Selling your motorhome can feel bittersweet. It could be because you’re buying one of the best motorhomes and upgrading to a new model or downsizing; alternatively, maybe you’re stepping away from the lifestyle altogether. Whatever the reason, you want to get the best possible value from your motorhome when it’s time to sell.
With some preparation and attention to detail, you can ensure you present your vehicle in the best light, attract genuine buyers and secure the best price. For this article, I assume you are looking to sell privately. Here are my top tips to help you get the best price you can when you’re selling a motorhome.
1 Prepare your paperwork
One of the quickest ways to turn off any buyer is a messy or incomplete set of paperwork.
Buyers want reassurance that the motorhome has been well looked after, and this starts with your service history. Gather every receipt, service record and document that demonstrates regular maintenance. An unbroken service record adds significant value, especially if you’ve had work done by reputable professionals. Even smaller tasks, such
as replacing a leisure battery or servicing the motorhome fridge, will be worth documenting.
Go online to download your MoT history. You can add your MoT Pass/Fail history to the file to tell the ‘story’ of your motorhome’s service history. Check your V5 and confirm that it has the correct address on it. Gather together the instruction manuals for the appliances and the motorhome itself. Buyers are more confident when they know how everything works.
Don’t forget the spare key! Missing keys can be expensive to replace and may deter buyers.
2 Presentation is everything
First impressions really count, which is where cleaning a motorhome comes in – a spotless ‘van is far more likely to catch a buyer’s eye. It’s worth spending the time to give your vehicle a deep clean, inside and out, not forgetting to use the best motorhome cleaner to do so.
Pay attention to the small details, including the sides of the cupboard doors and under the sink plugs – reach for your motorhome vacuum cleaner to get into all of those nooks and crannies too. Don’t overlook the bigger things either, like cleaning carpets, scrubbing sinks and showers, and polishing windows. Then make sure to give it a good airing afterwards.
Consider hiring a professional valeting service to make your ’van really gleam. Even a tired motorhome looks appealing when it’s immaculately clean.
Outside, check for signs of wear and tear. Touch up any minor scratches, clean the awning canopy, and polish exterior trims.
If your motorhome has decals, make sure they’re intact and tidy. Presentation is about giving the impression that the vehicle has been cared for, and all of this effort can add hundreds (if not thousands) to the final price.
Empty the cupboards to create a blank canvas. You might be keen to sell the bits you’ve kitted your motorhome out with like your kettle, toaster and cutlery with the motorhome, but a prospective buyer may not care. Remove these items and present them separately, in plastic crates.
3 Take plenty of photos
Your advert needs to stand out, especially if you’re selling privately. High-quality, well-lit photographs will draw in the buyers.
Start with wide-angle shots of the motorhome from outside, capturing its best angles. Inside, photograph every section, including the kitchen, bathroom, living space and sleeping areas.
Think beyond your ’van’s features – what would be its selling points that would jump out if you were looking at buying a used motorhome? How can you show its potential? If you’ve taken photos of it on holidays, include these, too. A shot of it parked beside a scenic lake or on a sunny campsite adds personality to the listing and reassures buyers you’ve genuinely used and enjoyed it.
This is especially important these days, when scams are rife; being able to see your motorhome in real-life settings helps to build buyers’ trust.
Remember to highlight any special features, too. Have you got a motorhome bike rack, solar panel or upgraded upholstery? Show it off in detail.
There is very good evidence from selling platforms, such as AutoTrader, that listings providing a minimum of 42 pictures do better than those with fewer. Photos taken on a smartphone are fine, but keep the background minimalist.
4 Write a comprehensive and honest description
A well-written listing description makes all the difference. Be detailed but concise, and focus on what sets your motorhome apart.
Mention the make, model, year, mileage and key features. Include details of its service history, upgrades and recent maintenance work. List the gross weight and length.
Be honest about any issues – if there’s a scuff on a cupboard or a squeaky hinge, mention it.
A transparent and open description builds trust and reduces the likelihood of wasted time with tyre-kickers or price negotiations later on.
Use the description to paint a picture. Describe what makes your ’van unique and why you loved owning it. Buyers will be looking for more than a vehicle – they want to imagine themselves enjoying the same adventures that you’ve had.
5 Set a realistic price
Do your research to find out how much similar motorhomes are selling for. Factors such as make, model, age, mileage and condition all play their part in determining its value. Check out online listings, visit dealers, or use valuation tools.
Don’t put an unrealistically high price on your ’van – it could deter interest. At the same time, undervaluing it will leave money on the table. Setting a fair, competitive price will attract serious buyers and give you room to negotiate.
Remember, private sales are seen as attracting a lower asking price than dealers’. Advertised prices do not reflect the actual sale price, either.
6 Be available and personable
When potential buyers get in touch, be ready to respond quickly and professionally. Whether answering questions, arranging viewings, or taking phone calls, your attitude can influence the sale.
If you’re selling privately, be prepared to meet buyers in person and show them around the motorhome. Ensure you know its features and history – this will reassure buyers and boost their confidence in you as a seller.
7 Timing is key
Selling at the right time of year can affect the final price. Spring and early summer are often peak times as buyers think about the new season. Listing your motorhome then could help you to achieve a higher price than in winter.
8 Consider your selling platform
Where you list your motorhome matters. Selling to a dealer can be quicker and easier, but you may get a lower price.
Selling privately through online platforms such as Autotrader or Facebook Marketplace can yield a better return, but will require more effort, and can involve costs for advertising.
Final thoughts
Selling your motorhome is as much about the preparation as it is about finding the right buyer. You’ll attract genuine customer interest and achieve the best possible price by presenting a well-maintained, clean vehicle with a complete service history, backed up by great photos and an honest description. So roll up your sleeves, dust off that service book and show your ’van in its very best light. That way, you’ll pass it on to new adventures while maximising your return – a win-win scenario for everyone!
If you’re not planning on selling your motorhome just yet, don’t miss my 10 top tips for greener driving – it can help you get better fuel efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint.
You can find out more about me and listen to my podcast at motorhomematt.co.uk
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