Community Forums

GScott423 · 02-23-2019, 09:14 AM

So we are a month away from taking ownership of a 2017 Chaparral 5th wheel that we are buying from a couple who are getting off the RV merry-go-round. I have only purchased from dealers and am unfamiliar with the process. Do I need them to sign a bill of sale? What about the title whether or not they still owe on it. Any other advice from members who have been there and have the t-shirts to prove it?

OlYeller · 02-23-2019, 09:47 AM

I would want a bill of sale. It should state the VIN#, price, and any conditions of the sale (warranty, as is etc.).

If they have a lien, I would want to go with them to the lender and watch them pay off the lien. I would also ask for a statement in writing from the lender that the loan is paid in full and they release their interest. Most lenders are able to arrange this. If not, I'd look for a different RV.

Dav L · 02-23-2019, 09:50 AM

Yes, clean title is a must. Have them photocopy / email it to you to ensure they are in possession. yes, they sign it over to you on sale.

Ensure you get any paperwork / history if available.

Did you inspect the trailer? Or have someone knowledgeable do this for you prior to sale?

egwilly · 02-23-2019, 02:33 PM

Two year old trailer shouldn't have many issues. I would hire a inspector to go over the unit stem to stern. No worries if they find nothing. If owner balks, you walk.

Bill of sale, any warranty or "as-is" statement included. Make sure your tow vehicle is appropriate to the weight limits. Test tow would be good too.

Good luck!

Winemaker2 · 02-23-2019, 07:03 PM

Last MH purchas was private and PO had a loan. I gave them a deposit to hold it until I could Inspect it and have them demo all components. Gave them a significant payment and drove the unit home w their plates. They sent me the clean title and I made final payment & returned plates.
If close and you both can go to bank that's the best way.
Title signed over and bill of sale should be ok for you to license it.
Some states require more paperwork if selling price is below book and they want to collect more on sales tax. NY is one of those and had to jump through hoops.

timjet · 02-25-2019, 06:00 AM

A couple of items when purchasing from a private party.
If there is a loan make sure the bank has released the loan and you can get a clear title.
When paying for the unit, best to use a wire transfer from your bank to the seller's bank after all other paper work is in order especially if you are financing the unit.

I would get a temporary tag if possible. If not after you take ownership, get a tag and registration from your state. I would not use the sellers tag to drive it home. Too much of a liability for both you and the seller.

This is all assuming you have checked the unit out and you are aware of it's condition.

doc · 02-25-2019, 11:16 AM

The things you mention are Very important. Especially the "is there money owed on it". It would be a terrible thing to have some bank re-po person drive up and take that RV back with them. With the bill of sale, should be a title if the seller owns it outright.

egwilly · 02-26-2019, 09:15 AM

Pretty simple actually: if they can produce a certificate of ownership or "pink slip" from the state dmv in their name, you're good to go. Watch out if it's registered in Montana!

Make sure they sign it.