How To Prepare Your RV For Trade-In 

How To Prepare Your RV For Trade-In 

Selling your RV is much like selling your home. You need to work on the aesthetics and make sure all components are working properly and nothing is out of place before you show it to potential buyers.

Think about what you would want to see if you were looking to buy a secondhand RV. This will help you prepare and get more value for your RV and come home with a brand spanking new one!

It takes a lot of preparation and some research before you can trade-in your existing RV. Here are some of the things you should do before you head to your dealership.

Know Your Starting Value

The moment you decide on a trade-in, before you do anything, determine the Fair Market Value of your RV. This should give you a good reference point when you are negotiating with your dealership for a good price.

Make sure you do your research first. It is also wise to check other dealerships and sellers who are selling used models that are the same as your RV so you have a ballpark value.

Figure Out What You Are Keeping

Check your RV and see if there are features or upgrades that you want to keep. For example, you might want to keep your expensive solar panels, that upgraded inverter, or that 50-inch TV.

Make sure you inform the dealer that you are keeping the items so they can exclude that when they make their offer or estimate the value of the RV. 

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Preparation Is Everything!

Before you start cleaning and organising, find any original paperwork, owner’s manual, fact sheets, and any documentation related to the RV. Keep them safe before you start doing the following:

  • Remove all personal belongings from the RV.
  • Wash the exterior thoroughly.
  • Clean the tyres including the wheels and wheel wells.
  • Clean the windows, wash them inside and out.
  • Buff out minor scratches.
  • Empty and clean out all storage compartments.
  • Empty out the fridge and clean it thoroughly.
  • Clean the microwave, oven, and stovetop.
  • Wipe all cabinets clean.
  • Make sure the sinks and faucets are clean and in good condition.
  • Wash or dry clean all carpets and anything made of fabric.
  • Clean and disinfect the toilet and shower.
  • Clean the floor.
  • Remove any soiled bedding and make sure the mattress is clean and odour-free.

When you are done, go ahead and make sure the unit is functioning well and check for any damage. Here is a good checklist to follow:

  • Check the steps and make sure they are stable and sturdy.
  • Check the awnings for damage like stains and tears.
  • Test all exterior lights to make sure they are working properly. Replace as needed.
  • Check the interior lighting system and make sure they are working properly. 
  • Check the light colour and brightness, replace as needed.
  • Check the tyres – tread depth and air pressure.
  • Check storage doors and make sure they are functioning well.
  • Check under the RV for rust.
  • Check the screen doors for tears. Replace if needed.
  • Check the jacks to ensure they are working properly.
  • Check all sliding doors and make sure they sound smooth and are functioning properly.
  • Check for big scratches, damaged lamination, missing decals or stickers.
  • Check the holding tanks and make sure they function as designed. Check the hoses as well.
  • Check for damaged and worn out parts and components.
  • Test all the power outlets and ensure they are functioning and safe to use.
  • Test the water pressure.
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Paperwork and Documentation

Always keep all documentation and paperwork handy – registration, RV manuals, warranty records, service paperwork, etc. Do not hide any crucial details in the service records when your RV needed maintenance.

Most buyers want to know these details because it will let them know if the unit was well-maintained and taken cared of. Organise the paperwork in a folder and place it in a safe compartment in the RV when the RV is prepped and ready to go.

Important Reminder:

Set your expectations right. Research and ask around. Do what you can to get the best price out of your RV but manage your expectations. The Fair Market Value of your RV is usually not the same value for the dealership.

Remember that the dealership will have to spend money on the unit and pay people in order to resell your unit. Set a reasonable allowance on the price.

Are you looking to trade-in and get the latest in RV innovation? Luxury RVs offers a wide range of options to choose from. Let us help you find the right RV that will suit your needs. 

For the best new or used off-road caravans for your next holidaying adventure, then look no further than Luxury RVs WA.

We have over 40 years of experience in the caravan industry ranging from sales and custom vehicle building through to service and repairs.

Please call our super-friendly customer service team today on (08) 9509 6083 or contact us through our website for all your caravanning requirements.

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