After many exciting adventures out on the open road, you’ve decided it’s time to sell your RV. Maybe you’re ready to upgrade to a larger model or downsize to something more portable. On the flip side, maybe you’re ready to close the RV chapter of your life for good. Regardless of your reasoning, one of your first steps should be to write a for-sale listing for the RV Trader marketplace so you can show off your pride and joy to other RVers who are actively looking to buy. While you’re putting your listing together, make sure to avoid any red flags that could potentially turn buyers away. RV Trader is sharing some practical advice that will help you create an RV for-sale listing that doesn’t have any red flags.
1. Write a detailed description.
Start off with the basic information for your Class B RV or other RV, such as the year, make, and model. Provide manufacturer specs, like weight, length, and height. If you can find a diagram of your RV’s interior layout, that’s also a great thing to include. From there, you’ll want to note the mileage, any upgrades or renovations you’ve done, how long you’ve had the RV, and how often you’ve used it. When it comes to for-sale listing descriptions, every detail is welcome. Failing to include key details is a red flag for shoppers who prefer to deal with sellers that are attentive to detail and committed to the transaction.
2. Include photos and videos.
This is your opportunity to let your fifth wheel or other camper shine! Before you whip out your camera, clean your RV thoroughly from top to bottom. Remove any lingering clutter and any personal items that are blocking important areas to photograph. Take the photos during the day, and make sure they’re well-lit and high quality. Use a variety of angles that showcase both the interior and exterior of your RV. If you have some extra time, film a short video that walks buyers through the inside of your RV.
Remember: Having no photos, or only using stock photos, are red flags for buyers, who might be wondering what you’re trying to hide by not including real images of the rig. So, don’t skip the photoshoot! Pick a sunny day, use your smartphone camera, and take a few candid snapshots.
3. Clearly state your asking price and negotiating terms.
Before you decide on a price, research the sales market. Check RV Trader to compare similar listings. You can also check NADA Guide to figure out the appraised value of your RV. Consider any damage your RV has endured and any upgrades you’ve done or renovations you’ve completed. All of these things should factor into the price.
You should also clarify your negotiating terms in your listing. Let buyers know if the price is firm or negotiable. This will help weed out buyers who don’t have the budget for your RV.
4. Be transparent about why you’re selling your RV.
Looking to upgrade? Trying to downsize? No longer have the time for RV trips with your toy hauler? Buyers will definitely be interested in why you’re selling your RV, so provide this information up front to avoid repetitive questions. Buyers will also appreciate your transparency. Ultimately, trying to hide anything is a red flag.
5. Disclose any repairs that the buyer might have to tackle.
If your RV needs a repair or two or has been in an accident, now is the time to be honest about those things. If you don’t disclose this information in the listing, the buyer will eventually find out through the vehicle history report or the pre-purchase inspection. It’s not uncommon for RV buyers to seek out projects that they can fix up, so your transparency may result in a quicker sale than you imagined.
6. Be clear about which items are included in the sale.
If you’re not planning to include any accessories with the sale, make sure to remove them from your Class A RV before you take listing photos. Consider things like trailer hitches, gear racks, and other equipment you’ve attached to your RV. The more clarity you offer in your listing, the better.
7. Provide all maintenance and service records.
There’s very little that’s more appealing to a buyer than a seller who’s kept meticulous service and maintenance records for their vehicle. Specify in your listing that you have a log of all maintenance that’s been performed on your RV, and if requested, pass them along to any interested buyers. This transparency is the opposite of a red flag – Buyers will appreciate the high level of care you showed to your RV, which will make the sale go much more smoothly.
If you’re ready to sell your RV, visit RV Trader to get started today, and read through these top tips for selling your used RV. Look through our RV Seller’s Guide for additional resources!
One Response
I am currently a park ranger living in a state park in a cedar Creek model 32 RL. And have to sell it as I’m retiring in about 2 months it’s located in Fort Pierce Florida Fort Pierce Inlet State Park as a matter of fact and willing to sell it for what I owe even though I put in a new air conditioning unit.