What is my RV worth? All about depreciation

Time flies by fast when you’re enjoying your luxurious RV camper, but it’s important to remember that its initial value will not last forever. This problem is widespread among RV lovers, as it's easy to forget about depreciation. Before you know it, the value of your vehicle may have dipped considerably due to age, water damage, outdated appliances, or even the buying power of a brand name. So many factors play a role in determining your RV’s deprecation, and we’ve listed them here to help paint a picture of what your RV might be worth. 

Bad condition makes for bad RV resale value 

When it comes to RVs, depreciation is basically inevitable. Fortunately, there are maintenance choices owners can make to ensure their vehicle’s value isn’t sinking lower than it should be. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll stand a better chance of maintaining the value of your RV.

Water Damage 

Not even the best quality RVs are immune to water damage. Water can create a host of problems including mold, mildew, and peeling aluminum. Regular inspection should be done so that you can keep an eye on any suspicious changes. Soft spots in your RV wall or ceiling are a red flag, and you should also be on the lookout for any new discoloration. 

Driving Mishaps

For more reasons than one, all RV owners should prioritize safe driving. Incurring damage from recklessly hitting a curb or needlessly speeding can cause the value of your RV to plummet. More importantly, though, this is a matter of safety that should not be swept away in favor of seeking adventure. Take caution when driving beneath trees so that branches aren’t harming your RV’s roof.

Brand names speak volumes 

When a person or company is buying something new, reputable brand names can be a major deciding factor. Certain RV manufacturers have carved out big names for themselves in the industry, and customers trust these companies to exceed their expectations. Read on to be educated on which brand names have the power to bring in prospective buyers. 

Winnebago

There’s a reason Winnebago has become a household name. Founded in 1958, this company has been making waves in the RV space for decades. Winnebago RVs are carefully designed with high-tech detail, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship in all that they sell. Transwest is proud to offer several Winnebago models, from the Class A Sunstar to the Class C EKKO. Visit our website to see more of these impressive vehicles, because the power of a Winnebago logo won’t be wearing off any time soon. 

Palomino

As formidable as the horse breed they’re named for, Palomino RVs come in a variety of sizes. Their Palomini model is a great pick for those working with a tighter budget, and the Puma Destination is a massive space fit for traveling, partying, and even living full-time. Palomino is popular amongst RV enthusiasts, so the brand recognition makes these RVs more likely to remain valuable for years to come. 

Newmar

When RV lovers think of skillful construction, there’s a good chance Newmar will come to mind. By blending company values of courtesy, fairness, and integrity with excellent craftsmanship, Newmar consistently produces high-quality products. Tranwest sells several Newmar models because we trust that they always live up to their prominent name. Though the Dutch Star is this company’s best seller, we also carry plenty of other Newmar RVs that are guaranteed to sustain their hefty brand power. 

Don’t stress about mileage 

Unlike a used car, an RV's mileage isn’t a crucial element when determining value. This is because when an RV is left unused, collecting cobwebs in a shed or garage, maintenance problems tend to pile on quickly. Therefore, good condition is a more important indicator of value. A vehicle with high mileage but in great condition is usually still very sellable, so visit our website today to receive a quote on your used RV. 

RV maintenance is a must

If you retain one thing about RV depreciation, let it be the importance of good maintenance. Don’t let your RV fall to pieces and prevent it from becoming someone else’s beloved possession. If you don’t care for your RV as you would a car, you may be shocked by the lowball offers you get when it comes time to sell. Delve into research on maintenance basics to avoid common pitfalls, and visit a Transwest location today to explore our selection of vehicles old and new.