One thing about buying an RV that is a couple of years old and that has been used a lot is that "some" or "most" of the warranty problems have been ironed out. Having some existing wearranty is also a big plus. There is no such thing as a "Problem Free RV." PERIOD! Great video!
I want to thank you for your video. I have been contemplating on purchasing my first travel trailer and after doing a little research and watching your video , well it just made it easier for me to decide. The Grand Design Imagine MK2670 was on my list of the top 5 I would like to purchase as well as the Keystone Bullet. So thanks for the help, was definitely appreciated!!
I’ve read mixed reviews on Grand Design since Winnebago purchased them. Resale values have also dropped, especially in their 5th wheel offerings due to reported frame structural issues
There is so much misinformation on the internet from spreaders of drama and negativity who know very little and make assertions based on little to no facts to speak of. The truth is that Grand Design started building RVs in 2012. Only four years later, Winnebago bought them in 2016. During the time that they have been owned by Winnebago (8 years now), GD has consistently placed in the top tier of RV manufacturers with high owner satisfaction. And they have won numerous awards both from consumers and the industry for their products. And there is no credible evidence that Winnebago has any major negative affect on GD since they bought them. Also as I said in the video, GD's resale value has continued to remain high which is a great indicator of perceived quality in the minds of the RV buying public. And finally, what's wrong with Winnebago owning GD? They are well known for their quality products as well. So until I see facts that indicate otherwise, I will continue to recommend Grand Design.
Strange there is zero mention of fiberglass RV's which traditionally have some of the highest resale values, and particularly Oliver which is a stellar industry quality stand out. Also it is clear that even many of the best brands experienced plummeting quality in covid and post covid times. Including Airstream. So which exact year you buy, new or used, matters. Careful inspection required (as duly noted.) Some late model re-sellers may be unloading lemons.
This video is not about smaller ultra-light or fiberglass travel trailers. That will be another video. Also this video was not, as I said in the video, about RV quality, just resale value. You obviously are not one of my regular followers because if you were you would know that I have covered the subjects you mention in detail in other videos.
Hi James. I'm not a huge fan of the build quality in most Forest River RVs. But they do much better with their Rockwood brand. You may still have challenges with FR's customer service though. It hasn't always been that good.
I am surprised that the Forest River Rockwood is not on the list. Rockwood and Flagstaff have aluminum frames and this eliminates wood rot. Seems to me it is logical they will last longer.
This video isn't about how long an RV lasts. It's only about how well RV brands hold their resale value on the used market. And while Rockwood and Flagstaff perform better than most Forest River products, I feel that there are other brands that fare better when it comes time to sell.
First time RV buyer here. I'd love to get your feedback on a recent conversation that I had with the manufacturer and dealer. This afternoon, the manufacturer's concierge called me to ask if I had any questions about my RV buying experience. I mention that we really like the layout, but we didn't plan on installing a TV, so did they offer a cabinet kit that we could install instead? The concierge replied that any "owner, dealer, or third-party" upgrades could affect that warranty. That threw me for a loop... I understand owner upgrades, but didn't understand dealer upgrades, since I picture the dealer and manufacturer as selling and service partners. I mentioned that the dealer was already installing what they called "essential upgrades", including a slide awning. If, for example, wind caught the slide awning and damaged the slide or laminated siding, could the manufacturer technically refuse to cover the repair. The short answer was "yes". So I call the dealership and ask them to put in writing that they would cover any damages caused by the slide awning if the manufacturer refused to cover under warranty. Their service manager said "that would never happen because we would never tell them the damage was caused by the awing." I didn't feel comfortable with that response so still asked them put it in writing. To me, this sounds like a major loophole. I know upgrades
Hi Ethan. Whoever installs any product on an RV needs to be ready to stand behind it during the warranty period. If they are not willing to do that, it may be time to get those upgrades installed someplace else.
These were the only four brands I considered when I bought my Cougar last year. Airstream was too expensive, too little cargo capacity, and no slide for long term living. I put in a special order for an ORV and they raised the price $10K while I was waiting. Two used Arctic Fox purchases fell through because dealers wouldn't let me inspect them. So that left Grand Design and Keystone. Grand Design seemed under built and lacked key features and Keystone seemed robust and checked all the boxes.
Hi Gary. You did the right thing by not giving in to those dealers who wouldn't allow an RV inspection. I hope you enjoy your Keystone for years to come!
I owned a 23FB, and can attest they are well designed, but THOR is milking the name for money, and cheaping out on every component, fabric, etc. When my foot went through the floor at about 4 years because of floor rot, and the tech found areas under every window that were also soft. Airstream knew about the issues and as repairs were after warranty, saved $50 a unit, costing me over $25,000.
@@Erin-Thor My 2023 Cougar has composite floors, which feel wonky to walk on, but I've noticed Airstream builds plywood floors, which is solid, but a real problem when it comes to water.
@@garyray - Yeah, Airstreams are almost airtight. What they don’t tell you is if you camp in cold weather, which we love, humans breathe, cook and shower, which creates window condensation. I saw it, knew the water was there… but assumed Airstream would have put some sort of drain or channel to route the water, similar to the A/C which has a tube running down and out. I was wrong, Airstream took no action, no drains as the problems would occur after warranty. Airstream DOES put mold and mildew resistant plywood at the lip of the entry and shower doors. Also of note that as of 2022 they started using composite floors. I know no RV is perfect, I just didn’t think on a $130k+ trailer they would cut corners like that, I incorrectly assumed that meant I was getting quality. The number of times where something broke, like the electric winch, the tech said, no, you don’t want Airstreams replacement, you want this, this one has metal gears, not plastic and will last longer. Sorry if I seem jaded, I love Airstream’s, but I have about 30,000 reasons to not trust them. 😊
No mention of Oliver , Escape or Bigfoot brands . Always thought these were top of the line units that held value better than most and are of high quality.
This video is not about the smaller fiberglass travel trailers. It's about the larger and more recognized brands in the mind of the buying public. And I also mentioned that the RVs mentioned n this video are not the full list of travel trailers that hold their value well.
@@hddoug72 There is a lot of misinformation and exaggeration being spread around about RVs in general and about certain brands as well. So I try to be as honest as I can in the content I create. I'm glad to hear that my approach is appreciated by at least some. Have safe and happy travels!
No I didn't forget Lance. As I said in the video there are other brands that also have higher resale value, and Lance would be one of those. Also, I mentioned at the beginning of the video that it was not about build quality. Just resale value.
One thing about buying an RV that is a couple of years old and that has been used a lot is that "some" or "most" of the warranty problems have been ironed out. Having some existing wearranty is also a big plus. There is no such thing as a "Problem Free RV." PERIOD!
Great video!
Those are all great points. Thanks for sharing them here Henry!
I want to thank you for your video. I have been contemplating on purchasing my first travel trailer and after doing a little research and watching your video , well it just made it easier for me to decide. The Grand Design Imagine MK2670 was on my list of the top 5 I would like to purchase as well as the Keystone Bullet. So thanks for the help, was definitely appreciated!!
Hi Don. I'm glad this video was helpful. I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
I’ve read mixed reviews on Grand Design since Winnebago purchased them. Resale values have also dropped, especially in their 5th wheel offerings due to reported frame structural issues
There is so much misinformation on the internet from spreaders of drama and negativity who know very little and make assertions based on little to no facts to speak of. The truth is that Grand Design started building RVs in 2012. Only four years later, Winnebago bought them in 2016. During the time that they have been owned by Winnebago (8 years now), GD has consistently placed in the top tier of RV manufacturers with high owner satisfaction. And they have won numerous awards both from consumers and the industry for their products. And there is no credible evidence that Winnebago has any major negative affect on GD since they bought them. Also as I said in the video, GD's resale value has continued to remain high which is a great indicator of perceived quality in the minds of the RV buying public. And finally, what's wrong with Winnebago owning GD? They are well known for their quality products as well. So until I see facts that indicate otherwise, I will continue to recommend Grand Design.
I have had good luck with Flagstaff also.
Hi Robert. I'm not a big fan of most Forest River products. But I make an exception for Flagstaff and Rockwood.
I've been very very happy with my 2014 Jayco Jay Fligh Swift 294bhs
Yep. Jayco is another brand worth considering and it has pretty good resale value too.
Strange there is zero mention of fiberglass RV's which traditionally have some of the highest resale values, and particularly Oliver which is a stellar industry quality stand out. Also it is clear that even many of the best brands experienced plummeting quality in covid and post covid times. Including Airstream. So which exact year you buy, new or used, matters. Careful inspection required (as duly noted.) Some late model re-sellers may be unloading lemons.
This video is not about smaller ultra-light or fiberglass travel trailers. That will be another video. Also this video was not, as I said in the video, about RV quality, just resale value. You obviously are not one of my regular followers because if you were you would know that I have covered the subjects you mention in detail in other videos.
What are your thoughts on the rockwood signature ultralight travel trailers
Hi James. I'm not a huge fan of the build quality in most Forest River RVs. But they do much better with their Rockwood brand. You may still have challenges with FR's customer service though. It hasn't always been that good.
I am surprised that the Forest River Rockwood is not on the list. Rockwood and Flagstaff have aluminum frames and this eliminates wood rot. Seems to me it is logical they will last longer.
This video isn't about how long an RV lasts. It's only about how well RV brands hold their resale value on the used market. And while Rockwood and Flagstaff perform better than most Forest River products, I feel that there are other brands that fare better when it comes time to sell.
Great video. Thank you.
Glad you liked it. Thanks for leaving a positive comment!
First time RV buyer here. I'd love to get your feedback on a recent conversation that I had with the manufacturer and dealer. This afternoon, the manufacturer's concierge called me to ask if I had any questions about my RV buying experience. I mention that we really like the layout, but we didn't plan on installing a TV, so did they offer a cabinet kit that we could install instead? The concierge replied that any "owner, dealer, or third-party" upgrades could affect that warranty. That threw me for a loop... I understand owner upgrades, but didn't understand dealer upgrades, since I picture the dealer and manufacturer as selling and service partners. I mentioned that the dealer was already installing what they called "essential upgrades", including a slide awning. If, for example, wind caught the slide awning and damaged the slide or laminated siding, could the manufacturer technically refuse to cover the repair. The short answer was "yes". So I call the dealership and ask them to put in writing that they would cover any damages caused by the slide awning if the manufacturer refused to cover under warranty. Their service manager said "that would never happen because we would never tell them the damage was caused by the awing." I didn't feel comfortable with that response so still asked them put it in writing. To me, this sounds like a major loophole. I know upgrades
are a major revenue source for dealers, but why should a buyer risk purchasing upgrades if we could be stuck paying for out-of-pocket damages?
Hi Ethan. Whoever installs any product on an RV needs to be ready to stand behind it during the warranty period. If they are not willing to do that, it may be time to get those upgrades installed someplace else.
These were the only four brands I considered when I bought my Cougar last year. Airstream was too expensive, too little cargo capacity, and no slide for long term living. I put in a special order for an ORV and they raised the price $10K while I was waiting. Two used Arctic Fox purchases fell through because dealers wouldn't let me inspect them. So that left Grand Design and Keystone. Grand Design seemed under built and lacked key features and Keystone seemed robust and checked all the boxes.
Hi Gary. You did the right thing by not giving in to those dealers who wouldn't allow an RV inspection. I hope you enjoy your Keystone for years to come!
I owned a 23FB, and can attest they are well designed, but THOR is milking the name for money, and cheaping out on every component, fabric, etc. When my foot went through the floor at about 4 years because of floor rot, and the tech found areas under every window that were also soft. Airstream knew about the issues and as repairs were after warranty, saved $50 a unit, costing me over $25,000.
@@Erin-Thor My 2023 Cougar has composite floors, which feel wonky to walk on, but I've noticed Airstream builds plywood floors, which is solid, but a real problem when it comes to water.
@@garyray - Yeah, Airstreams are almost airtight. What they don’t tell you is if you camp in cold weather, which we love, humans breathe, cook and shower, which creates window condensation. I saw it, knew the water was there… but assumed Airstream would have put some sort of drain or channel to route the water, similar to the A/C which has a tube running down and out. I was wrong, Airstream took no action, no drains as the problems would occur after warranty. Airstream DOES put mold and mildew resistant plywood at the lip of the entry and shower doors. Also of note that as of 2022 they started using composite floors. I know no RV is perfect, I just didn’t think on a $130k+ trailer they would cut corners like that, I incorrectly assumed that meant I was getting quality. The number of times where something broke, like the electric winch, the tech said, no, you don’t want Airstreams replacement, you want this, this one has metal gears, not plastic and will last longer. Sorry if I seem jaded, I love Airstream’s, but I have about 30,000 reasons to not trust them. 😊
@@Erin-Thor Not at all. It's good to know the pros and cons. Airstream is definitely the best choice in a field of bad choices.
Nice..Thank you for sharing these information with us❤
I'm glad that you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!
Reflection is top of the line? What happened to Solitude and Momentum?
Solitude is a fifth wheel and Momentums are toy haulers.
While true - Solitude is top of the line on fifth wheels for Grand Design
@@Steve-fp9yw Do you see anything about fifth wheels in the title for this video? It's only for travel trailers that aren't toy haulers.
No, completely missed that, sorry.
@@Steve-fp9yw No problem Steve.
No mention of Oliver , Escape or Bigfoot brands . Always thought these were top of the line units that held value better than most and are of high quality.
This video is not about the smaller fiberglass travel trailers. It's about the larger and more recognized brands in the mind of the buying public. And I also mentioned that the RVs mentioned n this video are not the full list of travel trailers that hold their value well.
@@RVInspectionAndCare
Ok some of the size units you mentioned are in the same size as some of the larger fiberglass units .
You, Sir are a voice of reason in this ever changing landscape of the RV world. Thanks
@@hddoug72 There is a lot of misinformation and exaggeration being spread around about RVs in general and about certain brands as well. So I try to be as honest as I can in the content I create. I'm glad to hear that my approach is appreciated by at least some. Have safe and happy travels!
I just sold a 2020 Escape fiberglass trailer for what I paid for it.
Where would you rank the 2022 Rockwood mini lite
Rockwood has a pretty good resale value. There are a lot of Rockwood fans out there.
Thanks
Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!
You forgot to add Lance to your list. They are a heck of a lot better than Keystone.
No I didn't forget Lance. As I said in the video there are other brands that also have higher resale value, and Lance would be one of those. Also, I mentioned at the beginning of the video that it was not about build quality. Just resale value.