Last Updated on If you’re currently Googling “sell my motorhome”, you’re in for an exciting yet daunting process. Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new model, upgrading to a larger size, or even downsizing for convenience, the process of selling a motorhome involves more than just finding a buyer. This guide will take you through all the steps of selling a motorhome, from valuation to closing the deal.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free process, you can always sell with us at Oaktree Motorhomes for a smooth experience.
How to Value Your Motorhome
Before you begin selling your motorhome, the first step is understanding its current value. Proper valuation helps ensure you get a fair price. So how do you accurately determine what your motorhome is worth? Let’s break it down.
Factors Influencing Value
Several factors influence the value of your motorhome, including age, mileage, condition, and brand. High-end models or well-maintained motorhomes tend to fetch better prices, while older vehicles or those with significant wear and tear will naturally depreciate.
Additional features such as solar panels, upgraded interiors, or modern appliances can also increase the value. When researching, consider using a motorhome valuation guide to gauge where your vehicle stands in the market. You should also think about:
Motorhome Depreciation
Just like any other vehicle, motorhomes depreciate over time. However, some models keep their value better than others, depending on their motorhome depreciation rate. Popular brands like Auto-Trail or A-Class motorhomes tend to retain more value, thanks to their quality construction and reliable performance. If you’ve kept up with regular maintenance and avoided heavy wear and tear, you might see a better return.
Market Research
To get the best idea of how much you can expect to sell your motorhome for, look at the current market. Check listings of similar motorhomes for sale, consult a motorhome valuation guide, or even ask a professional dealer for their opinion. This will help you set a competitive yet reasonable price. If you’re wondering, “How much can I sell my motorhome UK for?” the market will give you the answer.
Selling Methods
Once you’ve valued your motorhome, it’s time to decide how to sell it. The method you choose can impact both the time it takes to sell and the amount you ultimately receive. Let’s explore the main methods.
Part Exchange
Part exchange is a popular choice for those looking to sell quickly and conveniently. If you’re looking to trade up for a new vehicle, part exchange allows you to sell your motorhome while simultaneously purchasing another one. Even so, while this method is fast and ensures you’re never without a vehicle, it’s not always the most lucrative option.
Dealers tend to offer less than the market value because they handle the sale of your old motorhome while securing your new one. For convenience, however, many choose part exchange as the easiest way to sell motorhome or sell campervan quickly. That doesn’t always make it the best option.
Sell to a Dealer
If you’d prefer cash and want to avoid the hassle of private selling, consider selling to a dealer. Many dealerships, like us at Oaktree Motorhomes, offer a quick and hassle-free process. If all goes smoothly, you can receive cash for your motorhome in record time.
For motorhome owners looking to sell and upgrade immediately, this is a great option. If you’re one of those sellers, you should check out our motorhomes for sale or campervan for sale listings, so we can help you to transition smoothly into a new vehicle.
All that aside, selling to a dealer sometimes means a lower sale price than if you were to decide, “Hey, I’m going to sell my campervan privately”, but it depends on the dealer. Some dealers even offer free home collection or help with settling any remaining finance. If speed and ease are your priorities, this could be the best way to go when selling a motorhome in the UK.
Use a Broker
If all your mindset is “I want someone to sell my motorhome for me”, then a broker is a solid option. A motorhome broker acts as a middleman to help you get a better price while handling the nitty-gritty details of the sale. Brokers may offer a higher return than dealers, as they work to find a buyer willing to pay more for your motorhome.
While brokers typically charge a fee, they also take away much of the stress involved in selling your motorhome. Services can include cleaning, storage, and even handling the paperwork for you. This option might take longer than selling to a dealer, but you’ll potentially walk away with more cash in your pocket.
Sell Privately
If maximising your profit is your main goal, then selling privately is the best option. When you sell your campervan privately, there are no middlemen, and you have complete control over the price and negotiations. In other words, no fees and no compromising.
However, private selling comes with challenges. You’ll need to handle the marketing, answer inquiries, and deal with potential buyers yourself. Plus, some buyers may try to haggle you down or cause complications during the sale. Be aware of scammers or thieves who sometimes target private sellers, and always meet potential buyers in safe, public places.
Preparing for Sale
Now it’s time for the preparation stage of the “sell my motorhome” journey! To get the best price, you’ll need to put in some effort to make your motorhome as appealing as possible to buyers. Here’s what you should do to prepare:
Cleaning and Detailing
First impressions matter. Give your motorhome a thorough clean, both inside and out. Pay attention to detailing, like wiping down surfaces, cleaning upholstery, and washing the exterior. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service if necessary, as this will make your motorhome more attractive to buyers and justify a higher asking price.
Servicing and MOT
A well-serviced motorhome is much easier to sell. Ensure your motorhome has a full MOT and consider scheduling a service check to fix any issues beforehand. A clean bill of health, including a recent habitation check, gives buyers confidence that the motorhome is in top condition.
Repairing Minor Issues
Fix any minor issues that could devalue your motorhome. Small repairs, like fixing leaky faucets, patching up upholstery, or replacing old tires, can make a huge difference in how your motorhome is perceived by buyers. In other words, the more work you’re willing to do beforehand, the more return you’ll see.
Removing Personal Items and Additions
Before you sell, make sure to remove all personal items and any custom additions that may not appeal to every buyer. Buyers tend to prefer a blank slate they can picture themselves in. Therefore, removing your personal touch is key to selling your motorhome quickly, especially if it’s a very “niche” addition.
Organising and Presenting Paperwork
Make sure all paperwork is in order before selling. This includes the logbook (V5C), service history, manuals, and any documentation related to repairs or upgrades. Buyers will want proof that your motorhome has been well cared for, so organizing this in advance can speed up the process.
What to Do After the Sale
Once the sale is complete, you should:
- Notify the DVLA of the change in ownership.
- If your motorhome is financed, settle any outstanding payments.
- Remove the motorhome from any insurance policies and cancel associated warranties.
FAQs
How easy is it to sell a motorhome?
Selling a motorhome can be straightforward if you choose the right method. Selling privately may take longer but often yields a higher price, while selling to a dealer or through a broker provides quicker, hassle-free sales. The condition and demand for your motorhome can also impact how quickly you sell it.
What is the best month to sell a motorhome?
The best time to sell a motorhome is during the spring and summer months when the demand for outdoor adventures is higher. Buyers tend to look for motorhomes in time for holidays and road trips. Therefore, selling during peak travel seasons can help you secure a better price.
Do motorhomes hold their value?
Motorhomes depreciate over time, but some models, particularly well-maintained or popular ones, hold their value better than others. Regular servicing and maintenance, along with desirable features, can help preserve your motorhome’s resale value. However, like all vehicles, motorhomes will gradually lose value as they age.
