Looks like I'm going to end up going with used

[AsenathBarzani]

Well after all the fuss, the bank denied me financing. I decided that if I'm very careful, and get an inspector, that I used RV is actually a great idea on a number of levels, including that all the off-gassing from the chemicals in the products they use to make them will have already happened, Plus it could be fun like an art project to reupholster and otherwise spruce up and RV. I ended up finding an RV for just $14,000, also from Northwood manufacturing, and just about 15 miles from my home. Plus the owner seems really concerned about cleaning with all natural products and also has a kind of germophobia that made her take really good care of the RV. So I'm going to be checking it out on Thursday and then if I want to move forward, I'm going to have an inspector look at it. Also I am seeing my RV lifestyle in phases. I think the first phase is just going to be living on my property until I can afford a used truck, and then I can start moseying around the country. I'm getting all kinds of good feedback about how to go Scrappy DIY punk rock in my approach to hook ups, like I can just have a big fat long extension cord going from the RV to my outdoor electrical outlets on my house, and have a water hose going into the RV for the water. Seems like the biggest issue is septic, but I'm trying to find a patchwork solution for that as well. I've been talking to a lot of people, which has been really helpful. Anyhow I welcome any thoughts. Everybody's feedback here is always so terrific and has taught me so much.

 

[Laura & Charles]

What year, make, and model is the rig you’ve found?

There’s a lot of folks here that are proponents of buying used over new. We’re in that camp. It seems, more often than not, new RVs come from the factory with a lot of things that aren’t right and need addressed just to make the thing usable. And we hear lots of horror stories about getting warranty work done.

Rosie is our second RV and we bought both used. We’ve been well pleased with the value of both of them and hope you’ll share that once you find and get into your rig. While looking, just remember there’s a LOT of other rigs out there.. don’t be afraid of negotiating the price and walking away. Thanks for taking us along on your journey!

 

[Laura & Charles]

BTW: a big fat extension cord and water hose is how these things are designed to work in campgrounds. There’s a few options for the sewer, too.

 

[SpencerPJ]

Personally I think it is the ideal way to start. Who knows, you could hate it and trust us, RVs depreciate very fast, they are not investments. That said, a used one will hold value if upkept much better than new, and like you said, the issues likely will be worked out. Be careful and let's talk about the fat extension cord. Often the outlet supplying the power is not capable to run the AC, it might need an upgrade. Waste? do you have access to septic or sewer? There are ways to pump the sh** stuff a good distance with a macerator pump (think similar to garbage disposal and decent hose)

 

[Mark_K5LXP]

the bank denied me financing.

Consider that a plus. Between depreciation and interest over the term, financing an RV is a frightening proposition.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

 

[tlmgcamp1]

If you intend to use that "big fat long extension cord" to a standard outlet at the house, don't expect to be able to run the real hungry electrical appliances (air conditioner, microwave, etc) without careful monitoring of the amps you are drawing. The gauge and length of the cord could further restrict how much you can draw.

 

[LarsMac]

starting out with a used unit is a great plan. You'd be amazed at the kinds of problems an inspection can turn up in a new unit.

 

[Kirk]

I decided that if I'm very careful, and get an inspector, that I used RV is actually a great idea

That can be true and often is, especially if you have little knowledge of RVs and RVing. You do need to understand that a certified pre-purchase inspector or a mobile RV tech can do the inspection for you but it will not be cheap. You will probably be paying out at least $300 to $500 for the inspection, depending on the size of the RV and how complete it is. And remember too that the inspector may find some problem that recommends you not buy it.

I think the first phase is just going to be living on my property until I can afford a used truck, and then I can start moseying around the country.

You will need to learn how to use the various appliances in the RV as most do not operate exactly the same as in a house. If you own the property and it has a house it may be wise to stay in the house until you get the RV ready and while you learn how to use it. The toilet works very differently that in a house, you will need a water supply and a place to dump waste tanks as well as electricity. A typical house outlet can supply only about half of what your trailer is wired for, if the trailer has a 30A power cord. The size of the trailer will pay a big part as the RV air conditioners are larger and need more power on larger trailers than on a small one. You also need to keep the size and weight of the trailer in mind when you shop for a truck to tow it. You will also need to fill the propane bottles from time to time, more often in the winter when the furnace is used a lot.

 

[Derby6]

, and have a water hose going into the RV for the water.

Make sure you have a pressure regulator on your hose.

 

[jymbee]

So I'm going to be checking it out on Thursday and then if I want to move forward, I'm going to have an inspector look at it.

Good plan.

Also, given you'll likely be paying a fair amount of $$ for the inspector (professional/accredited?) don't just turn him/her loose and read their summary. Follow them around throughout the process and don't be afraid to ask questions.

A professional inspection, especially for those new to RVing, is one of the best educational experiences you have at your disposal. I know it was for us way back when-- so many questions!