2007 or 2008 Model Avalon?

[NoUnder18Allwd]

Hi all,

After 6 months of exhausting research, we've finally decided to go with our first choice, the Avalon.  We've looked at everything from PUPs to 5th wheels.

Hubby was at Peco yesterday, and they have a used 2007 (which probably will go fast).  Since the 2007 is listed at $14,900 (approx) and I've seen 2008 for $17,000 (in FL), why would I buy used?  These are dealer prices, so there's obviously room for negotiation.  Right?  We will drive within a 14 hour radius to make the best deal.  I haven't seen an Avalon priced lower than $14k, but I haven't started the haggle process yet either.

Let's say for grins a 2008 is $20,000 (average MSRP from what I'm finding on the internet) minus 30% markup = $14,000.  Is that reasonable or do you think $17k is bottom of the barrel and no room left?

Has anyone found a "wholesaler" for Avalon?  Willing to drive to deal, no problem.   No more messing around; need it for New Years trip.

Thanks for your input (I searched all avalon posts here and other sites)

[GeneF]

Hi all,


 why would I buy used? /QUOTE]

1.  Save the first year's depreciation hit on the new one.
2.  If you pay a sales tax, it would be less.
3.  May be cheaper to register.
4.  Previous owner may already have the bugs out.
5.  Less to insure

Why I wouldn't buy used?

1.  Why did the original owner sell it?
2.  Hidden damage?
3.  What warrantee will I get?
4.  I like the new camper smell.
5.  No one else has slept in my bed or used my bathroom.

I have done both, new and used.

[SherryandFamily]

A friend of ours just bought a new 2007 Avalon.

Because they had just made that purchase I noticed many posts on the three camping boards I frequent about the automatic lift on many models including the 2007 Avalon.   The recall applied to the 2007 Avalon, but not the 2008 Avalon.

If you are considering a 2007 with the automatic lift you might want to ask about the recall.

Sherry

[TroutBum]

I don't know if you can find a new '07 anywhere within your above-mentioned radius, but it might be worth a try.  DW and I bought our 05 Starcraft after labor day (and after the '06 models came out).  We told the dealer to calculate the price with tax etc. for $10k out-the door and that we were prepared to write them a check then and there.  Otherwise we would talk to them in the Spring.  They weighed our offer against having it parked on the lot through an Idaho winter and we ended up getting a $12,500 MSRP camper for $10,250 OTD.

[6fordaroad]

We didn't even consider a used camper.  I refuse to sleep in a bed that someone else has used, I even don't sleep comfortably in hotel rooms.  We bought a brand new 2008 Avalon, and love it  Towed REALLY well out to my mom's in Texas, a 14 hour drive, 900 miles one way, handled the freak storm we brought with us of ice and snow, blah blah blah.  But we do use an SUV so , I can't help ya with the advice about towing with a car.  We did pay a heavy price,  on the west coast for our Avalon, OTD was $23912. and I do mean that was everything, including the stuff we had them add to it.  Which was an awning and a/c, tags were a big pricey, $320. for 1 yr, and insurance wasn't bad, $129 for 6 months.  List on it was 19400, according to the title  Not sure how much this is going to help or hinder.  OH, and welcome to the group!

[popupbunnie]

We paid 18,000 for ours, traded in our 05 Niagara, for 10,000-
walked in with 8000 walked out with the new Avalon.
Have not yet slept in it, but I am with you, totally, can't sleep in a bed someone else has slept in.
Diane