How To Trade In Your Used RV
Parting ways with your RV is hard. There have likely been some great times in it that have created warm memories over the years. However just as some homeowners sell their houses after several years, motorhome owners do the same, and it’s usually because they are looking to upgrade. Trading in your used RV can seem tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the selling process. It’s important that you do your research and go with a reputable buyer who respects your asking price and is also familiar with the make and model. At South Thompson RV, we buy used RVs in Kamloops and promise to get you the best value for your set of wheels. We also offer a free appraisal on your used motorhome to give you an estimate of how much money it will go for--which you can ultimately put towards your new upgrade. Before you sell your used RV, there are a few tricks of the trade that you can do to increase the trade-in value. Check out the top five ways to get the most out of selling your RV.
Get It Detailed
Whether you book a professional detailing service or not, it’s important to do a thorough once-over on your RV to make sure it’s clean. That doesn’t just mean take out the garbage and de-clutter. If there are stains on the counter or floor, either from water damage or other substances, replace or clean them! Potential buyers will be walking through the RV to assess its overall condition. If it looks unkempt, your selling price will go down. Detailing could mean anything from a new paint job on the interior and exterior to a complete overhaul on the RV. There are plenty of parts and accessories for sale online that can jumpstart a DIY detailing job.
Fix It Up
Look around for anything that either looks outdated or could need replacing. Are there any broken windows? Ripped furniture? Outdated wallpaper? There are plenty of ways to make your RV look more luxurious than it already is. Taking the time and spending a little bit of money could increase the asking price for your RV. Even small issues like fixing a broken appliance might seem like a pain, but the return profit will be much bigger and better for you as a seller.
Replace Worn Out Seals
Broken seals are the biggest pain to many RV owners because they attract excess water and damage from leaks. Examine all windows and feel for air coming through. If air comes through, water will too. It’s also a good idea to inspect the kitchen and the bathroom seals to make sure your bathtub or sinks are fully intact. Water damage can cost thousands in repairs, especially if you have to replace counters or floors. Your trade-in could also be denied because broken seals are often a sure sign of mold.
Replace Appliances/Furniture
Sure, that broken back burner on the stove may be familiar to you by now, but for a new buyer, they’ll want everything working because they’re paying for it! Make sure that all of your appliances work properly, both on electrical and on propane. Give your circuit breakers a once-over and replace any broken fuses which could be affecting your appliances. If your appliances are dirty (food under the burners or residue in the fridge), clean them! Appliances are a big asset to any RV and could mean the difference between selling and not selling. If you’ve been meaning to spend the money and get yourself a new fridge or microwave for the RV, it’s still a good idea to buy it. This shows sellers that you care about the upkeep in your RV.
Install New Floors
Years of wear and tear are the most obvious on your floors. With so many people entering and exiting your RV (sometimes with shoes on), and the inevitable dirt and grime that’s brought in from being outside and on the road, your floors may not look as good as they used to. Although many modern luxury RVs have laminate floors, some of the older models still have vinyl stick-on tiles or carpeting. Both of these options are outdated and aren’t doing you any favours. Plus, if the floors are different in every room, it tends to look tacky. Go with a laminate wood floor or something that can take a lot of wear and tear and be amazed at the impact it has on your RV.
Are you thinking about trading in your used RV? At South Thompson Motors, we’re always looking for high-quality motorhomes to add to our pre-owned inventory. Our staff will conduct a free trade-in appraisal on your old motorhome, and while we’re at it, show you some of our new RV inventory that could soon be yours! Call us today at 1-(888) 871-4058 or contact us online for further information.
