An RV is a big purchase, so the last thing you want is to overpay. Even though it may be intimidating, putting some time and effort into negotiating can save you some real dough at the closing table. Hone your negotiation skills, and you can put that money you save towards gas, improvements, and deluxe upgrades. After you’ve checked out our tips on how to negotiate during the RV buying process, come see us at Freedom RV in Fresno, serving Modesto, Visalia, and the entire central valley in California!
Do Your Homework
Dedicate some serious time to research. Figure out the RV you want, and check prices at multiple RV dealerships within about 200 miles of your location. Knowing local prices will give you extra leverage when talking to RV dealers.
Shop at an RV Show
Yes, RV manufacturers bring models to sell at these shows, and they really don’t want to deal with the hassle of getting them back to where they came from. Talk turkey with the reps at a show and you might be driving home in a deal!
Arrange Your Own Financing
Organize your own financing before you start shopping. This really demonstrates to dealers that you aren’t just a tire-kicker, which motivates them to lower the purchase price to persuade you to buy.
Seasonal Shopping Pays Off
Because the RV industry is very cyclical, RV prices can change a lot throughout the year. The peak sales period is in the spring, so that’s the hardest time to get big discounts. On the other hand, the season is slowing down in the fall. Dealers may want to get rid of current year models to make room for the new models coming in before the next season. The end of camping season is a good time for a good deal. It’s also true that dealerships may be focused on monthly, quarterly, and yearly goals. If you time your shopping for the end of the month or quarter, they may be more eager to negotiate.
Be Ready to Walk Away
Being prepared to walk is a critical skill in negotiating. While you might be emotionally invested in driving home today in a new RV, being too attached is no way to lower the price. If they can tell you are genuinely prepared to walk, they may entice you with further discounts.
Excited to start practicing? There’s no better place to RV shop in California’s Central Valley than Freedom RV Fresno, near Visalia and Modesto.
