The first step to sell your RV is to determine the RV trade-in value. Figuring out RV trade-in value starts at home, with an inspection of your unit and proper research. Here at Crossroads Trailer Sales, we want to make sure you get a good price for your used RV. We’ll guide you through the main steps you’ll take to determine how much your travel trailer or motorhome might be worth.

What’s My RV Trade-In Value?

Ask the Experts

The first thing you’ll do when determining your RV trade-in value is consult NADA, the National Automobile Dealers Association. Similar to the Kelly Blue Book for cars, the Dealer NADA RV price book is often consulted by dealers looking at purchasing your RV. Search units by year, make and model to find trade-in and retail value. Outside of the official NADA value, there are other sites that will help you determine your RV trade-in value. Use RV Trader’s Price Checker and Good Sam’s RV Valuator for a better idea of how much your unit is worth.

Row of fifth wheels on a lot. Comparison is a great way to determine RV trade-in value.

Popular Opinion

Your next consideration is a little more difficult. It’s based on personal opinions rather than a research tool. You’ll need to consider the popularity of your RV’s make and model. Most dealers want an RV they can sell quickly; they’ll consider the floorplan, unit type, year and more. Some RV models are known to have problems, so make sure to do your research. If your model and year are known to have stuck slide-outs or water leaks, it’ll probably be worth less than similar models.

Review RV Condition

Now, think objectively about the condition of your RV. This could be difficult if it holds sentimental value or fond memories, but it’s essential to take a step back and objectively consider your RV trade-in value. Note any surface-level issues, like broken cabinetry, chipped paint or stained floors. You should also disclose any issues with the functionality of your RV. Let the dealership know about any leaks or malfunctioning features. The last thing to consider is milage, more miles on an RV will decrease its resale value.

Consider the Competition

There are plenty of places where people buy and sell RVs online. To help find your RV trade-in value you should look at what similar units sell for. Start by checking other dealerships, especially in the area you’re planning to trade. You can also look at what people selling their units themselves are listing them for by checking places like Facebook Marketplace. Look at similar RVs for sale and consider their condition. This gives you a rough idea of what your RV’s worth might be.

RV Appraisals

If online research doesn’t result in the answers you need, consider hiring someone for a professional appraisal. A local RV mechanic or dealership might offer appraisal services, and multiple opinions is the best way to really understand how much your unit is worth. Keep in mind, these appraisals may cost you a couple hundred dollars. Therefore, this method is probably better if you’re looking to sell or trade a high-end RV.  

Get the Most Cash for Your RV

Clean the Camper

Before you take any photos of the RV, bring it to a dealership to sell, or even show up to an appraisal, make sure your unit is spotless. A dirty camper makes it appear mistreated. People will likely pay more for a camper they’re confident has been well taken care of. You can sometimes add a few hundred dollars to your RV trade-in value by cleaning until it looks as good as new.

The Right Timing

If you can wait for the right time of year to sell your camper, do it! When demand is high, like during peak camping seasons, dealerships are willing to pay more for your RV. During spring and summer, people are flooding to dealerships for new and used RVs for sale. This is the perfect time to sell yours for a higher value.

Woman signing paperwork to purchase an RV.

Maintenance Records

Another way to show that your RV is worth more is to provide detailed maintenance records. Show that you’ve taken care of your camper over the years. Show that you put money into keeping your RV in the best shape possible. When you prove that you’ve cared for your RV over the years you can increase its worth.

The time and effort to sell your RV can often be more hassle than purchasing it! With title transfers, wiring money and counting on the couple from Facebook Marketplace to actually show, there are tons of stressors when it comes to selling your RV. Skip the hassle by trading your RV in at Crossroads Trailer Sales. We’ll buy your used RV or help you exchange it for a new unit!

Ready to Trade in Your RV?

Now that you’ve determined what your RV might be worth, contact Crossroads to complete your trade in. We’ll offer you a fair price for your RV trade-in. After you’ve traded in your unit, our staff can help you find a brand-new camper! We carry the top brands in travel trailers and motorhomes, and our expert staff members are ready to help you find the perfect unit for your family.