dealer versus private

[salemtrading]

I am looking for my first pop up, and seem to find that the dealer prices are 25-50% cheaper than the private sellers.  This seems odd to me or is this normal.  What are the benefits of both and how do I "test drive" a trailer?

[PattieAM]

I am assuming that the dealerships models (gently used) are trade-ins, and accordingly priced to sell.  I too have recently seen that some of the dealerships models are lower in cost than those of private sellers.  I think that's a good thing.  It might help the economy somewhat as to financing if those trade-ins are sold fast.  

As to what to look for when buying a used trailer....you have to inspect it from the tires up - be sure the wheel bearings have been re-packed/lubed recently, brakes adjusted, all the amenities (appliances) work, roof in good condition and sealing well.  

You might want to read "Natasha's Camping Site" for good information on buying a gently used popup and what to look for.

If buying from a dealership, they may provide some type of warranty - but you will need to check.  The private sales don't have that option, and little if any of the factory warrantied items allow for transfer of warranty.

[salemtrading]

The dealer said they would go over everything in the pop up to check that it worked and teach us how to use it.  It was a 2005 Starcraft 2107 for 5000 with air, which seems a good deal but I am probably over cautious. Do the smaller pop ups sell better or the larger ones?  We actually may need to look smaller yet or get a bigger tow vehicle but with this economy its scary to buy anything.

[Used 2B PopUPTimes]

The dealers have more than one trailer to sell and may be nervous about carrying large inventories, so they're making deals.

[austinado16]

Here's one on CL for $4,500 that has everything you seem to be after and looks brand new.  So depending on what you settled on for price, you're putting $500 or more into your pocket as compared to buying that one from the dealer

http://akroncanton.craigslist.org/rvs/1115695454.html

Also, note how "small" the camper is, and what he's towing with (because I know you're considering what you're going to do about a TV).

Here's another example, and with an asking price of $2,500 you now have $2,500 to put toward a TV
http://akroncanton.craigslist.org/rvs/1101730745.html