RV Price Negotiation | Tips for Negotiating the Best Price for Your Camper Van
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- Опубліковано 29 лип 2024
- Follow these tips to getting the best price on your new RV.
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One of the first hurdles you have to get over to get into the RV lifestyle is purchasing your new rig. But the experience doesn't have to be a negative one and with a few tips and trick you may end up saving thousand of dollars.
First, know your stuff before you go in. I mean really know it. Do your research and know exactly the make, model and options that you want as well who and what the competition offers. Scope out your local dealers that sell the make and model that you're looking for. It's always better to have more than one local dealer selling the make and model that you're looking for. Then, scope out the dealers selling the competition's makes and models. You may never intend on stepping on to the lots of the competition but your local dealer of your preferred make and model doesn't know this. Finally, use online resources like RVTrader and owners' groups on Facebook and search them for what people are paying for the exact make and model of the RV you're interested in. You can generally get a pretty good idea of the discount that people are paying.
Next, set a limit for the maximum amount that you're willing to pay. This is the highest amount that you will pay for the RV not including taxes and other fees. It's important that this number is realistic and falls within the range that others are paying. If it's too low you'll never get a deal. Be realistic but write that number down and never pay even a dollar more than this number. Also write down a second number: your preferred price. This is a lower number that you're going to shoot for. Say the average discount your seeing others get is between 10% and 15%. Set the maximum amount at a 15% but your preferred discount as something a little lower say 10%. When you negotiate use this preferred discount but in the back of your mind know that you're prepared to go down to the lower discount if you have to. You want to give yourself some wiggle room.
When you pull the trigger to buy you need to make sure you do these two things sometime during the course of your discussions with your sales person: First, ensure that they have your name and number as a way to contact you later. Second, drop a little mention that you're not completely sold on the make and model that they're selling and drop the names of the competitors' makes and models that you're also considering. The sales person needs to understand that you know what you're talking about and that the RV that they're selling isn't necessarily the one that you really want (even though it is). It send a message that you can walk off their lot at any moment and onto their competitor dealer's lot. No sales person wants you to walk off their lot because they know the chances of you ever returning drops dramatically.
To maximize the discount you can get time your purchase wisely. Never go out in the peak spring buying season. There's too much competition from buyers. You won't get your best deal. Instead go either in the off season (winter) or in June / July when the model years generally change. If you go during the model year change dealers want to move the old model year RVs off their lots to make room for the shiny new model years. You can get some great discounts during this time. The same holds true for going in the off season. I've found the end of December is a great time right when the calendar year is ending.
I hope these tips help you get the very best price for your new RV and get you onto the road and into the RV Lifetstyle.
Check out my other camper van buying advice here: • 2018 Winnebago Revel v...
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Do you also offer RV consulting services to weigh in on a used Pleasure Way purchase I am considering?
Hi, Mark. Thanks for reaching out. Yes, I am trialing a consulting service right now. I have emailed you more information about it. I'm happy to learn more about how I can help you. If you have further questions please email me at: neil.balthaser@live.com
Mark Fleischman s
Ultramobility What a great idea.
For a 2020 Pleasure way Tofila they dropped from msrp $76940. to $69,156. I was thinking $56,000. What is your opinion?
Monty : Is the RV from a local dealer?
The next time I hear a salesman say, "If I take that to my boss, he'll laugh me out of the office," I'm going to say, "I love to make people laugh. Let's go back there together!"
I'd love to see someone do this!
I’m sure you do but your salesman might not appreciate being made to look foolish and may just want to help you not waste time. Great video though.
OMG thats funny!
He is not lying though. I used to be a new car salesman. The managers wont let us comeback to ask such a question
I'll be looking at toy haulers soon, next 3 months maybe. If he says those words I'll say that reply & write back. 😂
I absolutely love to Negotiate with car and RV dealers.
When I have been told "if you can find this vehicle cheaper someplace else, I suggest you go there", great! Up I go and walk out the door AND I do not look back no matter how much they scream and come running after me.
I think you can add more specific times to purchase. The end of the month, end of the quarter, and the end of the year. I have purchased two cars on December 31st. The dealership closed at 4pm. I was still there negotiating after 7pm. In the end (over the course of just a few hours of work), I saved thousands.
Think of how long it took you to earn $10,000. If you are not intimidated, you can "earn" that (via a lower price) in just a few hours.
As a 3rd party rv inspector, pay attention, bring a friend, or hire one of us to check out the unit before signing. Because once you sign the paperwork, any problems you find means you go to the back of the “warranty” line...
Great video my man. I love it. I'd try this one though...
"give me an offer"
"how's $100,000"
"OMG! I can't take that in to my boss. Give me a REAL offer..."
"ok, how's $95,000. Ask again I'll go to $90,000" *smile*
Good one!
I worked as a car salesman for several months while I was in between good jobs. I did ok but I hated it. This is all very good advice. Also, something to keep in mind is don’t be afraid to be friendly with the salesman. If he likes you, he actually will fight for you. He’d rather make a little bit of money on the sale than none at all (if you walk). I did convince my boss to give a better deal a few times when it was needed to make the sale. But the flip side of that is, don’t befriend the salesman to the point where you feel like you owe something to him for his time.
And I’ve seen my boss give better deals at the end of the day, or at the end of the month, than they ever would on a normal day. They want to bump up those sales numbers.
My 40 Plus years of work has involved in purchasing large excavating equipment.
Well over $150k each time. What I have learned is to figure out the dealers end of fiscal year and buy 1-2 days prior.
Takes some research or asking round-about questions to staff members.
They want to close out the year end books with good amount of total unit sales.
Way better deals can be had when they are scrambling those last closing days.
thank you for sharing this Gregory!
Gregory A. Parsons how do you do that?!!! Are you meaning the company or the salesman? Please tell. TY.
Thanks Gregory for sharing this tip. Have either you or "ultra mobility" determined when Canadian Pleasureway Dealers have the end of their fiscal year? (We are in BC - if location is a factor). Thank you so much
@@Ultramobility
Loved the role play. Great points that really help buyers with a very expensive purchase.
thanks Charlie's Mom!
Having previously worked in car sales, I'm used to seeing all the sales bashing articles and videos demonizing the industry. This is refreshingly thoughtful and accurate. The salesman wants to get the most for his product, the buyer wants to pay the least. It's a dance. Don't take it too seriously; it's not life or death. Most of all, be informed and have fun.
thanks for sharing Edward!
I can't take that price to my boss. My reply is always, "Let me talk to your boss." Note: If they have to get the boss' price approval, they also have to explain why you left.
Wow, your video reminded me of my experience with an RV dealer. Its exasperating playing their game but thanks to your tips, ill be much better prepared next time.
I love this roleplaying the sales scenario! Excellent tips for anyone buying anything from a car to a house to an RV! Loved it!
Be ready to walk away is my best tip. Oh, and be willing to leave for lunch and / or bring drinks and protein bars / snacks.
yep, just remember that you're the one in the driver's seat - literally!
Neil, this video is probably the best straightforward explanation of tips and tactics during RV purchasing. I so appreciate your candid and honest input from your experience/knowledge. Thanks so much, and keep it up. Always, Syn Silver.
Syn, thank you very much. I appreciate your comment - it's my paycheck!
Amazing info and tips on dealing... Keep up the great work you're doing. Thank you Neil!!!
dan - really glad that you find my video useful! thank you so much for watching!
Neal, this is what we needed! You’re the BEST! We need an RV so bad as my hubby and I can’t be separated. But we have three little furry four legged creatures. We need a home on wheels and though we watch all your shows, this is the one we needed. Thank you. Loved your walk through the showroom show also. Would love to design the inside ourselves, that’s our second problem (just want more open space in the smaller RV.) ty.
I just stumbled across this video and plan to share it with several people in my area that are going to purchase this year! thank you so much for the helpful advice. Living in Las Vegas the dealer competition part of the video really hits home for me.
Tela thank you so much for watching and for sharing! I really appreciate it!
Great video. You identified and provided cool tips and advice on how to handle a situation where you can risk giving away too much control. Thanks.
thanks, Craig!
I love your advice so much
I’m about to go out there and look for
One around next year thanks again
Excellent information Neil! Thanks for sharing your negotiating experiences with us.
you're welcome Jan! thanks for watching!
I thought this was outstanding, especially them getting you to bid against yourself, and to come prepared knowing your price. Thank you!!
glad you have found this useful bryan.
This is absolutely fascinating to watch. Love it!
I was laughing with tears in my eyes! Great video.
Good presentation. I liked how you role-play on each side. I liked also how you brought up purchasing from outside local areas on what to expect. I think a plane ticket and saving money is worth traveling to getting the same model RV that fits one's needs. The depreciation on a new one is so great that reducing your initial cost keeps the money in your pocket. Also, keep in mind the miles generated on the vehicle to the dealership from the manufacturer. For example, the west coast and dealerships add extra cost. These are items I would use to get a good price if buying locally
New subscriber... Thank you sooooo much for the information. I'm thoroughly enjoying watching your videos. When I'm ready to pull the trigger, I feel like I'm a better informed consumer.
Will that's music to my ears! I'm glad you like my channel - keep watching and sharing please!
Another great video Neil. Lots of good advice. Thank you once again.
patricia thank you for watching!
Fun to watch and lots of info !The way you did both parts Seller and buyer ! HA HA !
Very educational, I tend to be a sucker for the sales pitch! Great examples.
Great video, love the role play of both sides, priceless
Thanks Neil we where away in the camper so watched it but could not comment. Great role play very helpful information.
Brian, always nice to hear from you - thanks for watching!
I despise negotiating prices. Its a stupid game where knowing how to play might get you a fair price. Maybe. And not knowing how to play, or playing badly, makes you a sucker.
Thanks for the video. Its helpful info.
The RV business is horrible this way. I hate it as well
@@jerrygundrum1 It's SALES, no matter what the product..it seems all sales training comes from the 'USED CAR SALES MANUAL'
I know this is an older video, but it popped up in my feed. We are currently in the research and touring phase of the RV’ we are interested in. The information you gave in this video is extremely helpful in my “getting educated” phase. Definitely subscribed!!! 😁
This is solid. Thank you!
My "tool belt" is so full thanks to you Neil:)))
Thanks a bunch!
Vickie - thanks for watching!
Excellent Presentation! I really enjoy your blog! I am learning so much! Kudos to you! Thank you!😊😊😊
thank you for watching - glad you enjoy it libre alma!
One great video I would love to see is your analysis of the 3 platform chassis and reliability, service cost differences between them, ease of servicing when on the road. This is because I’ve heard nightmare stories about the Sprinter breakdowns and getting them service by Mercedes dealers in obscure areas of the US. Ford and RAM service centers are more readily available. And I’ve heard and read articles on each platforms discussion groups of commercial Van owners around performance and why they went with their van choice. Especially interesting were the RAM Promaster feeds. Having owned a RAM truck previously (diesel) I loved how much they favored the Promaster and they were very detailed on why.
noted!
Great video Neil,very informative thanks.
hi chris - thank you for watching!
Great video Father..
OMG! I went through this today and I walked away or rather fled!
Though this is video is from an earlier time, I have been watching your videos and subscribed as we are now looking for a "B", though used (can't afford new.) I think one of the tactics used more and more is for the salesman to start the negotiation with "What do you want your monthly payment to be?" I've repeatedly had this experience with auto purchases.
Thanks. This was great to watch.
WOW awesome insight! Thank you.
I've seen your videos and learned a lot, must say you also have a pleasant voice, so thank you for your work. :)
"Ana that's so kind of you say. Thank you so much and thank you for watching my videos!" he said in his most pleasant voice ;-)
You are a fantastic salesman
Way better than I thought this would be, I've bought many many many cars used and some of these never even popped up on my radar. Thanks!
Glad you liked it!
Very, very good. Learned a ton in just one video.
After watching 4 or 5 super helpful videos, I subscribed. Keep up the great work!
why thank you very very much and please consider joining my community: www.ultramobility.co/ultramobility-community
great video. thanks for the advice. helped out greatly
Thank you so much for your video. I'm outside your demographic as I'm looking at the EPro 15TB... small enough to feel comfortable, big enough to cook inside :-) I'm excited to learn more from you.
Totally a big help and a reminder of what most dealers are like for any transportation !
hi patty - thank you for the comment and for watching my videos!
Great video however, I'm wondering if these tips still apply in 2021 with no inventory to be 'left over' in June/July. Nothing on the lots and manufacturers scrambling to fill orders. I think much of a customers negotiating power is out the window for the foreseeable future. Perhaps you can do an updated version of this topic of how to negotiate in these lean times?
Currently May/2023; thats not the case anymore. RV manufacturers have either stopped or slowed builing RV’s, waiting to dealers to sell some stock. I was at a major dealer recently and even though she was pushing “manufacturers cannot keep up demand”, I knew that was a lie. Plus their lot was FULL of RV’s. I didnt see one empty spot. She offered 10k less than MSRP. I knew I could get a better deal. I didn't even counteroffer. I nicely walked out with the deal printed out and waited for her call, which happened the next day. If they were in such high demand, she wouldn't be calling me for a sale. I told her I knew MSRP is already inflated, so the 10k off, was not such a great deal. I told her I won't negotiate over the phone, but that I would stop in with my offer. And then she went down the road of “it may sell before you get here”🙄. I don't care, I'll pick another one from your amazingly stocked inventory😂.
Good job and thanks for the hints. I will wait until June. Thanks again
Have fun!
valuable and well presented information
Very helpful, many great ways to deal with everything involved in buying an RV👍
glad you've found it helpful!
Neil awesome video and great insight ! Thanks again.
many thanks to you for watching mpgolfzen!
Great video as I work to get “smart” on RVs!
Glad you like it Agent 99.
That was a great video demonstration, thank you for sharing your tips and knowledge. So you only deal with the specific class of RV's you tutored us on?
Kind regards, Eric Dee.
i would give my right leg to get a 2020 refresher on this thanks bud. first time subscriber here!
awwww sorry so late in responding. maybe i’ll do a refresher
I really appreciate your well researched videos. Thx
thank you very much Gil!
I like price negotiating about as much as a colonoscopy. I'm not sure if will even get an RV but they are interesting vehicles when done right. Nice reviews.
Thanks for the excellent tips! Thumbs up!
many thanks for the thumbs up xiang huang!
We are new to RVing and plan to purchase a Pleasure-Way van in the next few months. I have watched lots of videos and yours are especially helpful!! When we get closer to purchasing, I hope you will be able to answer some questions for me. Thank you so much!!
SUPERB video, GREAT way to negotiate- thanks for the info!!!!
Glad you liked it!
Amazingly helpful video... thank you!
Incredibly entertaining video Neil! I couldn’t help but laugh at the “classy rv salesmen” point of view 😀. Sounds very similar to the process of buying a car. I’m hoping you’ll consider doing a future video on buying used vs new and all the things you should take into consideration. Thx for all that you do, these videos are very informative.
really glad you enjoyed it! i enjoyed making it. Just shot it on Friday as I was running behind schedule but it turned out okay I think.
Very helpful info, thank your for sharing, great video.
thanks pj d!
Well done! Solid information.
thank you shadow phantom
This was ridiculously helpful. Thank you!!!
Your videos are great as we prepare for this way of life. 18 mo and counting!!
so great to hear!
Great vid. Thank you. Got me thinking.
Great advice !!
Thankyou so much for making these videos and sharing information. I’m trying to figure which van I want. I really like the Travato 59k. But after listening to you about the CrossFit. I’m interested in it too. Just want a convection oven. It’s odd they didn’t figure out a way to put one in. How is the insulation on the Travato? I’d like to able able to pick up and go any time.
Like the others have stated...great advice....the dealerships will hate you for this...the problem with service if you purchase from another dealer miles away can be an important issue to consider. Thank you!
yep r g a lot of us don't think about this when purchasing but service is important and we all need to take our rigs in on occasion so we need to consider this.
OMG, NEIL! I appreciate your knowledge, your straightforwardness and your sincerity. I am completely green when it comes to purchasing a motor home.
My father recently passed away with dementia and left me with financial obligations and a reverse mortgage on his house, where I currently live. He was a new and used car salesman for a Ford dealership for over 30 years, so I am intensely educated in the realm of negotiation.
My father left me with no money. I am relying on the sale of his house to acquire some funding toward the purchase of a Class C coach.
I'm thinking all I can afford will be something in the 2018 range, where I would like a Class C and will live in it for my remaining years. After the sale of the house, I hope to have $35-40k maximum - financing is not an option and I can't afford an apartment. Since I'm a beginner, I'm not even sure what brands I should focus on.
Even though probably not within my means, I would love to have my coach equipped with solar panels (being almost off grid would be fantastic).
So, Neil, as you are a motor home God, what would be some starting advice? I didn't hesitate to subscribe to your channel - what a fantastic video.
Any advice you could send my way would be appreciated to the fullest.
Thanks so very much, Neil. I feel so fortunate discovering your channel. Dale Doss, jake4622@bellsouth.net
With my sincerest appreciation.
Truly appreciate your informative non-biased videos. Where are you? Hope everything is ok as I have not seen any new programs in awhile.
thank you
This is such a cool channel!
The RV purchasing has changed greatly in 2022. Most are sold before they reach the dealer. Things in this video still hold true for used RV's but the new ones are a whole other story. What I'm getting at is maybe its time for a updated video.
May/2023; Currently thats not true. It has turned into a buyers market.
@@397coney7 Yes, what a difference a year can make.
This is VERY helpful!!
Thank you for this video very insightful.
Great tips
Thanks!
Great advice! Thank you.
you're welcome!
If I was to but I would hire you to do so. Awesome job!!
thanks jerry!
Excellent role play. This is very beneficial.
Keep them coming Neil
lol - i'm trying Rein! I love doing these videos and I'm glad that people find them useful!
Thanks for a very helpful video . Does this also apply to buying an older used class B?
Awesome video!!! Thanks so much for your insight.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the great advice!!!!!😜
Nicely done. Also, it's good to make sure you are financially able to afford the coach. Get a credit check beforehand. It will smooth out the process.
good advice michelle!
Great info. Thank you.
Spot on!! Very 👍good!
Informative and great information.
Glad you enjoyed it
Great video..
Thanks for the tips..✅
You look like a priest in that getup :) The video is hillariously true.
Greetings, I am a subscriber to Ultramobility and appreciate the legwork you put into your reviews, tips and tricks. I am new to RVing and we are considering purchasing either a class B or B+ RV in the near future. I especially enjoyed your Negotiation segment when purchasing a new RV. My question is how is the best way to negotiate with a dealer at an RV show? Usually they advertise a "Show Price" that is supposedly drastically reduced for the Show. Can I use the same process you describe when visiting a dealer? Or are there other tools I could use to work a better deal at a show? Thanks again.
Excellent video. I wished that I had watch this before purchaseing my car. Thanks for sharing.
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent, excellent advises. Thanks
nonnom, thank you very much for watching on this fine Saturday!
Thanks for this one!
thanks for watching!
Thanks for the information.
Looking to purchase a travel trailer this year.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Neil, Thank you for your excellent advice. I am going to change our RV ('motorhome' here in the UK).
Culturally, we Brits are inclined to be slightly over sensitive when it comes to discussing price. I am however, going to embrace your approach. My biggest challenge will, undoubtably be batting off the indignation from the salesman. Having watched your video, I shall now brace myself. But, hey, nothing ventured nothing gained. Thanks again Andrew.
awesome video
Great info!!!
Very helpful! Thank you!