By Lazydays

Looking to upgrade your RV to a newer model? Make sure to factor in these considerations to get the most value out of your trade.

RV styles and technologies are apt to change as manufacturers make new advances to their models. Innovations over the past decade have dramatically improved things like engine efficiency, energy usage, in-dashboard navigation, and storage capacity.

When you see these advances, you may feel enticed to trade-in your RV for an upgraded model, or maybe switch to a different class. Luckily, Lazydays RVoffers great RV trade-in opportunities. You can save yourself some cash when you apply a generous trade value credit to your new, upgraded purchase. Lazydays RV takes trade-ins at each of our locations, in Florida, Arizona, and Colorado.

We’ve outlined a few things to keep in mind as you prepare your RV for trade-in to ensure you receive the maximum value credit.

1. Exterior condition

Start with a thorough wash of the exterior. After it’s clean of dirt and grime, touch up any scratches or chipping in the paint.

Check the roof for signs of damage, rust, or mold, especially around vents and in and around any awnings or cloth-like materials. The same goes for windows, which can collect moisture, mold, and rust from precipitation. Be sure to clean the windows inside and out.

Check the tires, fill them to their recommended pressure and, if necessary, rotate them.

Other items that are often overlooked? Windshield wipers, side mirrors, and door steps are all apt to show signs of wear and tear, mold, or rust.

2. Interior condition

Some simple repairs may be in order for the interior of your RV. You’ll want to check to see if any of the cabinet or door hinges are loose, and make sure all of the power outlets are functioning, as well as any appliances. If you’ve experienced issues with any of your appliances, consider bringing in an electrician to check the wiring before selling. In some cases, reupholstering can also help you to yield a higher trade-in value.

3. Engine, batteries, maintenance

Take the RV in for maintenance and an oil change, and be sure to get an idea of the condition of your engine and battery. Tell the technicians working on your RV to keep an eye out for ways to increase the value of the RV, like replacing worn engine parts.

4. General style and cleanliness

Make sure your RV’s interior makes a first great impression: vacuum, wipe down surfaces, dust, clean out cabinets, and shampoo upholstery or carpets if necessary. Consider what future buyers’ impression of the cabin will be. Does it smell strange or have dated or out-of-place styling? Consider familiarizing yourself with the model as it was advertised and making changes accordingly.

5. Is the paperwork in order?

Finally, make sure all the paperwork is in order, including the deed, transferable warranty, mileage and year, documented changes that you’ve made to the RV over the years, and any other documents you’ve accrued during ownership of the RV. Make sure to keep a copy of these documents for your own records, and bring another copy when you trade the vehicle in.

Feel free to call any of our Lazydays RV locations to talk with an RV specialist about our trade-in process, or any other concerns you may have. Alternatively, you can send us the specs of your current model, and we’ll provide you with a trade-in value quote.

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