Community Forums

wombat94 · 05-04-2021, 04:22 AM

Hi all,

We are very excited. Last night we agreed on a price and put down a deposit on our first motorhome.

A little background: we are a couple in our early fifties. Two teenage kids (one starting college in the fall and one who is finishing sophomore year of high school next month).

I (Ted) have never owned a motorhome but my wife (Kathy) grew up in a motor homing family.

We've talked abut motorhomes as an idea for us for many years and during the pandemic have spent about the last 4 to 6 months doing a ton of research.

On Sunday we went to see a private seller's coach and felt that it was right for us and we decided now was the time.

It is a 2003 Fleetwood Discovery 39P. The current owners have done a great job renovating the interior and updating the systems that matter the most to us. (Electrical, Safety cameras, televisions and refrigerator). They also have redecorated in a way that appeals to us and replaced all the carpet (all that's possible) with nice new vinyl tile.

So we put down a deposit and we're looking for any advice on the best way to complete a purchase with a private party. We have reached out to a professional RV inspector in our area and will be getting the rig fully inspected before closing on the deal.

After that, the next priority is to get some driving lessons for both of us. I've driven fairly large U-Haul trucks before, but a 39 foot motorhome is something new and I am looking for some professional training.

The plan is to get to know the rig and the way of life for the next couple of years with close-to-home weekends and/or short trips on the east coast (we are in southeast Pennsylvania) and then when both kids are off to college have the ability/confidence to go on extended road trips out to the western U.S.

We both are able to do our jobs remotely so longer trips will be a possibility when kids school/activity schedules aren't in the way.

Thanks for reading. We're excited to be here and for the journey forward.

Any pointers to resources about purchasing from a private party, getting a professional inspection or RV driving lessons would be greatly appreciated.

Ted

**Petro** · 05-04-2021, 08:51 AM

We are glad you joined us. Congratulations on your decision to enter this exciting lifestyle. There is a wealth of RV info available to you here just by asking. Browse the forums that interest you and don't be afraid to ask questions as our members like to help when they can.

Post often and share your new RV adventures with us. Enjoy the forums.

Don

MSHappyCampers · 05-04-2021, 09:09 AM

Hi Ted & Kathy! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

Congrats on the new rig! Keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

momdoc · 05-04-2021, 05:50 PM

Welcome to the forum and congrats on the new coach. VERY smart move having it inspected first.

You are joining a good group of folks here with good information to share. Read the various threads here and ask questions as they come up or add information if you can.

Good luck and enjoy the adventure!

**TonyDi** · 05-04-2021, 07:59 PM

Glad to have you here with us.

Browse the forums and ask questions, especially the Fleetwood Owners Forum.

You’ll get plenty of help from our members. Many times RV dealer will give driving lessons for a fee.

Let us know if we can help you.