Upsizing or downsizing? A guide to trading your motorhome
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Along with bright flowers and green leaves, spring brings a window of opportunity for motorhome owners looking for a new model.
Whether you’re looking to downsize after the kids have moved away, or after a larger vehicle for a long-haul road trip, it’s important to consider your options carefully. Second-hand motorhomes are an invaluable asset, and can help you secure a fantastic deal on your new van.
Below, we offer some useful tips for showcasing the best of your motorhome and carrying out a successful transaction.
Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStock Photo
Spring is the selling season for motorhomes
Seasonality is a big factor in the market, determining the availability of second-hand motorhomes and their overall value. Spring has traditionally been a very good time to exchange your vehicle as demand for motorhomes increases in anticipation of the warmer months. By preparing your van for a sale within the spring window, you may well find a highly satisfactory offer within a short timeframe.
For many sectors within the UK economy, the ebb and flow of market creates uncertainty and dips in consumer confidence. However, the new and used motorhome market tends to stay relatively consistent and less sensitive to the wider economy. As most motorhome deals aren’t weighed against a more essential purchase, buyers tend to consider the price range rather than actually buying a vehicle or not.
If your second-hand motorhome is well cared for and all documentation is up to date, you should have no problem finding an interested buyer in the springtime. If you have an interested overseas buyer, it’s worthwhile familiarising yourself with tax and VAT regulations, as well as keeping an eye on currency exchange rates.
Safeguarding the value of your motorhome
Before parting with your reliable motorhome and opting for something new, make sure that your vehicle is completely ready for sale. The first port of call should be a comprehensive clean, inside and out. A clean exterior may expose some slight nicks and dents in a well-used motorhome, but a sparkling exterior shows that you’ve made an effort to keep the van in a good condition.
A total spring clean will be in order – shampoo the carpets and upholstery if required, and be thorough when identifying and removing any odours. If you’ve had pets join you on journeys then make sure you remove any pesky hairs in the crevices, as the new owners may have pet allergies. You could get these jobs professionally done, however it’s often much more cost-efficient to put time and effort into cleaning your van.
If you’ve installed any accessories or modifications to your motorhome, don’t be surprised if they don’t add extra value to the sale. These personal and practical touches may work well for you, but to ensure that the new buyer will appreciate them its best to check first. Keep any paperwork, including warranties and instruction manuals, as they may prove invaluable during the handover process.
Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStock Photo
How Simpsons can help you sell your motorhome
We’re always on the lookout for second-hand motorhome, and can promise a streamlined, hassle-free procedure. Chat to one of our exceptional valuers over the phone to discuss a proposed value, and if everything is in order, we can come to your home to collect it ourselves. No need to worry about long drives or unreliable buyers!
To find out more, contact us on 01493 601 696 or sales@simpsonsmotorcaravans.com to speak to one of our friendly and professional team members.