RV Trailer Auction Tips

Whether buying a fifth wheel, motorhome, travelcan save a bundle by buying an unusual or outdated
trailer or other RV at auction, there are some morefloor plan, but the truth is that you will have a harder
things you can take into consideration.time selling in later when you are ready to upgrade
1) What do the value guides say this RV is worthto a larger model. The most common mistake people
under normal circumstances? NADA and Kelly bluemake when buying an RV is to buy one that is to
book) This will be the upper limit of what you couldsmall. Within 2-3 years they are selling their RV in
be expected to pay for the RV at auction.order to buy a bigger one.
2) Does the RV come with any kind of5) Are their any repairs that I will have to make to
manufacture's warranty? If you find a newer modelthe motor home, fifth wheel, or travel trailer after I
at auction, chances are that it does. As RVbuy it? Always thoroughly inspect the motorhome or
companies become more competitive, they offerhave it inspect by and RV professional. Deduct the
their RVs with better and longer warranties.cost of repairs plus a 10 to 15% contingency from
3) Avoid off brands as they may be harder tothe maximum price you would otherwise by willing to
service and repair. An RV that has a national networkpay for the trailer or RV at auction.
of authorized dealers may be easier to service or6) Don't overbid. Know the most you can bid before
repair. Also avoid 'orphaned', where the parentthe auction starts. Be prepared to walk away from
company is no longer in business.the RV is the bid price exceeds the value you think it
4) Make sure you buy an RV at Auction that has anis worth. Don't become emotionally attached.
acceptable floor plan. You may thing that that your