Tips on buying a new motorhome
Deciding to invest in a new motorhome can be quite exciting and often a big step financially, so it is important to do as much research as possible before buying a new motorhome.
Firstly identify your budget and what are you going to use the new motorhome for? Do you fancy spending months enjoying the winter sun in the Mediterranean, only holidaying for a couple of weeks at a time or just weekends away? Will you be travelling mostly in Europe or just in the UK? This could determine whether you buy a left or right-hand drive. It is often cheaper to buy a left-hand drive motorhome in the UK. How many will be occupying the motorhome will ascertain the layout and body type; a single person or a couple may require a van conversion or compact which is usually more spacious but still under 6m long. Whereas the larger coach-built or a Class-A motorhome may be the best choice for a family.
Then read those enthusiast books and magazines on motorhomes, search the internet, attend motorhome shows and exhibitions and take time to talk to motorhome owners. They are often more than happy to discuss their vehicles and could prove invaluable when giving you the practical details on various models, their layouts, running costs, manoeuvrability etc.
When ready to purchase that new motorhome it is often more convenient to buy locally for ease of access, after-all, you probably would not want to travel miles for any after-sales issues. It is important to take your time when buying, do not be pressured by time-limited deals. Test drive the vehicle, making sure that you are comfortable driving it in town as well as those tiny country lanes and try parking it. Have the dealer demonstrate how every accessory works and if possible, hire the vehicle for a weekend to make sure it suits your requirements, for example, does it fit on your drive if you are going to store it at home?
Once you have decided upon your motorhome then haggle with the dealer over those extras that are not included in the price. Compare their finance arrangements with those from other providers and check to see if the dealer offers part-exchange deals, they might accept cars, motorbikes, boats etc.
Remember, there is a vast array of new motorhomes in the marketplace that could suit your needs but at the end of the day, it is for YOU that you are buying the new motorhome and not family and friends!