The depreciation cliff
| Age | Travel trailer | Class C | Class A diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year | ~70% of MSRP | ~75% | ~80% |
| 3 years | ~55% | ~62% | ~70% |
| 5 years | ~45% | ~52% | ~60% |
| 10 years | ~28% | ~35% | ~42% |
The sweet spot for most buyers is a 3 to 5 year old unit: the first owner absorbed the steepest drop, appliances and tires still have life, and floorplans are current.
Inspect for water before anything else
Water intrusion destroys more RVs than engines do. Pay $300 to $800 for an NRVIA-certified inspection with a moisture meter. Soft spots in the floor, delaminated sidewalls, stained ceiling panels near vents, or cracked roof sealant are grounds to walk, not to haggle.
Budget the extras before you set your offer
- Tires age out at five to seven years regardless of tread: $1,200 to $4,000 for a set.
- House batteries: $200 to $1,200.
- Roof reseal: $500 to $1,500, needed every few years.
- Hitch, brake controller, and weight-distribution setup: $600 to $1,800.
- Insurance, storage, and registration: often $150 to $400 per month combined.
What to actually offer
Start from NADA low retail rather than average retail, subtract inspection findings and any tires or batteries due, and expect to settle 10 to 20 percent under a private asking price. Dealers on used units have more room than they claim, especially in autumn when inventory sits.