended list of gas Class A coaches, so you chose well. And you are right that many manufacturers in that category use both cheap materials and building methods to build an RV. I hope you have lots of fun adventures in your Winnie Vista!
The furniture is closer to the end of its life in a used RV but the enormous amount of money saved by avoiding the new depreciation would pay for the replacement of that furniture many times over.
I totally get what you're talking about Duane. We went from a popup camper to a motorhome a 39 ft. class A and we bought it new boy did my jaw drop when I found out how much money we lost in the first year. Grant it we got a deal on it but still, if I knew then what I knew now I think I would have done it a little differently. We have a 2012 Georgetown 360 DS and we love it and have decided to keep it but it is built a lot better than some of the RV's of today. I do all my own repairs so I save some money and I love working on it I always get a sense of pride when I'm done. Love your videos too they help keep me informed. Thank's Duane.
We bought a 22-year-old Fleetwood Southwind with 20,442 miles on it. Love that it does not have all the bells and whistles to go wrong. Plus all the interior wood is Solid hardwood. Flex steel furniture.
Isn't it nice to see real wood being used in those older coaches, Rick? The newer RVs are nice, but the materials used in them are often not as high quality. Enjoy your Southwind. It's a great rig!
Great deals are to be found when buying used. Have to be patient. We looked for over a year for a diesel pusher to find that gem. Stayed away from anything newer than 07! 2 reasons-cost and quality. We found an 02 one owner Newmar Dutch Star Spartan chassis that was stored in a climate controlled building when not used. 53k miles. $35k! Put about $10k into between having everything serviced (house and chassis) and inspected. New tires, ball joints, and a few upgrades like Haloview review camera system. We LOVE IT. I have subscribed to several YT channels for RV’s. Yours is def one of my favorite. Keep it up Duane
Sounds like you got a sweet coach Kenny. My 2004 Newmar Kountry Star DP is a similar story. There are some great finds to be had in those years if you are patient and willing to look. Thanks for the positive feedback and I appreciate your contributions to video comments too! :-)
RV Inspection And Care --Duane, have you joined the Facebook group “Newmar A Decade of Excellence 2000-2010”? Would be great to have someone of your knowledge on there.
@@kennyburns3338 Thanks so much for your comment Kenny! My wife and I are starting to look. It looks like an older Newmar is the way to go. Do you have any tips for how you successfully found yours?
The best option on this it’s rental if you use few time per year cuz you don’t have a pay monthly and you don’t care about the maintenance, insurance, or parking spot 😅
Thank you for your podcasts and videos. I am learning so much about Rv's that I didn't have a clue about!,! Which will aid me in my purchase of one and also save me a lot of money and headaches.
I’m very thankful that I found your channel. My wife and I are beginning our new adventure in RVing, never doing it before and about to retire. We are going to spend a year learning before we buy an RV and full time for a year or so. Then buy a home somewhere new as a forever home base to spend our happy half of life traveling and playing... your channel and advice is invaluable to me as a new RVer. Thank you sir.
It sounds like you have a great plan in mind Brady. If you can mostly fulltime while also having a sticks and bricks home to come back to from time to time, you have the best of all worlds IMHO. I'm glad that my channel has been helpful for you and I hope all of your future RVing dreams come true as soon as possible!
I am grateful for your information about purchasing a new verse old RV, C, Super C, and A Class. Gas verses diesel. Lifestyles of living in an RV. The shelf life I didn't find a video on. We would like to purchase a Super C but I am concern about much more up keep will I need to do verse an actual shop maintenence. Basically how more cost to upkeep this large diesel Super C RV living off the grid before having to take in for service. Thanks for all your hard work.
Hi Nathan. Yes, a diesel engine will require some regular maintenance and many RVers take it to a diesel repair shop or facility to get that work done. Honestly the cost of maintaining a diesel engine versus a gasoline engine may be a little more, but it will be quite a bit more to repair if something goes wrong, especially something major. I'm glad you are enjoying my videos and I hope you have safe and happy RV travels!
Good comparison of new vs used. I would add that for used if you don't fully understand RV's get a professional RV inspection before you sign the dotted line. It can save you heartache and $$$!
Hi Bill. Lots of folks have this same argument. :-) Hopefully the video helped you get a better feel for what's best for you. Safe and happy travels to you!
Seems like these are all good points. My take away, is that I should have the money for a new RV set aside, then use some of that money to get a used RV inspected. Another amount (once purchased) to fix any broken/worn things. Then upgrade the things I want changed. Extended warranty? Good idea. Put the leftover money in a special account to handle unexpected expenses. (there should be some) Now you can have a worry-free RV experience. At least, that's my fantasy.
Very helpful information for me . I was undecided to get an Winnebago Intent 31p 2021 second hand with 12,000 miles in amazing condition or to get a Thor Ace 29g brand new ….
I am in the process of getting (searching for) a class A Diesel pusher….this info has been invaluable as all your videos have been. As for the inspector …..I live in a fairly remote area and an inspector is probably not available although it would be money well spent…or saver!
Very nice. My aim is for a class c. And know nothing concerning these vehicles. I have a ton of questions but no answers. Harder being a senior and a vet with a disability. Your info is very informative, and I thank you. Peace from Texas
Us old guys are always tinkering with something allows upgradeing something LOL 😂. I did upgrade a older class A had fun with it and yes I learned a lot. Good video lots of good pointers. Thanks for a good video
Very helpful info for us who will be new to the RV lifestyle. We are torn and will use this info when making our choice. I think the tip on “owning the RV 10 yrs or more as long term, being a good reason to buy new”, was very informative. Also, the quality of materials not top notch in newer RVs was also very helpful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful Laura. Also, sadly many newer RVs have not been subjected to quality control measures that you would expect to see as a consumer. So the manufacturers expect you to find the problems in each RV over the course of the next year or so and have them fixed under warranty. Unfortunately, this is all done while inconveniently having to return the RV multiple times to the RV dealer during the warranty period. Most RVs more than a year or two old have had these bugs worked out of them by then. It's just something to be aware of.
Thank you so much for your professional guidance. I’m looking to purchase my one and only rv. (I’m too old to buy and trade! Plus I want what I want!). My aunt and uncle say buy used, my son says buy new (I agree with my son!). You’ve given me great info to justify my decision to my aunt and uncle!
Glad to hear that Nancy. One more suggestion - I recommend having an RV inspector go through the new RV to make sure that you get all of the quality control issues taken care of before you take delivery of it. Right now, many of the new RV manufacturers are putting out units that have issues. So protect yourself with an investment in an RV inspection. I explain my reasoning on this in one of my latest videos - czcams.com/video/GwJA4DrMH0Y/video.html
Thank u so much for taking the time to share ur experience & knowledge! I have decided to purchase an older Class C coach because of ur videos! I have found other videos saying similar things as far as the materials being better 10-15 years ago! Keep these videos coming please😂!
I'm glad my videos have been helpful for you Tammy. It's true that older motorhomes often have better materials and construction in them but always get an RV inspection to make sure that they don't have any hidden problems before you buy. Thanks for watching!
Very good information to prepare sellers and buyers! More importantly sets some expectations on what you'll get if buying used/new. Dwayne, 1/2 ton trucks are very popular right now and as an owner of one I'm considering buying a 5th wheel RV. The options for small 5th wheels seem limited for the tow capacity for a 1/5 ton. Perhaps there are many others in my position which may benefit from your knowledge on this topic.
That's a good suggestion Roger. Actually, I have some videos planned on dealing with weight management and tow capacities for towable RV rigs. I'll try to include this information in those videos. Thanks for the suggestion!
I didn’t about used . Good arguments on both sides . Motorhome insurance would b a interesting video. Being new I assumed was better on RVs but I c from what u say about those variables. I like the pre DEF models as I think they have fewer emissions problems associated with new emissions. I c them marked down like 30% on some new RVs . Is there a website that shows what price people pay for certain brands like they have for cars . Yes some old RVs look so dated . I c a lot of flex steel products in RVs . Flex steel home furniture used to b good before almost all of their production moved to China . Is flex steel still good on RV interiors? I also noticed a Tiffin RV that seemed to have very small furniture in it . It was so small I couldn’t get comfortable lol. The more I c your Newmar the more I like it what year is it
Yes, I plan on making an RV insurance video real soon. Thanks for the suggestion Mark. The best way to get a feel for the price of RVs is just to keep perusing RV trader and RVT.com After a while you start to get a pretty good feel for what an RV should cost for any given brand and year. On Flexsteel, our driving chairs are Flexsteel products and we like them pretty well. They seem to be pretty sturdy for us. But our Newmar is a 2004 too.
Lots of great insight. I would have never imagined that quality control scenario and the need to work out bugs on a brand new super-expensive RV. That's ridiculous. Sounds like paying a certified RV inspector to look at a brand new one would save a lot of hassle. Customer could locate the one they want, pay for inspection, apply a deposit, and make the dealer address the issues before ever pulling off of the lot. I'm so glad I watched this as I would be supremely annoyed with not being able to trust and enjoy a brand new vehicle of any kind, RV or standard passenger vehicle. I'm sort of in a different position than buying one that is mostly ready to enjoy, I'm painfully frugal and refuse to finance large purchases other than real estate. I'd like to get an RV like a late 80s or early 90s Winnebago Chieftain, something that has a steel and aluminum structure, that runs and drives but needs some love. Do you know of any other models that would be in that $5000 and under range and would have that same type of metal structural design with a gas engine? Thank you for helping us.
Thanks for making this video. I’m anticipating purchasing a class A in the next several years and starting to do as much research as I can. So much to think about. Might just pitch a tent!!
Glad it was helpful Mike. By doing your research now, you're doing what you need to do to make good decisions when you're ready to get started in a few years. I hope you find the perfect RV for your situation and needs!
Glad to find your channel... I have seen some horror stories from folks with new RV's and trying to get them repaired in a timely manner... lots of back and forth and it sounds like you get a handful of warranties, one for every component onboard. May be even worse now that most RV Service Departments are being overwhelmed by the volume of RV Sales. LIke the gently used (and inspected) path.... wondering if buying a 10 year old RV you may be refused entry to a lot of parks with a 10 year rule?
That's a good question Douglas. Our experience is that we have only been asked to supply a photo of our rig before arriving at the campground only once. And when they saw the shape that "Max" is in, they had no objections at all. My take on this subject is that the rule is mainly on the books to provide the RV parks with an excuse to refuse older badly maintained RVs. But if the rig is in good shape, you shouldn't have much problem with finding parks where you can stay. Of course, there are a few snooty parks that want to cater to the high brow crowd and enforce such rules, but they are very few and far between. I hope that helps.
One con of a new RV is they are junk, that are slammed together and pushed out the door with little to no quality control. Mine is a 2020, and I have spent the past 1 1/2 years fixing things every time we take it out. $54,000 piece of crap! I’m not sure if Class A motor homes are any better, mine is a TT, but I would certainly hope they are.
Hi R J. I know it doesn't make anything better but you are not alone in experiencing those problems with a new RV. Quality control at the factory is very poor right now in many cases. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
Really enjoyed this video and the 2 comparing diesel vs gassers. Wish I had found you before we bought our first level 4 MH new and 2 years later moved to a level 1 that was 2 years older but much better quality and less miles. I totally agree with all you have said, but we had to learn it all on our own. I have subscribed and will watch more of your videos. Thanks so much.
So glad the videos were helpful D. C. There is so much to learn about RVs and RV travel. I am still learning all the time. Thanks for subbing the channel and leaving such a positive comment!
My end goal is to have a theatrical piece. Like a pirate ship on wheels. I am thinking the smartest approach to that is a used one. Are there ones more ship like in design, like more wooden looking interior pieces?
I found this video very helpful. We’re planning on buying an RV, which would be our first time and are leaning toward used partly because we’re not totally certain RVing will be right for us. Do you have a manufacturer with a good reputation for quality of materials?
Actually I have produced several guides about the best RV brands to buy and you can find them here - payhip.com/RVInspectionAndCare I'm also glad this video was helpful too. Thanks for leaving positive feedback!
Duane, thanks for the great information. I've got so many questions but let me list a few. My wife and I are retired and 69 years old. We have owned two travel trailers and two fifth wheels that we bought brand new. Our current fifth wheel is eight years old. We are entertaining the thought of buying a class c RV for a couple of reasons. As we get older the fact of towing a huge RV behind and then the setup and takedown is probably going to get more difficult. The possibility of my wife having to drive the RV in case something happens to me is more likely and she will not tow a trailer behind her. We think a class c would help in both of these situations but as a reality check we probably only have five to eight good years left before we probably should get off the road. So I guess my question is if you know you're going to have to sell your RV in about five years, is it better to get the brand new one take the depreciation hit or get a used one and have more difficulty selling it when you do have to get rid of it? Thanks.
I understand your situation Andy, and we will probably be downsizing for similar reasons ourselves in 5 years or so. A Class C or a small Class A could be a good choice for better manageability as you age. As far as whether to buy new or used, there are advantages and disadvantages both ways. But as I mention in the video, buying a new RV is most likely financially best for those who plan on keeping it for many years, like a decade or more. As you mentioned, buying used saves you the big depreciation hit right off the bat. My experience has been that getting a quality and reliable used RV is very possible these days if you shop carefully and have a certified RV inspector go through it carefully before you buy. I hope that helps. :-)
Duane as always all the info is right to the point. One thing that bugs me is even buying new and living in S. CA the coach has been driven 2K by a driver getting a paycheck. The more deliveries a month a bigger check I receive. Hammer DOWN! I have a quick question as usual. SOLAR, have it in stalled by the factory, dealer or a mobile tech? Thanks SAFE TRAVELS
That's a good question Ron. I think RV solar systems are unique to what each RVer wants to achieve with their power needs. I always recommend that solar be installed by a professional because it's not an easy thing to do and if it's installed incorrectly, there could be serious problems. But whether to use a dealer or a mobile tech is an interesting question. If I used a mobile tech, I would have to have ultimate confidence that he knows what he is doing. And I would look for reviews and recommendations from others on either a dealer or a tech to be sure that I'm going to get a quality job. Solar installs cost a lot of money, so I would want to know that I'm getting good value for the money spent. I hope that helps.
A lot of RVers are retirement age like ourselves Julie. I have made several videos over the years that can be helpful for learning more about the lifestyle and about RVs themselves. Just watch as many as you can and ask questions as you go. I'll be happy to help.
I enjoyed your video very much. I would like to add for me a retired business owner who will buy used as I hate markups with a passion, that you or someone make list of a few pages asking what you are capable of when buying new or used. I mean like can you work on things like,,,,, and how big of down payment you can give. I will finish simply because of the tax benefits it will give me as a retired 63 yr. old, but I can see where everyone would not go that way and they will need advice on which way.hell charge for the papers cause they would have had to pay for the same education. I am a machinist and I still on my shop, it’s just the heart docs and my wife dare me to go in there however if most readers out there are are sharp as I am tiered dog knows where the spare keys are,,,,,,,lol,,,,,,,,then they can make things that the factory only know as PROFIT, not good work or craftsmanship. Thanks for any help you may give me or any other blue color worker, !!!!
FUNNY QUESTION, IF A FEMALE IN "YOUR " FAMILY WANTED TO TRAVEL ACROSS THE US SOMETIMES ALONE. WITH A 100,000.00 BUDGET AND SHE WANTS A CLASS A MOTOR HOME AND KEEP IT FOR LONG TERM. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMEND? NEW OR USED AND IF NEW WHAT RV MAKE MODEL PLEASE.
I have made some videos that may be helpful. This one is about used Class A motorhomes - czcams.com/video/zgVhvsbNSEo/video.html And this is about newer ones - czcams.com/video/Mab4U3dj6Bo/video.html I hope that helps.
Hi Paul. That's hard to say. It depends on the quality of the RV and how well it has been maintained. I have seen some 5 year old RVs that were pretty shot because of neglect and I have seen some 30 year old RVs that have plenty of life left. I do feel that pre-2008 RVs in general are the best for quality, strictly speaking though. Since then, it has been a race to the bottom as far as quality is concerned. I hope that helps.
Great video! Are there any RV inspectors in the Tampa Florida area that you would recommend? We are thinking of going to Lazy Days and General RV in April and definitely will be wanting an inspection. We are looking into used RV's.
Sure. Jason and Lisa Carletti are Master Certified Inspectors in that area. You can find out more about them here - rvservicegroup.com/member-information/?uid=1324
My husband and I are looking to buy our first RV. He is leaning towards a new Class A type as for me I think a used one would be more cost-effective. You made very good points on both sides and so I've shared this video with him to watch. Do you have any videos on the compost toilet system? How much would the average RV inspector cost?
Hi Stephanie. I don't have any videos on composting toilets now but I'm sure I will be making one in the future. As far as RV inspection costs, they can vary quite a bit between individual inspectors, but the average for most rigs seems to fall between $500 - $900 for the inspectors that I know. I hope that helps.
Hi Dan. Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with. As far as prices are concerned, I covered that in this video - czcams.com/video/epTXDS96kZE/video.html
Hi Jon. RV appliances like refrigerators, heaters, water heaters, air conditioners, etc. are all very specialized because of the need to be mobile and lightweight. So you will find these mainly at RV stores like Camping World, or online. However, one appliance that many are choosing to buy otherwise these days is some residential refrigerators. But they have limited applications for RV camping and you have to set up your RV power management to accommodate them.
Really enjoy your videos Duane! My wife and I are first time RV'ers, in our early 60's and found nearby, a 2011 Jayco Melbourne 29D, with less than 14K miles, on craigslist at a great price per NADA. The seller, in his 70's could not travel anymore do to health. I didn't get an inspection feeling the seller was very honest about the condition. Everything works, looks fantastic and have not had any issues as yet. Are there any issues that you've experienced, I should be looking for with this particular model? Thanks and keep the videos coming!
Hi Michael and Donna. It sounds like you found a real gem of an RV. There are those RVs out there that have been pampered since new, but they are not always easy to find. I am not aware of any specific major issues with the RV you mentioned. Since it is 9 years old, I would recommend that you have a fluid analysis performed just to be sure that everything is ok with your engine and drivetrain. You can do it yourself and it will be a great benchmark to start with. Also, be sure that the tires are within 6 years of their manufacture date. Many RVers who seldom drive their RV don't feel the need to replace the tires when they age out because they think it still has good tread left. But RV tires often age out before they wear out. So be sure to check that. Also, make an inspection of the roof seals and make sure that there are no sealant issues where water could get in. Water leaks can be a challenge with older RVs. I hope that helps, and I'm excited for your new purchase. Enjoy your RVing adventures and thanks for watching!
That's a good question Linda. I think it's fine either way. If you don't trust the dealer to do the work right though, it may be best to get an estimate on the repair and ask for a discount on the price in line with that. Then get it repaired wherever you feel is best.
Thank you Duane! Good video. If buying used what would you consider a good "sweet spot" as far as how old the unit is, 3yrs, 5yrs, 7yrs, etc...? Know it may vary but what would be an average cost of an RV inspection?
Hi Ramiro. The best quality RVs are more than 10 years old. When the economy crashed in 2007 - 2008, the manufacturers started to cheapen up on the quality of materials and it has continued. As far as depreciation is concerned, if you buy about 5 years old, the major depreciation hit should be over. From there on, the RV will still depreciate each year, but at a much smaller amount. RV inspections depend on what size rig and what kind of RV it is, as well as what the individual inspector charges, but overall they usually fall in the $550 - $850 range for the inspection alone. I hope that helps.
Hi Stan. Of course, in that comparison, I would have to say Newell is a much better coach. But that's because motorhome manufacturers like Newell, Foretravel and Marathon Prevost, are really in a class of their own. They are low production, high-dollar RV builders. So it's not really fair to compare them with higher production brands like Tiffin or Newmar who build for a completely different buyer. So if you have the money to buy one of the higher end Class A brands, go for it. They really are incredible!
Great job, Duane. I've decided to buy a used RV. Your points hit the nail on the head. Now I just have to find the one I'm looking for at the price I'm willing to pay. I'm in Texas. Although there are plenty of dealerships that sell 'used' here I see many ads (private and dealerships) in Florida and California. How would you recommend considering them? Or, should I just stick here locally? Thanks again.
Well, that's a great question. I know a lot of people who have searched throughout the country for the RV they want. But believe me, pictures do not always tell a correct story. I found that many of the RVs I looked at online did not look nearly as good in person. So if you have to fly out to wherever the RV is located to personally look it over, that could be an expensive proposition if you don't find the right RV right away. Personally, I would only pay to inspect a used RV that has already passed my own standards as one that I would consider living in. So for me, I stuck to only local RVs for sale that I could personally visit and go through. Of course, it helped that I was in Florida and as you say, there are a lot of used RVs available there. But it still took me a while to find the one I wanted. There are advantages to be had though if you are patient and take your time in the buying process. Good used RVs can be found almost anywhere. I hope that is helpful.
Thank you for the great information. I am looking at used, 2017 or newer. I am seeing some prices that exceed the cost of buying a new one. Even NADA's average retail of a 2019 MH is not 20 - 30% lower than the new selling price (If I use the MSRP I would agree). I haven't attempted any negotiating yet - are these elevated prices wishful thinking of the seller? If not, is it a covid influenced market due to the "shelter in place". If that's the case is this a crazy time to buy? The used inventory for the MH we targeted is low - Tiffin Allegro RED 33aa.
Covid has had a huge impact on RV sales this year Laura. On both the new and used sides of RV sales. Of course, when demand fast outpaces the supply, it's inevitable that prices will go up. That means that it is currently a seller's market. Although there may not be as many great deals available in the present, they can still be had if you look hard enough. It sounds like you are already doing it, but just do your best to know what the going price is for any particular RV that you are looking for before you begin negotiating. And take your time. Find the deal that you want, even if it means that you have to walk away from some other deals in the meantime. Right now is a good time to shop before the RVing season goes back into full swing again starting in March. I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
Yes what does it normally cost to have someone like you go over a used RV and if you are in a different state then I am then how does that all work thanks
Hi Paul. RV inspections vary in cost depending on the RV inspector, but most inspections will cost somewhere between $550 - $850. All NRVIA certified RV inspectors are trained to perform a high quality inspection, so I recommend that you visit nrvia.org and click on the link for "Find An Inspector" at the top of the page. Make a search for your area and it will bring up a list of local certified inspectors to choose from. Always select a Level 2 certified inspector.
Hello Duane, Thank you for another great video. I would like to know are there any charts available to see the average life expectancy of rv appliances (refrigerator, stove/oven, water heater, furnace, a/c, generator ect...)? Second question, is there anyway to inspect the fresh water holding tank to see it hasn't been fouled so it doesn't provide good drinking water? Third question, what is the life expectancy of rv slideout motors and are they very expensive/hard to replace?
Hi Ronald. RV fridges and furnaces tend to last about 12-15 years before needing replacement and ACs can last even longer. If you care for a water heater and do the correct maintenance on them they can go a very long time. But I don't know of any chart about the life cycles of RV appliances. If someone knows of something along that line please post it here for our benefit. The fresh water tank should be sanitized about once a year just to make sure that it is not contaminated. There are plenty of web articles and videos on how to do that. And as far as slideout motors, it's hard to say how long they last as there are several different kinds of slide mechanisms in use. But any major slideout issue is probably going to require a professional to repair. The cost could be $1000 - $3000 per slide or even more on some high end units.
Hello. Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm the first time buyer and I wonder if there is a good season to buy an RV (cost-wise). I live in Canada and I assume the prices get lower at the end of the season? Considering both new and used options at the moment. Thank you!
I tend to notice in general that often prices start to favor the buyer more so than the seller as the RVing season starts to wind down. But honestly, good buys can be had almost anytime if you just keep on the lookout for them.
Thanks - I agree with your points. Good video. It looks like Carfax does not cover motorhome even though they are Fords. You did not mention, but do you recommend fluid testing for oil and transmission fluids?
@@MulligansBlog I have personally used CarFax to get reports on motorhomes in the past so I'm not sure why they were not able to provide information for you now. Thanks for bringing that to my attention and I'll look into it. But I do highly recommend getting a fluid analysis done before purchasing a used motorhome, especially an older one. I covered that subject in this video - czcams.com/video/abNq3Z8HUJo/video.html I hope that helps.
Great question Hans. Just visit nrvia.org and click on the link for "Find An Inspector" at the top of the page. Make a search for your area and it will bring up a list of local certified inspectors to choose from. Always select a Level 2 certified inspector.
I get asked that a lot Spyder, so I made a video about it. You can view it here - czcams.com/video/BxVViCeFCqU/video.html The video explains some things that you need to know about the inspection process too.
@@user-by2uz1oh4e As I said in my last comment, any Newmar product is worth consideration for buying. Just be sure to have it inspected by a certified NRVIA inspector before taking ownership to verify that it is in an acceptable condition.
Whereas passenger vehicles are built using mostly automated methods, RVs are still mostly built by hand. So the quality of the RV you buy will depend a lot on the crew that worked on it. And many RV manufacturers struggle with getting consistent quality from their assembly lines. On top of that, Covid has caused all kinds of workforce headaches for almost all of the industry RV builders. So these days, new RVs are coming to the dealer with lots of problems and some of them may even be hard to find. But over the course of a year, most of them can be worked out. However, if new RV buyers would hire an RV inspector before taking delivery of their new RV, they can often get the RV they deserve right away.
We will be purchasing an RV within the next few years. We have no experience with RV’s and the process of learning is both overwhelming and terrifying. I stumbled across your channel in my research and LOVE every one I have watched. Your videos are packed with useful information, your presentation moves at a good speed, and your voice is comforting. This particular video has been extremely helpful! There are many pros and cons you mention that I had not thought about at all. Any videos for newbies like us are always appreciated. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
That's awesome Brenda! I always enjoy hearing that my videos have been helpful especially for newer RVers. I remember how hungry I was for as much reliable information as I could get back when I first started RVing. So enjoy all the information on the channel and thanks for leaving such great feedback too. It's much appreciated!
Me here !
I am just retired and was not sure on a new or used RV. This helped me a lot. As it will be long term and living in it a lot I believe I think the extra cost of a new one + warranty/insurance costs it will be better to suck up the extra cost. As I am not concerned about depreciation as I intend to keep it. And every used one I have seen at numerous dealers I found so many issues that I had to bring up first and they never mentioned. From awful tire wear so I would have to get new tires, Battery’s were very old, water damage under sink and bathrooms, sinking floors that would need replacing soon to torn couch material and torn mattress. And this was just the visible damages. Some was just cosmetic, but the cost to fix these numerous things on my own would have eaten any money I saved. And I am having to finance, so interest was going to be a little higher as would the monthly finance payment as they finance for less time then a new one.
Hi Albert. It sounds like you have a pretty good idea of what works for you and your particular situation. And you are correct that many RVs are not cared for and maintained as they should by their owners and are a money pit waiting to happen for the next buyer. Anyway, I hope that you get the perfect RV for situation and needs. Safe and happy travels to you!
Great video! I like what a friend said about buying a new RV. He said, "Negotiate like it is a used RV because that's what it is once you drive it off the lot".
Ha!Ha! So true Roy. RVs, like automobiles are not an investment. They are a depreciating asset from day one.
I watch a lot of CZcams videos about how to do things and I’ve really appreciate your honesty transparency and unbiased Ness. I have a 2021 Winnebago Vista 29V and I’m very happy with it but I do see some of the cheap elements in new RVs of that class.
Thanks for the positive feedback. The Winnebago Vista is on my recommended list of gas Class A coaches, so you chose well. And you are right that many manufacturers in that category use both cheap materials and building methods to build an RV. I hope you have lots of fun adventures in your Winnie Vista!
The furniture is closer to the end of its life in a used RV but the enormous amount of money saved by avoiding the new depreciation would pay for the replacement of that furniture many times over.
That's a good point Doug, and worth considering when buying an RV. Thanks for commenting on this video!
I totally get what you're talking about Duane. We went from a popup camper to a motorhome a 39 ft. class A and we bought it new boy did my jaw drop when I found out how much money we lost in the first year. Grant it we got a deal on it but still, if I knew then what I knew now I think I would have done it a little differently. We have a 2012 Georgetown 360 DS and we love it and have decided to keep it but it is built a lot better than some of the RV's of today. I do all my own repairs so I save some money and I love working on it I always get a sense of pride when I'm done. Love your videos too they help keep me informed. Thank's Duane.
Hi John. Yes, that initial hit on new RVs can be pretty sobering when it's time to sell. Thanks for watching my videos and supporting the channel!
We bought a 22-year-old Fleetwood Southwind with 20,442 miles on it. Love that it does not have all the bells and whistles to go wrong. Plus all the interior wood is Solid hardwood. Flex steel furniture.
Isn't it nice to see real wood being used in those older coaches, Rick? The newer RVs are nice, but the materials used in them are often not as high quality. Enjoy your Southwind. It's a great rig!
It's true, he reads and responds to comments quickly. I asked a question on another video and he got back to me in less than 24 hours!
Thanks for the positive feedback Brigand231. I can't always respond right away, but I try to answer questions and comments as quickly as I can.
thank you for your comments
I'm glad you enjoyed the video Yves. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Which is the best place to shop a used class B R V ?
Great deals are to be found when buying used. Have to be patient. We looked for over a year for a diesel pusher to find that gem. Stayed away from anything newer than 07! 2 reasons-cost and quality. We found an 02 one owner Newmar Dutch Star Spartan chassis that was stored in a climate controlled building when not used. 53k miles. $35k! Put about $10k into between having everything serviced (house and chassis) and inspected. New tires, ball joints, and a few upgrades like Haloview review camera system. We LOVE IT. I have subscribed to several YT channels for RV’s. Yours is def one of my favorite. Keep it up Duane
Sounds like you got a sweet coach Kenny. My 2004 Newmar Kountry Star DP is a similar story. There are some great finds to be had in those years if you are patient and willing to look. Thanks for the positive feedback and I appreciate your contributions to video comments too! :-)
RV Inspection And Care --Duane, have you joined the Facebook group “Newmar A Decade of Excellence 2000-2010”? Would be great to have someone of your knowledge on there.
@@kennyburns3338 No I haven't joined that group yet Kenny. I'll look into it though. Thanks for the suggestion.
@@kennyburns3338 Thanks so much for your comment Kenny! My wife and I are starting to look. It looks like an older Newmar is the way to go. Do you have any tips for how you successfully found yours?
We purchased a used rev and have had fun upgrading and redo the unit.
You can save money by upgrading an older RV, but you can also learn a lot about it in the meantime too. I'm glad you folks are enjoying it Tim.
The best option on this it’s rental if you use few time per year cuz you don’t have a pay monthly and you don’t care about the maintenance,
insurance, or parking spot 😅
Good points. Thanks for watching!
Currently planning my first RV purchase. This video didn't make the decision any easier, but thanks for all the info!
I hope it will be helpful as you gain more RVing experience Justin. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your podcasts and videos. I am learning so much about Rv's that I didn't have a clue about!,! Which will aid me in my purchase of one and also save me a lot of money and headaches.
Hi Jan. I'm glad that my RVing content has been beneficial for you. Enjoy the information!
You raised my awareness on a couple of points.
Glad to hear that Errol. I'm glad that you enjoyed the video and that you left a nice comment too!
Thank you I lock on used one in flo
Thanks for watching and commenting too!
I’m very thankful that I found your channel. My wife and I are beginning our new adventure in RVing, never doing it before and about to retire. We are going to spend a year learning before we buy an RV and full time for a year or so. Then buy a home somewhere new as a forever home base to spend our happy half of life traveling and playing... your channel and advice is invaluable to me as a new RVer. Thank you sir.
It sounds like you have a great plan in mind Brady. If you can mostly fulltime while also having a sticks and bricks home to come back to from time to time, you have the best of all worlds IMHO. I'm glad that my channel has been helpful for you and I hope all of your future RVing dreams come true as soon as possible!
I am grateful for your information about purchasing a new verse old RV, C, Super C, and A Class. Gas verses diesel. Lifestyles of living in an RV. The shelf life I didn't find a video on. We would like to purchase a Super C but I am concern about much more up keep will I need to do verse an actual shop maintenence. Basically how more cost to upkeep this large diesel Super C RV living off the grid before having to take in for service. Thanks for all your hard work.
Hi Nathan. Yes, a diesel engine will require some regular maintenance and many RVers take it to a diesel repair shop or facility to get that work done. Honestly the cost of maintaining a diesel engine versus a gasoline engine may be a little more, but it will be quite a bit more to repair if something goes wrong, especially something major. I'm glad you are enjoying my videos and I hope you have safe and happy RV travels!
Very informative and important issues to consider. Some of Your info I had not considered till now. Thank you
Glad it was helpful Troy. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Big jump either way but new makes more sense for me thank you 🙏🏽
I'm glad you have your choice on this subject made. Thanks for watching!
Good comparison of new vs used.
I would add that for used if you don't fully understand RV's get a professional RV inspection before you sign the dotted line. It can save you heartache and $$$!
That is so true! Thanks for contributing Chimp.
bery good points still hard choices
Yes it can be. Thanks for watching!
Great information. Currently having this argument with myself. lol Leaning toward used based on current market.
Hi Bill. Lots of folks have this same argument. :-) Hopefully the video helped you get a better feel for what's best for you. Safe and happy travels to you!
Seems like these are all good points. My take away, is that I should have the money for a new RV set aside, then use some of that money to get a used RV inspected. Another amount (once purchased) to fix any broken/worn things. Then upgrade the things I want changed. Extended warranty? Good idea. Put the leftover money in a special account to handle unexpected expenses. (there should be some) Now you can have a worry-free RV experience. At least, that's my fantasy.
That all sounds good to me. Thanks for sharing your thought process about buying an RV with us!
Very helpful information for me .
I was undecided to get an Winnebago Intent 31p 2021 second hand with 12,000 miles in amazing condition or to get a Thor Ace 29g brand new ….
Personally I would recommend the Winnie. And I'm glad the video was helpful!
@@RVInspectionAndCare yes . After I watched another video of your channel definitely I ‘ll go with the Winnie …
Thank you Sir 🙏
I am in the process of getting (searching for) a class A Diesel pusher….this info has been invaluable as all your videos have been. As for the inspector …..I live in a fairly remote area and an inspector is probably not available although it would be money well spent…or saver!
Glad it was helpful Rick. I hope you find the perfect Class A DP for your needs!
Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge with us! Just looking because some of these are Awesome!
I'm glad that my videos are helpful for you Mary. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave such nice feedback!
I agree with everything you said!! I remember your video on the best 10 year old Class Cs and Class As...it was great!! 🤗
I'm glad my videos have been helpful. Thanks for watching and leaving a nice comment!
Very nice. My aim is for a class c. And know nothing concerning these vehicles. I have a ton of questions but no answers. Harder being a senior and a vet with a disability.
Your info is very informative, and I thank you.
Peace from Texas
I hope my videos will be a big help for you. Enjoy them and thanks for commenting!
This information is so helpful to me!!! I appreciate it!!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it Debra. Thanks for watching!
Us old guys are always tinkering with something allows upgradeing something LOL 😂. I did upgrade a older class A had fun with it and yes I learned a lot. Good video lots of good pointers. Thanks for a good video
Ha!Ha! Ain't it the truth! We love messing with our RVs. Thanks for the positive feedback Howard!
Very helpful info for us who will be new to the RV lifestyle. We are torn and will use this info when making our choice. I think the tip on “owning the RV 10 yrs or more as long term, being a good reason to buy new”, was very informative. Also, the quality of materials not top notch in newer RVs was also very helpful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful Laura. Also, sadly many newer RVs have not been subjected to quality control measures that you would expect to see as a consumer. So the manufacturers expect you to find the problems in each RV over the course of the next year or so and have them fixed under warranty. Unfortunately, this is all done while inconveniently having to return the RV multiple times to the RV dealer during the warranty period. Most RVs more than a year or two old have had these bugs worked out of them by then. It's just something to be aware of.
Thank you so much for your professional guidance. I’m looking to purchase my one and only rv. (I’m too old to buy and trade! Plus I want what I want!). My aunt and uncle say buy used, my son says buy new (I agree with my son!). You’ve given me great info to justify my decision to my aunt and uncle!
Glad to hear that Nancy. One more suggestion - I recommend having an RV inspector go through the new RV to make sure that you get all of the quality control issues taken care of before you take delivery of it. Right now, many of the new RV manufacturers are putting out units that have issues. So protect yourself with an investment in an RV inspection. I explain my reasoning on this in one of my latest videos - czcams.com/video/GwJA4DrMH0Y/video.html
Thank u so much for taking the time to share ur experience & knowledge! I have decided to purchase an older Class C coach because of ur videos! I have found other videos saying similar things as far as the materials being better 10-15 years ago! Keep these videos coming please😂!
I'm glad my videos have been helpful for you Tammy. It's true that older motorhomes often have better materials and construction in them but always get an RV inspection to make sure that they don't have any hidden problems before you buy. Thanks for watching!
So what Dwayne is saying is that stuff is just not made like it used too
Very good information to prepare sellers and buyers! More importantly sets some expectations on what you'll get if buying used/new. Dwayne, 1/2 ton trucks are very popular right now and as an owner of one I'm considering buying a 5th wheel RV. The options for small 5th wheels seem limited for the tow capacity for a 1/5 ton. Perhaps there are many others in my position which may benefit from your knowledge on this topic.
That's a good suggestion Roger. Actually, I have some videos planned on dealing with weight management and tow capacities for towable RV rigs. I'll try to include this information in those videos. Thanks for the suggestion!
Great and helpful information!
I'm glad you enjoyed it Jim. Safe and happy RV travels to you!
I didn’t about used . Good arguments on both sides . Motorhome insurance would b a interesting video. Being new I assumed was better on RVs but I c from what u say about those variables. I like the pre DEF models as I think they have fewer emissions problems associated with new emissions. I c them marked down like 30% on some new RVs . Is there a website that shows what price people pay for certain brands like they have for cars . Yes some old RVs look so dated . I c a lot of flex steel products in RVs . Flex steel home furniture used to b good before almost all of their production moved to China . Is flex steel still good on RV interiors? I also noticed a Tiffin RV that seemed to have very small furniture in it . It was so small I couldn’t get comfortable lol. The more I c your Newmar the more I like it what year is it
Yes, I plan on making an RV insurance video real soon. Thanks for the suggestion Mark. The best way to get a feel for the price of RVs is just to keep perusing RV trader and RVT.com After a while you start to get a pretty good feel for what an RV should cost for any given brand and year. On Flexsteel, our driving chairs are Flexsteel products and we like them pretty well. They seem to be pretty sturdy for us. But our Newmar is a 2004 too.
Great info that really raises awareness regarding these matters and decisions in an intelligent way.
So glad the video was helpful for you Michael. And thanks for leaving some positive feedback too!
S, always informative ! 😊
So glad it was helpful for you. And thanks for positive feedback too!
Lots of great insight. I would have never imagined that quality control scenario and the need to work out bugs on a brand new super-expensive RV. That's ridiculous. Sounds like paying a certified RV inspector to look at a brand new one would save a lot of hassle. Customer could locate the one they want, pay for inspection, apply a deposit, and make the dealer address the issues before ever pulling off of the lot. I'm so glad I watched this as I would be supremely annoyed with not being able to trust and enjoy a brand new vehicle of any kind, RV or standard passenger vehicle. I'm sort of in a different position than buying one that is mostly ready to enjoy, I'm painfully frugal and refuse to finance large purchases other than real estate. I'd like to get an RV like a late 80s or early 90s Winnebago Chieftain, something that has a steel and aluminum structure, that runs and drives but needs some love. Do you know of any other models that would be in that $5000 and under range and would have that same type of metal structural design with a gas engine? Thank you for helping us.
Sorry, but I mostly cover RVs made in the last 20 years or so. But I hope you find the RV you're looking for!
How old is too old when buying a used RV cash
Thanks for making this video. I’m anticipating purchasing a class A in the next several years and starting to do as much research as I can. So much to think about. Might just pitch a tent!!
Glad it was helpful Mike. By doing your research now, you're doing what you need to do to make good decisions when you're ready to get started in a few years. I hope you find the perfect RV for your situation and needs!
Wealth of knowledge. Thanks for lending. Your videos are very well put together 👍 and your personality is wonderful
I appreciate your kind support. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Glad to find your channel... I have seen some horror stories from folks with new RV's and trying to get them repaired in a timely manner... lots of back and forth and it sounds like you get a handful of warranties, one for every component onboard. May be even worse now that most RV Service Departments are being overwhelmed by the volume of RV Sales. LIke the gently used (and inspected) path.... wondering if buying a 10 year old RV you may be refused entry to a lot of parks with a 10 year rule?
That's a good question Douglas. Our experience is that we have only been asked to supply a photo of our rig before arriving at the campground only once. And when they saw the shape that "Max" is in, they had no objections at all. My take on this subject is that the rule is mainly on the books to provide the RV parks with an excuse to refuse older badly maintained RVs. But if the rig is in good shape, you shouldn't have much problem with finding parks where you can stay. Of course, there are a few snooty parks that want to cater to the high brow crowd and enforce such rules, but they are very few and far between. I hope that helps.
@@RVInspectionAndCare Thanks for the helpful response... Just say no to those snooty parks..
Good info! This is helpful as we gather our thoughts/requirements for our journey in RVing!
So glad it was helpful Jay. Thanks for watching and leaving a nice comment!
Hi sir!
That was great information Thank you!!!
So glad it was helpful George. Thanks for watching and leaving a positive comment!
One con of a new RV is they are junk, that are slammed together and pushed out the door with little to no quality control. Mine is a 2020, and I have spent the past 1 1/2 years fixing things every time we take it out. $54,000 piece of crap! I’m not sure if Class A motor homes are any better, mine is a TT, but I would certainly hope they are.
Hi R J. I know it doesn't make anything better but you are not alone in experiencing those problems with a new RV. Quality control at the factory is very poor right now in many cases. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
Great video Duane. We chose New for many reasons you detailed, knowing we would eat the early depreciation.
Buying new is a great way to go for long-term buyers. Thanks for watching LOOT.
Thank you for your insight 🙏
I'm so glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching!
You always give great information. Presently looking for a R.V. Thank you.
Awesome! I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
Great information. We bought a new class A Tiffin and we are very happy.
That sounds great Tim. There's nothing like that new smell, right? And Tiffin is a great manufacturer.
Really enjoyed this video and the 2 comparing diesel vs gassers. Wish I had found you before we bought our first level 4 MH new and 2 years later moved to a level 1 that was 2 years older but much better quality and less miles. I totally agree with all you have said, but we had to learn it all on our own. I have subscribed and will watch more of your videos. Thanks so much.
So glad the videos were helpful D. C. There is so much to learn about RVs and RV travel. I am still learning all the time. Thanks for subbing the channel and leaving such a positive comment!
My end goal is to have a theatrical piece. Like a pirate ship on wheels. I am thinking the smartest approach to that is a used one. Are there ones more ship like in design, like more wooden looking interior pieces?
Not that I know of.
I found this video very helpful. We’re planning on buying an RV, which would be our first time and are leaning toward used partly because we’re not totally certain RVing will be right for us. Do you have a manufacturer with a good reputation for quality of materials?
Actually I have produced several guides about the best RV brands to buy and you can find them here - payhip.com/RVInspectionAndCare I'm also glad this video was helpful too. Thanks for leaving positive feedback!
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
Duane, thanks for the great information. I've got so many questions but let me list a few. My wife and I are retired and 69 years old. We have owned two travel trailers and two fifth wheels that we bought brand new. Our current fifth wheel is eight years old. We are entertaining the thought of buying a class c RV for a couple of reasons. As we get older the fact of towing a huge RV behind and then the setup and takedown is probably going to get more difficult. The possibility of my wife having to drive the RV in case something happens to me is more likely and she will not tow a trailer behind her. We think a class c would help in both of these situations but as a reality check we probably only have five to eight good years left before we probably should get off the road. So I guess my question is if you know you're going to have to sell your RV in about five years, is it better to get the brand new one take the depreciation hit or get a used one and have more difficulty selling it when you do have to get rid of it? Thanks.
I understand your situation Andy, and we will probably be downsizing for similar reasons ourselves in 5 years or so. A Class C or a small Class A could be a good choice for better manageability as you age. As far as whether to buy new or used, there are advantages and disadvantages both ways. But as I mention in the video, buying a new RV is most likely financially best for those who plan on keeping it for many years, like a decade or more. As you mentioned, buying used saves you the big depreciation hit right off the bat. My experience has been that getting a quality and reliable used RV is very possible these days if you shop carefully and have a certified RV inspector go through it carefully before you buy. I hope that helps. :-)
Thanks! Great information , especially for the first time buyer.
Glad you enjoyed it Jon. And thanks for watching!
Duane as always all the info is right to the point. One thing that bugs me is even buying new and living in S. CA the coach has been driven 2K by a driver getting a paycheck. The more deliveries a month a bigger check I receive. Hammer DOWN! I have a quick question as usual. SOLAR, have it in stalled by the factory, dealer or a mobile tech? Thanks SAFE TRAVELS
That's a good question Ron. I think RV solar systems are unique to what each RVer wants to achieve with their power needs. I always recommend that solar be installed by a professional because it's not an easy thing to do and if it's installed incorrectly, there could be serious problems. But whether to use a dealer or a mobile tech is an interesting question. If I used a mobile tech, I would have to have ultimate confidence that he knows what he is doing. And I would look for reviews and recommendations from others on either a dealer or a tech to be sure that I'm going to get a quality job. Solar installs cost a lot of money, so I would want to know that I'm getting good value for the money spent. I hope that helps.
Considering RV life. Informative
I'm glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting!
you are informative and easy and fun to listen to ..Please continue this channel i Like you
Thanks so much Richard. I really appreciate your positive feedback and thanks for watching too!
Very helpful. Considering RV for the first time for full time living in retirement. Your thoughts?
A lot of RVers are retirement age like ourselves Julie. I have made several videos over the years that can be helpful for learning more about the lifestyle and about RVs themselves. Just watch as many as you can and ask questions as you go. I'll be happy to help.
I enjoyed your video very much. I would like to add for me a retired business owner who will buy used as I hate markups with a passion, that you or someone make list of a few pages asking what you are capable of when buying new or used. I mean like can you work on things like,,,,, and how big of down payment you can give. I will finish simply because of the tax benefits it will give me as a retired 63 yr. old, but I can see where everyone would not go that way and they will need advice on which way.hell charge for the papers cause they would have had to pay for the same education. I am a machinist and I still on my shop, it’s just the heart docs and my wife dare me to go in there however if most readers out there are are sharp as I am tiered dog knows where the spare keys are,,,,,,,lol,,,,,,,,then they can make things that the factory only know as PROFIT, not good work or craftsmanship. Thanks for any help you may give me or any other blue color worker, !!!!
Hi Chuck. Thanks for your contribution and suggestions. It pays when you can make your own parts, eh?
Thanks Duane, this is very pertinent information for the hopeful future RV'er !
I'm glad it's helpful for you Hans. Here's hoping that you can start RVing soon! :-)
FUNNY QUESTION, IF A FEMALE IN "YOUR " FAMILY WANTED TO TRAVEL ACROSS THE US SOMETIMES ALONE. WITH A 100,000.00 BUDGET AND SHE WANTS A CLASS A MOTOR HOME AND KEEP IT FOR LONG TERM. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMEND? NEW OR USED
AND IF NEW WHAT RV MAKE MODEL PLEASE.
I have made some videos that may be helpful. This one is about used Class A motorhomes - czcams.com/video/zgVhvsbNSEo/video.html And this is about newer ones - czcams.com/video/Mab4U3dj6Bo/video.html I hope that helps.
WHAT WOULD BE A SAFE AGE LIMIT FOR DECENT QUALITY.
Hi Paul. That's hard to say. It depends on the quality of the RV and how well it has been maintained. I have seen some 5 year old RVs that were pretty shot because of neglect and I have seen some 30 year old RVs that have plenty of life left. I do feel that pre-2008 RVs in general are the best for quality, strictly speaking though. Since then, it has been a race to the bottom as far as quality is concerned. I hope that helps.
Great video! Are there any RV inspectors in the Tampa Florida area that you would recommend? We are thinking of going to Lazy Days and General RV in April and definitely will be wanting an inspection. We are looking into used RV's.
Sure. Jason and Lisa Carletti are Master Certified Inspectors in that area. You can find out more about them here - rvservicegroup.com/member-information/?uid=1324
My husband and I are looking to buy our first RV. He is leaning towards a new Class A type as for me I think a used one would be more cost-effective. You made very good points on both sides and so I've shared this video with him to watch. Do you have any videos on the compost toilet system? How much would the average RV inspector cost?
Hi Stephanie. I don't have any videos on composting toilets now but I'm sure I will be making one in the future. As far as RV inspection costs, they can vary quite a bit between individual inspectors, but the average for most rigs seems to fall between $500 - $900 for the inspectors that I know. I hope that helps.
very helpful video as I am in the market to buy my first RV. I haven't decided between a Forest River Sabre 37FLH or a TIffin Breeze or Allegro RED
Glad it was helpful Mike. When it comes to RVs there's plenty to choose from. Thanks for watching!
Great information. Thanks!
Where can you find a independent certified inspector and what kind of prices can I expect to pay for an expections?
Thanks!
Hi Dan. Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with. As far as prices are concerned, I covered that in this video - czcams.com/video/epTXDS96kZE/video.html
Where do you get appliances for an RV? Are they sold at big box stores like Home Depot?
Hi Jon. RV appliances like refrigerators, heaters, water heaters, air conditioners, etc. are all very specialized because of the need to be mobile and lightweight. So you will find these mainly at RV stores like Camping World, or online. However, one appliance that many are choosing to buy otherwise these days is some residential refrigerators. But they have limited applications for RV camping and you have to set up your RV power management to accommodate them.
@@RVInspectionAndCare Thank you!
Really enjoy your videos Duane! My wife and I are first time RV'ers, in our early 60's and found nearby, a 2011 Jayco Melbourne 29D, with less than 14K miles, on craigslist at a great price per NADA. The seller, in his 70's could not travel anymore do to health. I didn't get an inspection feeling the seller was very honest about the condition. Everything works, looks fantastic and have not had any issues as yet.
Are there any issues that you've experienced, I should be looking for with this particular model? Thanks and keep the videos coming!
Hi Michael and Donna. It sounds like you found a real gem of an RV. There are those RVs out there that have been pampered since new, but they are not always easy to find. I am not aware of any specific major issues with the RV you mentioned. Since it is 9 years old, I would recommend that you have a fluid analysis performed just to be sure that everything is ok with your engine and drivetrain. You can do it yourself and it will be a great benchmark to start with. Also, be sure that the tires are within 6 years of their manufacture date. Many RVers who seldom drive their RV don't feel the need to replace the tires when they age out because they think it still has good tread left. But RV tires often age out before they wear out. So be sure to check that. Also, make an inspection of the roof seals and make sure that there are no sealant issues where water could get in. Water leaks can be a challenge with older RVs. I hope that helps, and I'm excited for your new purchase. Enjoy your RVing adventures and thanks for watching!
RV Inspection And Care Thanks again!
Is it better to ask the dealer to repair or ask for a discount on the price ?
That's a good question Linda. I think it's fine either way. If you don't trust the dealer to do the work right though, it may be best to get an estimate on the repair and ask for a discount on the price in line with that. Then get it repaired wherever you feel is best.
Very nicely done!
Thanks Dan! I appreciate your positive feedback. I'm glad it was helpful.
Thank you Duane! Good video. If buying used what would you consider a good "sweet spot" as far as how old the unit is, 3yrs, 5yrs, 7yrs, etc...?
Know it may vary but what would be an average cost of an RV inspection?
Hi Ramiro. The best quality RVs are more than 10 years old. When the economy crashed in 2007 - 2008, the manufacturers started to cheapen up on the quality of materials and it has continued. As far as depreciation is concerned, if you buy about 5 years old, the major depreciation hit should be over. From there on, the RV will still depreciate each year, but at a much smaller amount. RV inspections depend on what size rig and what kind of RV it is, as well as what the individual inspector charges, but overall they usually fall in the $550 - $850 range for the inspection alone. I hope that helps.
Helpful
Glad to hear that Samuel. Thanks for watching and giving us positive feedback!
Very helpful!
Glad you think so. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your great advice 👍❤🇲🇽
I'm glad it was helpful Gerardo. :-)
What's the best RV Newell or tiffin
Hi Stan. Of course, in that comparison, I would have to say Newell is a much better coach. But that's because motorhome manufacturers like Newell, Foretravel and Marathon Prevost, are really in a class of their own. They are low production, high-dollar RV builders. So it's not really fair to compare them with higher production brands like Tiffin or Newmar who build for a completely different buyer. So if you have the money to buy one of the higher end Class A brands, go for it. They really are incredible!
Very good information.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.
Great job, Duane. I've decided to buy a used RV. Your points hit the nail on the head. Now I just have to find the one I'm looking for at the price I'm willing to pay. I'm in Texas. Although there are plenty of dealerships that sell 'used' here I see many ads (private and dealerships) in Florida and California. How would you recommend considering them? Or, should I just stick here locally? Thanks again.
Well, that's a great question. I know a lot of people who have searched throughout the country for the RV they want. But believe me, pictures do not always tell a correct story. I found that many of the RVs I looked at online did not look nearly as good in person. So if you have to fly out to wherever the RV is located to personally look it over, that could be an expensive proposition if you don't find the right RV right away. Personally, I would only pay to inspect a used RV that has already passed my own standards as one that I would consider living in. So for me, I stuck to only local RVs for sale that I could personally visit and go through. Of course, it helped that I was in Florida and as you say, there are a lot of used RVs available there. But it still took me a while to find the one I wanted. There are advantages to be had though if you are patient and take your time in the buying process. Good used RVs can be found almost anywhere. I hope that is helpful.
@@RVInspectionAndCare Thanks Duane. I'll keep hunting here locally.
Thank you for the great information. I am looking at used, 2017 or newer. I am seeing some prices that exceed the cost of buying a new one. Even NADA's average retail of a 2019 MH is not 20 - 30% lower than the new selling price (If I use the MSRP I would agree). I haven't attempted any negotiating yet - are these elevated prices wishful thinking of the seller? If not, is it a covid influenced market due to the "shelter in place". If that's the case is this a crazy time to buy? The used inventory for the MH we targeted is low - Tiffin Allegro RED 33aa.
Covid has had a huge impact on RV sales this year Laura. On both the new and used sides of RV sales. Of course, when demand fast outpaces the supply, it's inevitable that prices will go up. That means that it is currently a seller's market. Although there may not be as many great deals available in the present, they can still be had if you look hard enough. It sounds like you are already doing it, but just do your best to know what the going price is for any particular RV that you are looking for before you begin negotiating. And take your time. Find the deal that you want, even if it means that you have to walk away from some other deals in the meantime. Right now is a good time to shop before the RVing season goes back into full swing again starting in March. I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
Another great video!
Glad you enjoyed it TOA. Thanks for watching!
Yes what does it normally cost to have someone like you go over a used RV and if you are in a different state then I am then how does that all work thanks
Hi Paul. RV inspections vary in cost depending on the RV inspector, but most inspections will cost somewhere between $550 - $850. All NRVIA certified RV inspectors are trained to perform a high quality inspection, so I recommend that you visit nrvia.org and click on the link for "Find An Inspector" at the top of the page. Make a search for your area and it will bring up a list of local certified inspectors to choose from. Always select a Level 2 certified inspector.
Hi Sir, love you and your content. Is protect all product a good one for interior detailing of RVs? Thank you!
Yes, Protect All is a great product for any plastic or rubber surface in your RV.
Hello Duane,
Thank you for another great video. I would like to know are there any charts available to see the average life expectancy of rv appliances (refrigerator, stove/oven, water heater, furnace, a/c, generator ect...)? Second question, is there anyway to inspect the fresh water holding tank to see it hasn't been fouled so it doesn't provide good drinking water? Third question, what is the life expectancy of rv slideout motors and are they very expensive/hard to replace?
Hi Ronald. RV fridges and furnaces tend to last about 12-15 years before needing replacement and ACs can last even longer. If you care for a water heater and do the correct maintenance on them they can go a very long time. But I don't know of any chart about the life cycles of RV appliances. If someone knows of something along that line please post it here for our benefit. The fresh water tank should be sanitized about once a year just to make sure that it is not contaminated. There are plenty of web articles and videos on how to do that. And as far as slideout motors, it's hard to say how long they last as there are several different kinds of slide mechanisms in use. But any major slideout issue is probably going to require a professional to repair. The cost could be $1000 - $3000 per slide or even more on some high end units.
👍
Glad you enjoyed the video Daniel. Thanks for watching!
Hello. Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm the first time buyer and I wonder if there is a good season to buy an RV (cost-wise). I live in Canada and I assume the prices get lower at the end of the season? Considering both new and used options at the moment. Thank you!
I tend to notice in general that often prices start to favor the buyer more so than the seller as the RVing season starts to wind down. But honestly, good buys can be had almost anytime if you just keep on the lookout for them.
What should I plan to pay for a class C inspection? And since the RV may be in another state, what is the best way to find an inspector? Thanks
I made a video that helps answer those questions. You can view it here - czcams.com/video/epTXDS96kZE/video.html
Thanks - I agree with your points. Good video. It looks like Carfax does not cover motorhome even though they are Fords. You did not mention, but do you recommend fluid testing for oil and transmission fluids?
@@MulligansBlog I have personally used CarFax to get reports on motorhomes in the past so I'm not sure why they were not able to provide information for you now. Thanks for bringing that to my attention and I'll look into it. But I do highly recommend getting a fluid analysis done before purchasing a used motorhome, especially an older one. I covered that subject in this video - czcams.com/video/abNq3Z8HUJo/video.html I hope that helps.
Do manufacturers allow inspections at their facilities before it departs to the dealership?
I don't know of any manufacturers that allow that Don. They just want to get those units out the door and to the dealer asap.
Very helpful
Glad it helped Carlos. Thanks for watching!
Where and How do You find a Good RV inspector ?
Great question Hans. Just visit nrvia.org and click on the link for "Find An Inspector" at the top of the page. Make a search for your area and it will bring up a list of local certified inspectors to choose from. Always select a Level 2 certified inspector.
Enjoy your video a lot. Can I find inspectors in Canada?
What is the typical cost of a RV inspection??
I get asked that a lot Spyder, so I made a video about it. You can view it here - czcams.com/video/BxVViCeFCqU/video.html The video explains some things that you need to know about the inspection process too.
@@RVInspectionAndCare Too late, I saw it this morning, and said to myself, now that was perfect timing. Thanks it was very helpful.
Hello do you know if a
2106 Newmar Canyon Star is a good rv? Recalls any quality issues
Thanks
Newmar is definitely on my recommended list of quality RV brands to buy. And that would include the Canyon Star. Thanks for watching!
@@RVInspectionAndCare
I’m sorry for not putting down the model number but it is the 3710 I’m assuming this model is a good one to purchase?
@@user-by2uz1oh4e As I said in my last comment, any Newmar product is worth consideration for buying. Just be sure to have it inspected by a certified NRVIA inspector before taking ownership to verify that it is in an acceptable condition.
Why do I keep hearing over and over again; when buying new it takes one year to work out all the kinks? When I buy a new car, this isn't the case.
Whereas passenger vehicles are built using mostly automated methods, RVs are still mostly built by hand. So the quality of the RV you buy will depend a lot on the crew that worked on it. And many RV manufacturers struggle with getting consistent quality from their assembly lines. On top of that, Covid has caused all kinds of workforce headaches for almost all of the industry RV builders. So these days, new RVs are coming to the dealer with lots of problems and some of them may even be hard to find. But over the course of a year, most of them can be worked out. However, if new RV buyers would hire an RV inspector before taking delivery of their new RV, they can often get the RV they deserve right away.