How To Price Used Campers

There is no big secret, just common sense when it comes to pricing used campers. You simply need to do your research and pay close attention to the used camper market.

There are three steps in pricing used campers.

The first step is to figure out the NADA book value for the used camper. You can visit NADA and select "Recreational Vehicles" to get started. Simply fill out the online form, entering as much detail about the camper as possible. The more detail you add, the more accurate the quote will be. This number should give you a pretty accurate estimate of the value of the camper. Pay close attention to the low and average retail prices.

The second step is to adjust price for any defects or repairs that need to be made to the camper. For instance if the NADA is $5000 for the camper, but the AC doesn't work you will want to deduct $800 from the NADA. Also, if there is damage to the floor you will want to adjust a few hundred dollars to make minor repairs. Many used campers will need a new canvas, negotiate $900 off the NADA for that.

Once you figure out the NADA and subtract a fair estimate for damages or imperfections, you have your fair used camper value.

Next, you need to figure out the supply. You can use online tools like eBay and Craigslist.com to see how many similar used campers are out there in the marketplace. If luck is on your side, there will be plenty. But if you are like me, you will only find a few. When you do find similar campers, write down the prices and compare them to the NADA book and your fair market values. Ideally, you will want to be at or below the NADA value. You never want to be above the NADA value.

You will be at a great advantage if supply is on your side because you can walk away from one deal without sacrificing camper features. If the owner is not budging on price, just move on but always leave your contact information. You'll find that most people with come down on price to move the camper.

You'll also find that most people selling used campers have no idea that NADA for campers exists, so they are way over priced. It's your job to present the data to them and negotiate a fair price for the camper.

For example, I found a 1998 Coleman Westlake on Craigslist this summer. The owner wanted $5,500 for it, which was way higher than the NADA. I spoke with the owner and showed him the true value and some eBay listings for similar campers and he came way down on the price. Actually came a bit below the NADA and I saved a few thousand on the deal.

Do your research, negotiate a price that works for you and close the deal as soon as the price is set. It is critical that you have cash in hand and be ready to purchase when negotiating a price. You don't want the person to sleep on it or get approached with better offers.