Buying a RV for Retirement

The dream of retiring to an RV lifestyle can be very exciting! Whether you are planning on using your RV for short vacations or living in it for long stretches, there are many things to consider before making a purchase.

Purchasing an RV is a sizable investment. Some pop-up campers will only cost a few thousand dollars, a loaded motorhome, however, can easily cost a half-million or more. This guide will shed some light on what it truly means to own an RV and if it's the right investment for you.

Should I Buy an RV?

You will first need to decide if you are looking to own a motorhome or a trailer home to tow behind a truck. Often individuals who already own a truck may determine the towable option is best since they already have money invested in the truck. If you do not have a truck, and do not foresee yourself purchasing one, than a motorhome would be a more suitable investment. Both the truck and the RV are investments that together could cost upwards of $70,000 or more.

Next consider the wide range of sizes that different recreational vehicles can be, and determine what size you are looking for. If you think you will move into an RV when you retire, you might want to purchase a sizeable 40-foot version because it will have more space and storage. If you plan to take your RV on lots of road trips, you may want to consider a smaller size that will use less gas and fit more comfortably into some campsites.

If you plan to take long trips or live in your RV for extended periods, you may want something appropriate for the various weather conditions and all four seasons. When purchasing, ask the RV dealer if the recreational vehicle is four-season, and inquire about what type of insulation it has.

Pros and Cons of Buying an RV for Retirement

Pros

• Travel where you want. For many people, the best part of owning an RV is the ability to travel when you want and where you want. RVers like going to campgrounds and driving around different towns to meet new people. The number of campgrounds all over the country is growing as they respond to the increase in RVers. The RV industry is pushing to improve, expand, and upgrade campgrounds on federal lands and national parks.

Most individuals dream about traveling around the country to see different things - things they could not do when they were busy with work. After retiring and buying an RV, many can explore the entire country, all the historic sites, and all the natural wonders of the U.S.

• Mobility and flexibility. Owning an RV makes nomadic living simpler since all your personal belongings are already with you, maybe even your pets. RVs create mobility, and if you wish to venture somewhere, you have everything you need right there with you in your vehicle. You just need to fill up the gas tank and buy food.

Cons

• RVs Are Expensive. Purchasing an RVs is a big investment. There's a wide price range when it comes to different sizes and styles. For example, you have Type A motorhomes, which are usually the roomiest and heaviest, can start around $60,000 and can go as high as $500,000 or more. There will be additional costs after the initial purchase to be aware of, such as repairs and maintenance, storage, décor, and insurance.
• RVs depreciate in value. A brand new RV will depreciate rather quickly after purchase. This could make reselling difficult if you change your mind later down the road.
• RVs use a lot of gas. Whether you are driving a motorhome or hauling a heavy trailer, filling up the gas tank will be more expensive than filling up a smaller vehicle..

Takeaway

Whether you have been dreaming about a getaway for a few weeks or retirement on the road, RVs seem like aviable choice these days. Just be sure you weigh out the pros and cons before making your buying decision.