How to Find the Value of a Fifth-Wheel Camper
Designed with an extra room that projects forward over the bed of the truck when being towed, fifth-wheel campers are the most spacious of all travel trailers. The design also sets the trailer's hitch-point in bed of the pickup, over the truck's rear axle, making it more maneuverable than a standard trailer. Because of these advantages, fifth-wheel camper prices and popularity tend to be higher than other RVs in their class. Whether buying or selling a new or used unit you will need to know how to find the value of a fifth-wheel camper to get the best price.
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Instructions
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Compare the unit with similar, comparably equipped fifth-wheel campers of the same year, size and manufacture that are for sale, or have sold recently. Shop several dealers for new units. Check online and in newspapers for used options.
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Look up the value in a RV pricing guide-book. The North American Automobiles Association (NADA) publishes a recreation vehicle guide, both in print and online.
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Obtain an appraisal from an unbiased source. Most dealers will offer a no-cost appraisal on a used vehicle.
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Calculate the depreciation on a used unit by finding out what the unit sold for new. Fifth wheels depreciation lists at about 30 percent during the first two years and roughly five percent per year after that, until they are about 10 years old. After 10 years, subtract about three percent per year.
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Tips & Warnings
Unlike automobiles, new RV prices are not openly available to consumers. If you are purchasing from a dealer always negotiate the price down as markup can be a high as 30 percent.
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Resources
- Photo Credit lake mead national recreation area 14 image by Jim Parkin from Fotolia.com
