Community Forums

jemma112 · 04-25-2010, 07:15 AM

Hello All, my name is Susan and I hope to join the RV community soon. I know nothing about it, but do know I want to see this great country of ours. I will be retiring soon, (within 2 years) and could use any and all tips you can give.

I am wondering how all of you started.

Do you recommend a small Class A or a small Class C.

How difficult is it to drive either?

Thanks Susan

Nick-B · 04-25-2010, 08:29 AM

Welcome to the forums Susan!
I too am looking forward to retirement soon but I wish I could say when (stupid economy!).
My wife and I had a 24' Class C years ago and enjoyed it greatly. We just bought a 36' Class A and haven't made an outing in it yet. There are advantages to both types.
This much I can say - The smaller C is easier to just jump into and drive and find places to park. The bigger A will take a bit more to get used to the size but like anything else new, once you are accustomed to it it shouldn't be a problem.
My advice is to look at LOTS of models and floor plans and start to narrow things down. If you take your time, you'll find the right one.

TXiceman · 04-25-2010, 09:19 AM

You need to visit a few RV dealers and just look at what they have. It would also help if you rented one similar to what you think will work for you.

And since this is your first RV, I'd suggest a gently used one. Plenty of nice used ones out ther, but you need to remember "Buyer Beware". Have an independent RV tech check the proposed rig over and also have a shop check the engine and drive line. This may cost you a couple of hundred dollars, but could save you much more by avoiding one with problems.

When you get ready to make the deal, make sure that the person selling the RV (dealer or individual) writes everything they promised into the contract...not in the contract, things get "forgotten". You should not pay for a separate make ready or demo fee as this is part of them doing business.

When you get ready for delivery, make sure the RV is 100% before you sign the papers or give them any more money. Let them know,you will not accept delivery or pay for it until it is 100% complete and finished.

Now go have fun shopping.

Ken

pkendzor · 04-26-2010, 08:06 PM

Hi Susan,

Welcome to the forum...... I strongly suggest that you rent a few before you buy. We rented quite a few before we decided on a class C. A year later we moved up to a class A. Both are easy to drive. My wife actually prefers driving the class A.

The main thing is the floorplan. By renting a few it makes it easier to decide what you want vs. what you need for your lifestyle.

There are a lot of late model low mile used units on the market and especially for a first time buyer I think it is the best way to go.

Enjoy shopping
Paul