Driving me crazy values

[CARDINAL905]

Hello again, new Guy and Gal here. I have narrowed my search to three (until perhaps tomorrow-HA) Diesel pushers. My question is on value, the first two are a 2004 National Tropi-cal---three slides 350hp. A 2001 Monaco Diplomat---two slides 330hp, and a 2001 Winnebago Journey---two slides 330hp. The latter two show a low NADA of 30.600 and 45.290 respectively. How can there be this much difference in price, 14.690 ? These two seem to be almost exact with the Monaco being a 40 footer, four feet longer than the Winney. ? Your input is greatly needed. Mike N Cindy.

[deandec]

Evidently the NADA calculation started at a higher MSRP point for the Journey.

Most agree that the NADA numbers are merely the result of an annual depreciation schedule applied to the MSRP and maybe create market value because NADA is the sole published reference point.

Unlike automobiles, there are not enough sales of individual models of motorhomes by dealers to get an actual current market value from combined reported transactions.

Actually, I suspect many folks have purchased a brand new motor home from the dealer for less than the NADA first year value by paying 75% of MSRP.

So, it appears the values NADA presents are just straight line depreciation from MSRP and perhaps not truly a market value representation?

Hence you have a valid question with no ready answer from me.

[CARDINAL905]

I suspected that too, but the Monaco has a 25k higher list, with a 7k less low value.

[CARDINAL905]

Sorry, wrong figures in my previous post. The list is approx 3k less on the Monaco, but the low NADA is 15k less. Makes me worried I am making the wrong decision in considering the Monaco. Mike.

[sc3283]

Cardinal search for past sales of all the models your interested in..and throw that NADA book out the window. Base your pricing on those and what you and the wife can afford and or like. If your basing your purchase on possible future value....buy gold or silver...not an RV

[MarkofSJC]

Personally, forget NADA. They're trying to seem as though they are the "Kelly Blue Book" of values when they are way out in left field.

My suggestion, go to a search vehicle (such as oodle.com, or the beta version of RVTrader.com) and see what's actually offered for sale for those exact coaches ~ and at what price. Sure, there will be some variance in how equipted they are, but it's a much more realistic pricing guideline than NADA.

Mark

[CARDINAL905]

Ok, now I am more confused.

[JoePut]

Buy what you like and can afford The value of a motorhome is in the eye of the beholder

[WeatherTodd]

Originally Posted by JoePut

Buy what you like and can afford The value of a motorhome is in the eye of the beholder

wow... that post was of no help. Nice job

[Davdeb1]

If you can buy the Monaco for 15k less than the Winnebago, run, don't walk, do it! You will never be sorry, you will see the Monaco will serve you just as well if not better, and it's almost 12 years old, so who cares about the resale?

Unless you really love the Winny floor plan, the 15k would be a waste.

[szy]

Originally Posted by WeatherTodd

wow... that post was of no help. Nice job

BUT IT WAS THE TRUTH

[CARDINAL905]

I found a truck center to do a pre-buy on the Monaco. Also looking at a 2004 Tropi-cal this weekend but if you have read my thread under "Newbies checking in" about the towing issue we have found, you can understand my perceived problem with the National. Thanks for all the input !! Mike N Cindy.

[Davdeb1]

I would go to the Monaco forum on this site. If I am not mistaken, that was a pretty trouble free year for Monaco.

[JimM68]

Any Dip is a heck of a nice coach. If the floorplan suits u, i'd snap it up at 30k.

I looked at some tropical's, they were nice, but not as nice as a Dip, and a complete orphan. At least monaco still answers the phone when we call.