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What Type of RVs Hold their Value the Best?

By: O'Connor RV   |   31 Jan 2023
class-c-motorhomes

While it could seem counter-intuitive, making a big investment such as a residential vehicle means giving some thought into your plans to get rid of it in the future. Even if you hope to enjoy your RV for years to come, it’s important to consider its depreciation and how you can get the best return on your investment. Thankfully, the team at O’Connor RV is here to help you determine what kinds of RVs best hold their value and some tips you can employ that can help should you be looking to trade in or sell down the line.

Class C Motorhomes Are a Safe Bet

There are numerous kinds of RVs out there that all aim to serve a different purpose depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for. When it comes down to it, however, according to NADA, Class C motorhomes tend to hold their value the best. These motorhomes have the best rate of depreciation. After three years, a Class C motorhome only loses about 26% of its value, which is impressive when considering the depreciation rates for the other classes. 

Additionally, if you’re more into the travel trailer category, moulded fibreglass camper trailers hold their value much better than almost any other travel trailer. This is because moulded fibreglass campers are less susceptible to water damage due to their moulded waterproof construction.

Things That Make RVs Lose Their Value

RVs are a constantly depreciating asset, so there are a few things to note that might aid in them losing their value over time.

  • Driving Off the Lot. You actually lose around 20% of your camper’s value just by driving it off the lot. This is sometimes enough to scare people away from buying new, and why buying used is often more desirable.
  • Age. The age of your camper is one of the largest determining factors in the rate of depreciation. For example, a 10-year-old fifth wheel may lose 71% of its initial value. 
  • Mileage. More factors go into depreciation with motorhomes than towable RVs. This is because motorhomes are both a vehicle and an RV. Mileage can affect motorhome depreciation. Too many miles can cause a motorhome to depreciate, but too few miles can affect it, too. That being said, if an older motorhome has low miles, a prospective buyer knows that the engine sat unused for long periods. This can cause damage to the engine and alos bring the value of the RV down. 

Tips for Retaining Your RVs Value

Here are some pro tips for keeping your RV in good shape so it retains its value.

  • Upgrade the RV appliances with modern ones
  • Redo the flooring over time.
  • Have the RV regularly serviced, including winterizing and de-winterizing.
  • Maintain the RV’s insulation over time.

Shop Quality New and Used RVs at O’Connor RV!

If you’re looking for a quality RV to last you the long haul – and then some – O’Connor RV is happy to serve to good people of Chilliwack, BC! We’re pleased to offer an impressive inventory of motorhomes and Outdoor RVs that include Class A, Class B and Class C Motorhomes, along with fifth wheels, lightweight trailers, and truck campers from top names like Forest River, Northern Lite, and more! Don’t hesitate to browse our inventory today and contact us to set up a walk-through!

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