Wannabe Rpod Owner

Hello. New to the forum. Though not much is available, I’ve been watching Craigslist. Originally thought we’d be looking at a clamshell, like a small T@b, but after thinking about inclement weather, decided to focus on something more than a bed on wheels. Due to having a Toyota Tacoma as my tow vehicle, I’m guessing I need to stick with the smaller trailer, e.g. the 171 - which is big enough for us as a retired couple with 2 smallish dogs - mini Aussies. Is there an appropriate thread someone can guide me to that covers buying/inspecting tips? As we’re going to buy used, are there years to avoid, and years that are more desirable? In comparing NADA values to asking prices, they are worlds apart; is that always the case, or this part of the COVID phenomenon where demand for RVs has gone through the roof? Thanks in advance for helpful insights and guidance. Jim...Wenatchee, WA

Welcome. You are right to be cautions about how much trailer you buy. Many people are mislead by the way the trailer and tow vehicle ratings are presented. 

Thanks for the helpful responses. I’ve completed many transactions via CL, traveling hundreds of miles to buy cars, trucks and motorcycles. In most cases, I’ve had good experiences. And a few horrible ones, to be sure. Seems like it has become a LOT worse in recent years, doggone it. Still the advice is appreciated and warranted.

Welcome to the forum. We also live in the NW and use CL to buy and sell a few vehicles and trailers. For our first Rpod we decided the 179. Comparing prices on CL, RVTrader, NADA, and local on line newspaper adds we came up with ball park prices for year model, features, etc. in our region. Then called and talked to sellers. Ended up driving 500 mi checking two units and buying one. We used it for over a year and moved up one size when the new ones came out.  We've towed both over the Blues, Cascades, Coast ranges, and those in ID and some in MT.  Only real issue we had was a strong head wind in ID. Had to get off the freeway and put it up overnight for safety's sake. Let the forum know how your Taco is set up and we can be more helpful there. BTW I'll be in your area in a couple weeks. PM me if you'd like.

Based on your experiences with Rpods, have the prices on used models taken a spike due to so many people turning to camping during COVID-19, or are the prices pretty stable? When plugging in a 2014 171 with a variety of upgrades, NADA provides an average retail of $9200. But in evaluating CL (West Coast) and RV Trader, I’m seeing prices $14-16k for similar. I realize there is a seasonal factor as well. Also, on new units, I sense from some comments that buyers occasionally get deep discounts from suggested retail. Can anyone speak to that. Again, your wisdom is much appreciated.