But while buying from a private seller can mean serious savings, it can also come with unexpected risks. Here’s what savvy buyers are learning before they make the deal.

The Allure of Owner-Listed RVs

Let’s face it—dealership markups can be brutal. When you buy directly from a seller, you often skip those hidden fees, overhead charges, and aggressive upsells. Sellers may be more flexible, more transparent, and motivated to sell quickly. Plus, many used RVs are barely broken in, with thousands of dollars' worth of upgrades thrown in.

But here’s the catch: no warranty, no trade-in protections, and no lemon law to save you if things go wrong.

Red Flags That Cost Buyers Thousands

It happens all the time—someone finds a “great deal” online, only to discover that the RV leaks, the wiring is outdated, or worse, the title isn’t clean.

When buying from a private owner:

Always demand maintenance records.

Get a full inspection by a certified RV technician.

Double-check the VIN for liens, theft records, or salvage history.

A professional inspection may cost a few hundred dollars—but it could save you thousands.

Negotiation is Personal—Use That to Your Advantage

Here’s something few people talk about: sellers who list their RVs privately are often emotionally attached. That means negotiations can be tricky—but also deeply human.

Ask about their adventures, why they’re selling, and what upgrades they’ve made. You might gain insights into how the RV was treated—and possibly knock a few bucks off the asking price while building trust.

The Paperwork Trap: Don't Get Burned

Private RV sales skip the dealership—but that means you’re on your own for paperwork. That includes:

Title transfer and registration

Smog/emissions certification (in some states)

Sales tax reporting

And don’t forget: some states require notarized signatures or bill-of-sale forms. Missing even one step could delay your ability to register—or even void the sale.

Financing a Private RV Sale? It’s Possible

Many buyers assume they need to pay cash—but that’s not the case. Some lenders offer RV loans even for peer-to-peer transactions, although the process might involve more verification and paperwork.

Make sure the seller is comfortable with the timeline, and use an escrow service if you’re transferring a large amount.

Is It Worth It? For Many, the Answer Is “Absolutely”

When done right, buying a used RV from a private owner can lead to the adventure of a lifetime—without the dealership markup. But doing it right takes preparation, awareness, and a bit of skepticism.

Done wrong? It could leave you stranded with a 5-ton problem parked in your driveway.