10. Set a budget before you start your search so you have a clear price range in mind. Be realistic. Don’t forget to factor in fuel and insurance costs. New Class A motorhomes can range from $75,000 to over a million dollars, so it’s important to know your personal financial limits.

9. Identify your family’s personal space and activity needs and find an RV type that can meet them. Virtually all RVs have multiple floor plans available that help customize the RV to sleep anywhere from 2 to 8 people. Consider if you want to tow your RV with a truck or other vehicle, or if you want a motorized RV like having a motorhome. Many RVers who drive RVs bring a smaller vehicle in tow.

8. Look online to find RVs for sale from dealerships and private parties near you. A lower price might be worth the trip. When searching an online classifieds site, broaden your ZIP code search to include an area farther away than you think you might drive. Many RV dealers offer special packages that get you to purchase the RV and then you can drive it home.

7. Research NADA values ​​to make sure you are offered a rate price. Nada Guides is the most commonly suggested RV price guide, but prices vary widely depending on what extra features the RV has included.

6. Inspect all the nooks and crannies of a potential RV to ensure its quality and cleanliness. Little things could turn into real headaches later. Most new RVs are covered by the factory warranty for the first year. But be careful about the details of your warranty, such as the requirement that you return the RV to the manufacturing plant to have it fixed.

5. Use a reputable escrow company to exchange goods between you and the seller to avoid scams. RV Search recommends Escrow.com to help prevent fraud and ensure a smooth transaction.

4. Consider renting an RV similar to the type you’d like to buy and take it on a short trip. So you can really see how it meets the needs of your family. Cruise America, Freedom Roads, and El Monte RV Rentals are three great places to start your rental search.

3. Find out if the vehicle comes with a warranty and, if so, what it covers and for how long. This can be a real money saver on unexpected repairs. Otherwise, consider purchasing an extended warranty such as The Good Sam Club’s Ongoing Service Plan.

2. If more than one dealer in your area has the RV you want, get quotes from all of them. The more they compete for your business, the lower the final price you pay. Just like buying a car, don’t be afraid to haggle over the price.

1. Find a reputable, qualified RV mechanic to check out the vehicle before you buy it. You don’t want to find out after the fact that it needs major repairs.