RV Depreciation & Resale Value Guide

RVs are expensive, and unlike houses, they don't appreciate in value. Understanding depreciation is crucial whether you're buying new or used, or planning your eventual resale.

This guide breaks down real depreciation rates by RV type, shows you which models hold value best, and reveals strategies to minimize your financial loss.

The Harsh Reality of RV Depreciation

RVs depreciate faster than cars. A new $150,000 Class A motorhome can lose $30,000-50,000 in value the moment you drive it off the lot.

Average RV Depreciation by Year:

• Year 1: 20-25% loss
• Year 3: 35-40% total loss
• Year 5: 45-55% total loss
• Year 10: 60-75% total loss

Depreciation Rates by RV Type

Class A Motorhomes (Highest Depreciation)

Year 1: Lose 22-28% ($30,000-60,000 on a $200k RV)
Year 5: Worth only 50-55% of original price
Why: High initial costs, complex systems, expensive repairs

Class C Motorhomes (Moderate Depreciation)

Year 1: Lose 18-23% ($18,000-23,000 on a $100k RV)
Year 5: Worth 52-58% of original price
Why: More affordable than Class A, still motorized complexity

Travel Trailers (Lower Depreciation)

Year 1: Lose 15-20% ($6,000-10,000 on a $50k trailer)
Year 5: Worth 58-65% of original price
Why: No engine to maintain, simpler systems, lower entry cost

Fifth Wheels (Best Value Retention)

Year 1: Lose 12-18% ($8,000-12,000 on a $65k unit)
Year 5: Worth 60-68% of original price
Why: Popular with full-timers, quality construction, strong demand

Class B Camper Vans (Variable)

Year 1: Lose 15-22% depending on brand
Year 5: Worth 55-65% of original price
Why: High demand lately but smaller market

Which RV Brands Hold Value Best?

Top Brands for Resale Value (2025):

Motorhomes

Tiffin Motorhomes - Excellent build quality
Newmar - Premium construction
Airstream (Interstate) - Iconic brand
Winnebago - Reliable and popular

Towables

Airstream - Best-in-class resale
Oliver Travel Trailers - Fiberglass construction
Grand Design - Quality and warranty
Arctic Fox - Four-season capability

Factors That Affect RV Resale Value

1. Mileage (Motorhomes Only)

Low miles (under 30k): Premium pricing
Average miles (30k-60k): Market rate
High miles (over 100k): Significant discount

2. Condition & Maintenance

Well-maintained with records: 10-15% value boost
Visible wear and tear: 15-25% value reduction
Water damage or structural issues: 30-50% value reduction

3. Location & Season

Sell in warm states (FL, AZ, TX) for better prices year-round
Spring/early summer = peak selling season (10-15% higher prices)
Winter = worst time to sell (especially in cold climates)

4. Floor Plan Popularity

High demand: Bunkhouse models, rear living fifth wheels
Low demand: Rear twin beds, front kitchen layouts

How to Maximize Your RV's Resale Value

Before You Buy

Buy used (1-3 years old): Let someone else take the initial depreciation hit
Choose popular brands: Airstream, Grand Design, Tiffin
Stick to neutral colors: White, gray, tan sell better than bright colors
Avoid custom builds: Standard floor plans have broader appeal

While You Own It

Keep all maintenance records: Organized records = higher buyer confidence
Fix issues immediately: Small problems become big depreciation factors
Store it properly: Covered storage prevents UV damage and roof deterioration
Avoid modifications: Buyers want stock, not your custom setup

When Selling

Deep clean everything: Spend $500 on professional detailing = $2,000+ in perceived value
Make minor repairs: Fix loose trim, burned-out lights, torn screens
Take quality photos: Bright, clean, multiple angles
List at the right time: Spring for best prices
Price competitively: Overpricing leads to long listings and lower final sales

Should You Buy New or Used?

The "Sweet Spot" for Buying:

2-3 years old with low use

• Original owner absorbed 30-40% depreciation
• Still under warranty (many manufacturers offer 3 years)
• Modern features and construction
• Your depreciation: only 15-20% over next 5 years vs. 50%+ on new

Depreciation Example: Real Numbers

Scenario: $100,000 Class C Motorhome

Year	Estimated Value	Total Loss
Purchase (New)	$100,000	$0
Year 1	$78,000	-$22,000
Year 3	$62,000	-$38,000
Year 5	$50,000	-$50,000
Year 10	$30,000	-$70,000

Conclusion

RV depreciation is brutal, but understanding it helps you make smarter buying and selling decisions. The key takeaways:

Buy used (2-3 years old) to avoid the steepest depreciation
Choose brands known for quality and resale value
Maintain meticulously and keep records
Sell at the right time (spring in warm climates)

Accept that an RV is a depreciating asset, not an investment. The memories and freedom are the real return.