Do RVs Hold Their Value? Everything You Need to Know

Ever wonder what happens to your RV’s value after you buy it? While most people focus on features and floor plans, resale value often flies under the radar.

But it matters a lot. Some RVs lose their value quickly, while others hold up surprisingly well over time. Knowing which is which can save you thousands down the line.

In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of RV depreciation and provide you with the insights needed to make an informed decision.

What Does “Holding Value” Mean for RVs?

RVs, like other vehicles, depreciate over time, but what does ‘holding value’ mean in this context? Essentially, an RV that holds its value retains a significant portion of its original purchase price over time, making it a more valuable asset for resale.The concept of holding value is closely tied to depreciation.

Depreciation refers to the decrease in an RV’s value due to factors like age, usage, and market conditions. To better understand what affects an RV’s ability to hold its value, let’s examine some critical factors:

Brand and Model: Certain RV brands and models are known for retaining their value better than others.
Condition and Maintenance: The condition of an RV plays a significant role in its resale value. Regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help preserve its value.
Age and Mileage: As with any vehicle, the age and mileage of an RV impact its value. Newer RVs with lower mileage typically retain their value better.
Market Demand: Market demand can fluctuate based on various factors, including economic conditions, seasonal variations, and consumer preferences. Understanding trends like the average age of RV buyers helps predict resale demand.

How Much Do RVs Depreciate Over Time?

If you’re considering purchasing an RV, it’s essential to know how its value will change over time. RVs, or recreational vehicles, are significant investments for many people, used for vacations, road trips, and even full-time living.

Understanding the depreciation of RVs helps you make informed decisions about your purchase, maintenance, and potential resale.

RV Depreciation Compared to Cars

RVs, on the other hand, may depreciate at a slower rate, depending on factors like maintenance, usage, and the type of RV.

Both RVs and cars lose value over time, but their depreciation patterns aren’t identical.
Cars typically experience steep depreciation early on — some losing as much as 40% of their value within the first three years. This rapid loss is largely due to mass production, constant new model releases, and heavy daily use.

RVs, on the other hand, often depreciate more gradually, although they are not immune to value loss. The rate of RV depreciation depends heavily on factors like build quality, maintenance, mileage, storage conditions, and type of RV (motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, etc.). Well-cared-for RVs may hold their value better than cars, especially when usage is moderate and maintenance is consistent.

Year-by-Year Depreciation Curve

RV depreciation isn’t linear — it tends to be front-loaded, meaning the biggest drop in value happens early. Here’s how it typically looks:

First Year: New RVs usually lose 20–30% of their original value as soon as they leave the dealership lot.
Years 2–5: Depreciation continues but at a slower pace, with an additional 5–10% loss per year depending on usage and condition.
After Year 5: The rate of decline flattens, and RVs start to stabilize in value, especially if they are well-maintained and upgraded.
Beyond Year 10: Depreciation slows significantly, but very old RVs may lose value primarily based on physical condition rather than age alone.

When Do RVs Stop Depreciating?

RVs generally stop depreciating significantly after 5 to 10 years, depending on their condition, maintenance, and original quality.

Well-maintained RVs from reputable manufacturers can retain more value and life expectency. Factors such as upgrades, low mileage, and thorough maintenance records can contribute to a higher resale value.

Type of RV	Year 1	Year 2	Year 3	Year 4	Year 5
Class A Motorhomes	25%	18%	12%	8%	5%
Class C Motorhomes	22%	15%	10%	7%	4%
Travel Trailers	20%	12%	8%	5%	3%
Class B Motorhomes	24%	16%	11%	6%	4%

Which RVs Hold Their Value Best?

If you’re planning to buy an RV, knowing which ones hold their value best can save you money in the long run. The resale value of RVs can vary significantly based on several factors, including their class, brand, and model.

Class A vs. Class B vs. Travel Trailers

When it comes to RVs, the class and type play a significant role in determining their resale value. Class A motorhomes, known for their luxury and size, tend to depreciate faster than smaller, more fuel-efficient options like Class B vehicles.

Travel trailers, on the other hand, offer a wide range of resale values depending on their size, features, and brand.

Class A motorhomes: While they offer luxurious amenities, their larger size and higher initial cost contribute to a faster depreciation rate.
Class B vehicles: These are often preferred for their compact size and better fuel economy, potentially retaining their value better than Class A.
Travel trailers: Their resale value can vary widely. High-end models with premium features tend to hold their value better.

High-Resale Brands and Models

Some RV brands and models are renowned for their ability to retain value over time. Brands like Airstream, Scamp, and Casita are often cited for their high resale value.

Airstream: Known for their iconic design and quality construction, Airstream trailers tend to hold their value exceptionally well.
Scamp: These small, lightweight trailers are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and can retain a significant portion of their original price.
Casita: Casita travel trailers are another example of RVs that maintain their value due to their durable construction and compact size.

Do Older RVs Retain Value Better?

The age of an RV is a critical factor in its resale value. Generally, newer models depreciate more rapidly in the first few years of ownership.

However, certain older models, especially those from reputable brands, can still retain a significant portion of their value if well-maintained.

Older RVs that are meticulously maintained and updated can offer great value to buyers looking for a more affordable entry into RV ownership.

The key is to ensure that any older RV has been properly cared for, with regular maintenance and any necessary repairs addressed.

Understanding how age, brand, and condition influence long-term value is an important part of making a well-informed RV purchase, especially when weighing different models, features, and price points.

What Affects RV Resale Value the Most?

The resale value of your RV is affected by several key factors that you should be aware of. Understanding these elements can help you make informed decisions when buying, maintaining, or selling your RV.

Timing the Market: Best Time to Buy and Sell

The timing of your purchase and sale can significantly impact your RV’s resale value. Buying during peak season or when prices are high can work in your favor when you decide to sell.

Sell during peak season (summer or holidays) when demand is high.
Avoid selling during off-peak seasons when possible.
Consider the economic climate and RV market trends.

Age, Mileage, and Condition

The age, mileage, and overall condition of your RV are critical factors in determining its resale value. Generally, newer RVs with lower mileage and well-maintained condition retain their value better.

Factor	Impact on Resale Value
Age	Newer RVs (less than 5 years old) typically hold value better.
Mileage	Lower mileage RVs are generally more desirable.
Condition	Well-maintained RVs with regular servicing retain higher value.

Storage, Maintenance, and Repairs

How an RV is stored, maintained, and repaired over its lifetime directly affects its long-term value and reliability.
Storage:
Proper storage protects your RV from weather damage, UV deterioration, moisture buildup, and pest infestations. Ideally, RVs should be kept in covered, climate-controlled, or well-ventilated storage facilities when not in use. Outdoor exposure without protection can rapidly accelerate wear and tear.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance — like engine servicing, roof inspections, tire replacements, and appliance checks — keeps your RV running safely and preserves its value. Well-maintained RVs not only experience fewer breakdowns but also fetch significantly higher resale prices.
Repairs:
Addressing minor repairs quickly prevents small problems from becoming costly structural or mechanical issues. Whether it’s a small roof leak, a faulty slide-out, or worn seals, prompt attention can save thousands of dollars down the road.

Can You Buy an RV, Use It for a Year, and Sell Without Major Loss?

The prospect of buying, using, and selling an RV within a short timeframe raises concerns about potential financial losses.

Buying Used Privately for Better Resale Margin

One strategy to minimize losses when buying and selling an RV within a short period is to purchase a used RV privately. Buying from a private seller can offer better resale margins compared to purchasing from a dealership. This is because private sellers often list their RVs at competitive prices, and you can negotiate directly with them.

When buying a used RV privately, it’s crucial to inspect the vehicle thoroughly and review its maintenance history. This due diligence can help you avoid purchasing an RV with hidden problems, which can significantly reduce its resale value.

Risks with Short-Term RV Ownership

Short-term RV ownership comes with its own set of risks, including depreciation, wear and tear, and market fluctuations.

RVs depreciate rapidly in the first few years, and short-term ownership means you’ll likely sell during this period of significant depreciation.

Depreciation: RVs lose a substantial portion of their value within the first few years.
Wear and Tear: Frequent use can lead to increased wear and tear, reducing the RV’s resale value.
Market Fluctuations: Changes in market demand can affect the resale price of your RV.

The COVID Market Anomaly

The COVID-19 pandemic created an unusual RV market anomaly, characterized by a surge in demand and prices. During this time, many RVs sold for higher prices than their original purchase price, even after short-term ownership. However, this was an exceptional circumstance, and the market has since normalized.

Understanding that such market anomalies are rare, it’s essential to be cautious when making decisions based on extraordinary market conditions. While it’s possible to make a profit during a seller’s market, it’s not a reliable long-term strategy.

How to Maximize RV Resale Price

When you decide to resell your RV, you want to ensure you get the best possible price for it. This involves understanding what potential buyers are looking for and preparing your RV accordingly.

Upgrades and Improvements That Add Value

Upgrading certain features in your RV can significantly increase its resale value. Focus on improvements that are both functional and appealing to potential buyers. Some key areas to consider include:

Upgrading appliances to more modern or energy-efficient models
Enhancing interior comfort with new furnishings or decor
Improving the RV’s technology, such as installing a new infotainment system or solar panels
Renovating the bathroom or kitchen to make them more functional and appealing

It’s essential to balance the cost of these upgrades with the potential return on investment. Not all upgrades will recoup their full cost at resale, so prioritize those that are most likely to appeal to buyers.

Presentation & Listing Strategy

How you present your RV and where you list it can greatly impact its resale price. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions are crucial for attracting potential buyers. Consider the following strategies:

Use well-lit, high-resolution photos that showcase both the interior and exterior of the RV.
Write a detailed and honest description of the RV’s condition, features, and any upgrades.
List your RV on multiple platforms to reach a wider audience, including specialized RV marketplaces and general online classifieds.
Consider staging your RV to make it more appealing, such as setting up a welcoming living area or showcasing outdoor features.

By focusing on these areas, you can effectively maximize your RV’s resale price and attract serious buyers.

Final Thoughts: Is an RV a Smart Financial Decision?

When considering the purchase of an RV, it’s essential to evaluate whether it’s a smart financial decision for you. Your decision hinges on how you view an RV – as a lifestyle asset or a potential investment.

Lifestyle vs. Investment

For many, an RV represents a lifestyle choice, enabling freedom to travel and explore new places. If you plan to use your RV frequently, it can be a valuable lifestyle asset, providing countless memories and experiences.

However, viewing an RV as a straightforward investment is more complex. While some RVs, like Airstream, retain their value over time, depreciation is a significant factor to consider in your financial decision.

Renting as an Alternative

If you’re unsure about the frequency of use or the financial commitment, renting an RV could be a more sensible option.

Renting allows you to enjoy the RV lifestyle without the long-term financial burden. This approach can be particularly beneficial if you’re testing the waters or have budget constraints.

When you’re ready to buy, store, or resell your RV, RecNation offers secure RV storage solutions to protect your investment year-round.

FAQ

What factors affect an RV’s resale value?

Several factors can impact an RV’s resale value, including its age, mileage, condition, number of previous owners, storage, maintenance, and repairs. Additionally, the type of RV, its brand, and its model can also influence its resale value.

How much do RVs depreciate over time?

RVs depreciate at varying rates, but most tend to lose a significant portion of their value within the first few years of ownership. The depreciation rate can be influenced by factors such as the type of RV, its condition, and market demand.

Which type of RV holds its value best?

Class A motorhomes, particularly luxury models, and certain travel trailers like Airstream tend to hold their value better than other types of RVs. However, the resale value can vary depending on the specific model, brand, and condition.

Can I buy, use, and sell an RV within a year without losing much?

While it’s possible to buy, use, and sell an RV within a year, it’s challenging to do so without incurring significant losses. Factors like depreciation, market conditions, and the RV’s condition can impact its resale value.

How can I maximize my RV’s resale price?

To maximize your RV’s resale price, consider making upgrades and improvements that add value, maintaining the RV’s condition, and presenting it well when listing it for sale. Choosing the right sales platforms and providing high-quality photos can also help.