3 Tips for Buying a Secondhand Motorhome
Any larger purchase you are intending to make should involve plenty of research, but when looking for a road vehicle to transport you, your partner, your children and no doubt, your family dog, such precious cargo requires a lot of time and thought attached.
Naturally, you are likely to benefit significantly when it comes to your savings if you decide to invest in a secondhand motorhome over a brand-new, custom-made vehicle straight off the forecourt.
With that in mind, here are three tips for buying a secondhand motorhome.
1. Set a Budget and Stick to it
When deciding on your motorhome budget, remember that not only do you need to think about the cost of the vehicle itself, but also the core running costs. For example, for larger and more powerful motorhomes, you are going to be spending much more on fuel.
In addition, even though if you are purchasing from a reputable and renowned supplier, there will be various guarantees attached, you should still also save for a contingency fund, for unexpected wear and tear repairs.
Once your budget is set, even if you fall in love with a larger, newer and more aesthetically impressive motorhome, make sure you do not deviate from your budget, as if you do, you are setting yourself up for financial problems in the future.
2. Conduct a Thorough Exterior Check
It takes time, dedication and of course, a handsome amount of savings in your account to find your dream vehicle, but when you consider how often you and your family are going to be using your new caravan, the cost spread across ten years or more will quickly become justified.
An important element of the purchasing process is to ensure you do everything possible to check the vehicle is in good working condition and that the seller (either a private one or a professional trader) is being open and honest.
Exterior checks should include, as a bare minimum:
- The seals around the roof lights
- The base of the chassis
- The window and door seals
- The sidewalls, treads and pressure of the tyres
- The scratches and dents to the bumper and wall panels
- The fuel locker and awnings
3. Check the Inside of Your New Motorhome
Once you have made sure the exterior and the engine are up to scratch, it is then time to turn your attention to the inside of the vehicle.
Now, try not to be distracted or ‘put off’ by old and peeling wallpaper, mucky carpets or outdated colour schemes, as all these elements are easily and affordably changed should you need them to be. Instead, inside any potential secondhand motorhome, check for mould on the handles and catches of the drawers and cupboards; that the electronic appliances are in full working order; and that there are no signs of breakages or leakages along the pipework.
Finally, do not forget to check the seals around the windows and the wall panels in the bathroom; that each and every electrical socket is operational; and that the interior walls are sturdy and show no signs of mould.
