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Try motorhome hire before you buy

If you really are new to motorhoming, a great way to check things out initially is to hire. It’s perfect for finding out how a motorhome performs – both on the road and on site.

Also, many dealers have links with specialist motorhome hire companies whereby if you subsequently purchase from them you will get a refund, either full or partial, on the cost of the hire.

Shield top tip: Look around and you might be able to trace the exact make and model of motorhome for hire as you are looking to purchase. In case like this, don’t see travel as an object – you can always leave your car at the hirer’s premises and travel on from there.

Be a good motorhome customer

OK, so you are about to enter a business deal, but that doesn’t mean common courtesy needs to go out of the window. All dealers have a profit margin to work to, that’s why they are in business. But also, the best dealers recognise the purchase and subsequent care of a motorhome is a long-term affair, so they should work hard to keep your custom.

These are complex machines designed to serve a multitude of purposes. And, things can go wrong. That’s when you’ll be glad to have the back-up of a customer-friendly dealership.

Shield top tip: As the saying goes: if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Be prepared to be a bit suspicious. Buy what you can afford might sound sensible enough, but it’s surprising how often folk over-reach themselves, either literally or financially.

Find yourself a good, local dealer who knows his stuff.
 

Spend wisely
The price of your purchase depends on many things, including part-exchanges and even the time of year you buy. Prices vary massively, so budget to spend a little bit more – on accessories and the like – after you’ve made your initial purchase. If you really are new to motorhomes and just want to give the activity a try, seriously consider a lower-price previously owned motorhome as a starting point before taking the plunge and buying brand new.

Shield top tip: Treat any window price as a start point. Yes, you should shop around to get a feel for pricing, but remember you’ll rarely be comparing exact like for like in terms of overall motorhome specification.

Enjoy yourselves
Finally, buying a brand new motorhome should give you almost as much pleasure as actually getting out there and using it. Make it an opportunity to do a bit of visiting, and make sure you are happy dealing with any salesman (or woman) and that they can prove they know their stuff when it comes to the vehicles they are selling.

Shield top tip: Many sales folk are keen motorcaravanners themselves. It sometimes helps but the key thing is the level of service they are going to give you.

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