Decide whether you want to buy a new RV or a used RV. New Class B RVs are typically between $33,000 and $80,000, but some of the longer ones with slide-outs can be over $100,000. If you buy used, you can often get more RV for your money, so it pays to shop for both used and new RVs.
Get a feel for the variety of floor plans offered in Class B RVs by visiting the dealers in and around Phoenix, including Sun City RVs, Little Dealer RV, Arizona Campers and Trailers, El Monte RV and Travelon RV.
Shop online. Even the local Phoenix RV dealers offer their merchandise online, sometimes at a different price than what they quote to a walk-in. Check for deals on the Phoenix Craigslist, as well as at RV Trader, rvSearch.com, RV Mart and ebay.com.
Steer clear of "orphan RVs," whether you're shopping new or used. Orphan RVs are those made by manufacturers who have gone out of business. Although these can be a bargain, lack of warranty and difficulty in obtaining repair parts can later negate any savings made with the purchase.
Consider the timing of your purchase. In late February, the Annual Sportsmen, Vacation and RV Show in Phoenix offers special savings to attendees. In spring, the snowbirds leave Arizona and many RV dealers close for the summer or ship their stock to one store, so savings on both used and new RVs are common at this time. In fall, snowbirds flock back to Arizona and upgrade their unit, so you can find good deals on used RVs.
Examine a used RV for problems. Beware of soft spots in the floor and silicone or sealant around windows and corner molding. Check the outlets, lights, converter, inverter, fans, water lines and the fresh, grey and black water tanks. Check that all appliances work. If the unit has slide-outs, make sure they are all operating easily and correctly. Hire a mechanic to check the engine and mechanical components of the Class B RV; it can save you money on repairs later.
Check the warranty, especially if purchasing a new RV. If you have to return the RV to the factory for service, you will have to add in the time and expense to possibly travel hundreds or even thousands of miles. Make sure your brand has national coverage of authorized repair dealers. If buying used, check to see if the warranty is transferable to a new owner. If buying from a dealer, ask if they offer warranty coverage on used RVs.
Compare the price quoted to you with the price in the NADA Recreational Vehicle Price Guide. Dealers can sometimes mark an RV up by 40 percent, which you can negotiate down. As a general rule of thumb, aim to negotiate $100,000 RVs down 18 to 25 percent and lower-priced units down to 10 to 15 percent.
