10 steps to sell your RV for top dollar

Buying your recreational vehicle was probably a major financial investment. So when you’re ready to sell it, you want to get the most on your return. KSL Classifieds suggests 10 ways to prepare your camper, trailer or motor home so you can sell it at the best price.

Price it right

Just because you think you should get a certain dollar amount for your RV doesn’t mean anyone else agrees. Just like selling a home or car, you need to look at its actual value. To determine your price, check with the J.D. Power Vehicle Pricing Guide. If your rig is in good condition, lean toward the average price. If not, choose the low range. 

In addition, look at similar models available on KSL Classifieds to learn what others are asking.Take note of how long they’ve been for sale. If inventory isn’t moving, they could be overpriced for the local market. Keep in mind, while setting your price lower than others could mean a quick sale, you don’t want to cheat yourself. 

Photo credit: Adobe Stock

Use good timing

Depending on the time of year, you may be able to sell your RV for more. People looking to travel throughout the summer often begin buying in the early spring, so they can have a trailer for the entire summer camping season. But that doesn’t mean you need to wait until February to list yours for sale. Often people will begin window shopping in the fall, so it’s worthwhile listing your item whenever you are ready to sell.

If you have a newer model, try listing it when there’s a major RV show in town. Buyers might jump at your lower priced model. In contrast, if you have an older one, you may want to hold off a bit. Potential buyers checking out the latest, state-of-the-art, fancy schmancy models might feel your classic is a bit outdated.

Make it a clean machine

Taking the time to thoroughly clean your motor home or camper will not only increase its perceived value, it will likely improve your ability to sell. Buyers will feel more comfortable meeting your asking price if they think you’ve taken good care of your trailer. 

Avoid putting people off with weird smells, stains and other grime. Clean everywhere: toilet, storage cubbies, roof. Get it professionally detailed, if needed. Even someone looking at a fixer-upper doesn’t want it to be a cleaner-upper. And every greasy fingerprint gives buyers a reason to negotiate a lower price.

In addition, remove any personal items so it appears like it would on a showroom floor. Buyers should be able to imagine their own family in the space. Clear counters, cupboards and floor space — and your bobble heads — so it appears as roomy as possible.

It’s in the details

A broken cupboard handle, a leaky tap, peeling wallpaper. If anything is missing, sagging or broken, no matter how small, repair it. Even if they seem like simple fixes, anything amiss makes your rig less appealing and could make buyers more hesitant to offer your asking price.

Photo credit: Adobe Stock

All systems go

Any mechanical issues should be addressed, as well. You can sell your motor home with a faulty water pump, but a buyer won’t pay full price when they know they’ll be facing repair costs. Inspect all the systems before offering it for sale. Getting a clean bill of health from a professional mechanic will help you seal the better deal. Most people are willing to pay a little extra for assurance that everything is in working order.

Set the stage

You’re more likely to get your asking price if your camper is move-in ready. Make it look livable by staging it as you would a home for sale. Hang a new shower curtain and towels, add an attractive rug and decorate with bright throw pillows. If your RV is outdated, make some simple upgrades such as new cabinet knobs, towel racks and curtains.

Before buyers arrive, open windows and doors to air out any funky smells and remove any garbage. Turn on all the lights and the heater or air conditioner. Be sure the beds are neatly made, too, and everything is in its place.

Create a paper trail

Gather all your documents, such as the title and inspection certificates, and print out any paperwork you may need to help the sale go smoothly. Organize your maintenance records and order a CarFax report to show how well you’ve cared for your home away from home. Be sure the manuals are in the glovebox or drawer.

Get your photos worth

Taking beautiful pictures for your KSL Classifieds listing will attract more buyers, which means you’re more likely to get a higher price for your RV. Do this after you’ve cleaned and straightened up. 

Photo credit: Adobe Stock

When you create your listing, place the photos in logical order — as if you were taking the viewer on a personal tour. Start with a clear shot of the exterior. For the second, include a clear image of the interior — wide angle, if possible. Some closeups are OK, but not too close. No one cares about a fancy towel bar or candle on the counter, they want to see the setup. Add photos of the bathroom and storage areas last. Include a floor plan, too. 

Always on their mind

Buyers may look at several trailers before making a purchase. To keep yours in their mind, print out a few flyers to hand out to prospective buyers. Include some photos and pertinent information, including important features and upgrades. Remember to put your contact details on it so they can easily reach you.

Sell it on KSL Classifieds

Selling your RV privately on KSL Classifieds means you set the price and make all the decisions. Another benefit: You can list it for sale, but continue to use it until you get the offer you want. Not quite ready to say goodbye? Rent it instead, until you’re ready to move on.