Should You Buy A New Or Used Motorhome?

Why To Buy A New Motorhome

A brand new motorhome gives you exactly what you expect, a vehicle nobody else has driven, with the latest features and straight from the manufacturer.

The most obvious advantage is peace of mind, new motorhomes come with a full manufacturer's warranty, so if something goes wrong in the early months, you're covered without any awkward questions about previous ownership. You also get to choose your layout, spec and finish, which matters more than people realise when you're living out of it for extended periods of time.

Other reasons buyers choose new:

• The latest safety technology & driver assist features
• Modern fuel efficiency standards, which can reduce running costs over time
• Full service history starts with you; this is useful if you ever plan to sell
• Manufacturer finance deals & part exchange options are often available

The main drawback is depreciation, a new motorhome loses a portion of its value the moment it leaves the forecourt, so if you're looking to protect your investment short term, this is worth considering.

Why To Buy A Used Motorhome

A used motorhome is, for many buyers, the smarter financial decision, especially when or if you're new to motorhoming and still trying to figure out what you do and don't need in a motorhome.

The most significant benefit is value, someone else has already absorbed the initial depreciation, meaning you get considerably more vehicle for your money. A two or three year old motorhome can feel almost identical to new yet cost far less.

There are practical advantages too:

• Lower purchase price frees up budget for accessories, holidays or running costs
• Wider choice of layouts & older models that may no longer be in production
• Easier to trial motorhome life without a large financial commitment upfront

The key with used motorhomes is doing your research, always check the full service history, inspect the vehicle for damp (especially around the windows, roof vents and rear corners), it is also recommended that where possible, you have an independent inspection carried out before you sign anything. Buying from a reputable dealer such as RV Super Centre, rather than a private seller, gives you consumer protection and usually a used vehicle warranty.

How To Decide: A Few Honest Questions

If you're still on the fence, these are the questions worth sitting with:

• What's your realistic budget, including insurance, storage & servicing?
• Is this your first motorhome, or are you upgrading from one you've already owned?
• Do you want the reassurance of a warranty, or are you comfortable with the mechanics of buying used?
• How long do you plan to keep it?
• What do you want – berth, length, weight? Larger motorhomes sometimes require additional licences

First time buyers often find a good quality, used motorhome the most sensible and suitable starting point, while those who have motorhomed before and know exactly what they want often tend to find the freedom of specifying something new is a better option.

Finding Your Perfect Motorhome At RV Super Centre

Whether you're drawn to the full warranty and fresh specification of a new model or the value and variety of the used market, RV Super Centre has a range to suit. Our team is on hand to walk you through every option, no pressure, just straightforward advice. Get in touch with our team today to discuss our full range.