Explore The Benefits of Owning a Used Motorhome

Sometimes, the decision you must make between buying a brand-new motorhome or a buying a used one can be taxing. There are major benefits to buying new, and the advantages of choosing a used motorhome can often be overlooked – so, when your own personal crunch time comes, which should you opt for? In this blog we are going to explore the benefits of owning a used motorhome.

Cost Savings

One of the most immediate benefits when you buy a used motorhome is the significant cost saving, you’re likely to make. Just like cars, new motorhomes depreciate in value almost as soon as they’re off the forecourt – and so, when you buy a used motorhome, you avoid this initial reduction in value. In effect you’ll get much better value pound for pound when you buy a used model. Even despite the lower cost many used motorhomes are still in excellent condition, with perhaps only minor cosmetic wear. The reduced cost also opens the door to a wider variety of models than may otherwise have been available from new within your budget.

Variety and Availability

The market for used motorhomes is vast, which means you have a really wide range of options when it comes to the different makes, models and configurations available to you. Unlike new motorhomes, where you could be limited by the current year’s available models, the abundance of models from previous years at used motorhome dealers means you should easily be able to find one that suits your budget and your specific needs.

There are also two sides of a particular coin which offer a win for those buying a used model. Theoretically, a top end used model will cost the same as a middle range brand new model – so, therefore, the used model will feature higher specification per pound of your money. Plus, some older motorhomes might feature layouts or design options that you’re really attracted to, but which are no longer available in newer models. Perhaps you’ve been looking for a particular bed configuration, kitchen set-up or bathroom layout. You’re likely to find it in the used market as there is more vehicle diversity.

Tested and Reliable

Used motorhomes have already been ‘broken in’ like a good pair of shoes. It’s been out and about and any initial issues will have been addressed by the previous owner, and you’re less likely to encounter any unexpected problems. Additionally, a motorhome that has had a previous owner (or owners) will come with a known track record. Many used motorhomes are sold with service records and maintenance histories, so you can get peace of mind that it’s been well taken care of. By choosing a used motorhome that has been cared for, you’ll be able to enjoy a dependable vehicle at a fraction of the price of a new one.

Lower Insurance

Insurance premiums for used motorhomes tend to be lower than those for brand new models. This is mostly because the value of the vehicle is lower, so the risk to the insurer is deemed to have been reduced. For first-time motorhome buyers, lower insurance costs can be quite a significant advantage, as the impact of ongoing motorhome ownership costs is reduced. In addition to the basic insurance premiums, vehicle tax bands in the UK are influenced by factors such as CO2 emissions, engine size and the vehicle’s age. Older vehicles sometimes fall into lower tax brackets, which offers even more savings over time.

Eco-Friendly

A used motorhome can also be viewed as an eco-friendly choice – which is important in this era of doing your bit for the environment. While new vehicles may come with the latest emissions technology, the actual production of a new motorhome will probably have consumed a large amount of energy and resources. When you opt to buy a used model, you’re extending its life and reducing the demand for new production. It may not seem like a great deal, but millions of these ‘micro-choices’ combine to form a bigger movement towards a conscious way of living. By reusing and repurposing, you’re contributing to the global reduction in waste, and promoting a circular economy. This could be one of the most important main reasons for choosing a used motorhome.

Personalisation

Another big thing about buying a used motorhome is that you’ll feel more comfortable customising or personalising it to your taste. You may want to install solar panels, upgrade the upholstery or redesign the kitchen area – and buying used gives you the freedom to do so. You’ve already saved money when buying the vehicle, so you can much more justifiably create a space that reflects your personality and travel style.

Resale Value

Used motorhomes hold their value more steadily and so, if you decide to sell yours after a few years, you’re more likely to recoup a larger portion of your initial investment than if you’d bought a brand new model. If you’re a newbie and are looking at motorhome ownership as a stepping stone or a way to sample the lifestyle before fully committing, this can be an important consideration.

Lower Risk

If you’re not sure that the motorhome lifestyle is right for you, buying used is a lower-risk investment as it allows you to try out the experience with less financial input. If, in the unlikely event that you find motorhome travel is not for you, it’s easier to sell a used vehicle without incurring significant financial losses. The other side of this is, of course, if you buy a used model, try it out and discover that the motorhome lifestyle is to your liking, you can always upgrade to a newer model!

From cost savings and variety of models available to the opportunity to personalise as well as enjoy lower insurance costs, you’re sure to find your own favourite aspect of owning a used motorhome – other than the motorhome itself, of course!