Nothing lasts forever. Even though your campervan may have been your favourite possession once upon a time, there comes a time when selling becomes the most logical course of action.
With that said, knowing when to sell can be tricky. With people’s lives busier than ever, it’s normal that actually getting around to selling your campervan can continually become a job for tomorrow.
But there can be good reasons for selling your campervan promptly, including avoiding paying more than necessary in storage and insurance fees. We’ve put together a list of 7 signs that now could be the ideal time to sell your campervan. Let’s take a look.
It’s Barely Being Used
If you’re no longer using your campervan on a regular basis, then it’s worthwhile considering whether it’s finally time to sell.
For one thing, having a campervan just sitting there is a constant reminder that you’re not taking it out as often as you thought you would. It can bring other issues, too. Campervans that are used only irregularly are more likely to experience issues that can erode their value, and that’s on top of the depreciation that happens regardless of how the vehicle is being used.
It’s Costing More and More To Maintain
Most campervans have issues from time to time. The key detail is whether what you’re getting from ownership is enough to justify the expenses that those issues can bring. At some point, you might find that you’re spending a small fortune on fixing problems without getting much in return.
Costs can add up, and the problem only tends to get worse as the campervan continues to age. If you’re beginning to grow frustrated at how much money you’re having to sink into the vehicle, then it’s worthwhile seeing how much you get to it — especially before you commit to another round of expensive repair work.
You’re Paying Expensive Storage Fees For No Reason
Some campervan owners focus on the cost of the trips themselves, but these vehicles can also bring them a bunch of other expenses that can have a big impact on your financial situation. For example, the cost of storage, which can easily run in excess of £1000 per year in some areas. That’s on top of MOT, insurance, tax, and other routine expenses.
Most people are happy to pay those costs if they’re getting a lot of use from their campervan, but if they’re not, then the cost becomes a lot harder to justify. At that point, it can make more financial sense to sell your campervan. Not only will you receive the money from the sale, but you’ll also save money on all the other expenses, and that can have a big impact on your overall financial landscape.
It No Longer Suits Your Needs
You might love your campervan and still wish to use it, but if it no longer suits your needs, then it might be time to sell and look for a replacement. A campervan that suited you and your partner when it was just the two will be much less suitable when it’s you two, your two kids, and the dog.
Ultimately, it’s worthwhile asking whether your campervan still meets your needs. Many people who would still happily go out in their campervan every other weekend often don’t do so simply because their van isn’t quite right for the task. Selling your campervan and buying one that better suits your current needs can help to restart your adventures.
You Have a Big Expense Coming Up
A campervan can tie up significant capital. If you have a big expense on the horizon, such as a wedding, new baby, home renovation project, or extended travel adventure, then untying that capital can be an effective way to boost your financial landscape at a time when it’s needed most. With campervans in demand, it’s usually possible to sell your campervan quickly, sometimes in as little as 24 – 48 hours. Even if you’re unsure about selling right now, it can be reassuring to know that you could sell quickly at any time, if needed. With that said, it’s usually best to sell earlier rather than later if you’re committed to selling, since depreciation will continue while you’re waiting. Selling early allows you to get as much cash as possible from the sale.
You’re Eyeing Up A Newer Model
Been throwing admiring glances in the direction of newer campervan models? Then that’s a pretty big sign that you’re ready to move on. It’s not always easy to register that your journey with your current campervan is coming to an end, but eyeing up a newer model is a pretty straightforward sign.
Most people part-exchange their campervan when upgrading, but it can be better to look at selling directly and then use the funds to purchase the replacement.
It Needs Too Much Work
Many people hold onto their campervan simply because it’s in poor condition and they believe that no one will buy it. That leaves a situation where they’re left with a vehicle they don’t want, and they have to continually invest in its maintenance just to keep it on the road.
But selling it is nearly always an option. Direct buyers will consider all vehicle conditions, so even if your campervan has clearly seen better days, you can still make a quick sale. This option usually makes more sense than trying to fix the campervan up so that it’s ready for private sale, since private buyers will still haggle and it’s unlikely that you’ll get the full return on your investment anyway.
Conclusion
You don’t need to sell your campervan just because you’ve recognised your campervan in one or two of the points we’ve included above, but if you’ve nodded your head at a few of them? Then that’s a sign that the time to sell your campervan is approaching. In any case, whether it’s one of the points or all seven, it can be worthwhile getting a valuation so you at least know what your campervan is worth.