Buying a Caravan from a Private Seller

Thinking about buying a caravan from a private seller? It’s a fantastic way to find a great deal and get on the road quicker than you might think! At Caravan Loans Finance, we’re here to walk you through every step, from first inspection to final sale. Whether you’re buying caravans or camper trailers from private sellers in person or through caravan sale web sites, we’ll give you all the knowledge you need to navigate the sales process and buy with confidence.

What to Look Out For When Buying a Used Caravan

When you’re in the market for a second-hand caravan, a thorough inspection is key to making sure you’re making a wise investment. Here’s how you can tackle this without feeling overwhelmed:

Body and Build

Begin your inspection by looking over the caravan’s exterior. You’ll want to search for any signs of rust or damage, such as dents or broken fixtures, which can indicate past accidents or poor maintenance. It’s also crucial to inspect the interior for any signs of dampness or leaks. A musty smell, stained ceilings, or swollen walls are red flags that could spell big trouble down the line. Ensure that the windows and doors seal properly to keep the interior dry and protected from the elements – if possible, spray the caravan down with a hose and see if any leaks appear.

Electrical Systems and Appliances

After checking the structure, turn your attention to the caravan’s electrical systems and appliances. Start by testing every switch and making sure that all the lights function correctly. Check the fridge, microwave, and any other included appliances to ensure they are in working order. This not only includes checking that they power up, but also that they effectively perform their intended functions—like actually cooling or heating.

It is also worth asking the owner to provide proof that all electrical work, including installation, repairs and upgrades, has been carried out by certified electricians. If not, you are not only voiding the warranty and likely your insurance, but also risking the safety of the caravan and yourself.

Plumbing and Gas

The water and gas systems of a caravan are vital for a comfortable journey, especially if you plan to spend any time off-grid. Run the taps to check for consistent water pressure and listen for any unusual noises that might indicate plumbing issues. It’s important to check for any leaks under sinks, around the toilet, and in the shower, as these are frequent problem areas that can develop into mould or rot if left unidentified and unattended.

For the gas system, ensure that the stove lights up properly and that there are no signs of gas leaks, which can be detected by a sulfur-like smell or by using a gas leak detector. As with the electrical systems, you should ensure that all plumbing and gas fitting work has been performed by a certified and licensed professional and ask the owner to provide records to this effect.

Undercarriage Inspection

Finally, take a look underneath the caravan. The tyres should have even wear and sufficient tread depth to safely carry you through your travels, and should not show any signs of perishing. Inspect the chassis for any signs of serious damage, such as cracks or excessive rust, which can compromise the caravan’s structural integrity. Additionally, make sure that components such as water tanks are secured and that you don’t have any straps or underbody protection hanging down.

The suspension, brakes, and all components and connections including the brake lines, brake pads, and drums/discs should be thoroughly inspected for signs of rust and wear and tested to ensure they’re operational and safe.

The Paperwork Puzzle

Getting the paperwork right is crucial when buying from a private seller. Ensure the seller provides proof of registration and ownership to confirm that the caravan legally belongs to them and isn’t a stolen or rebirthed caravan. It’s also important to ask for the service records which show a log of all the maintenance work the caravan has undergone.

Just as with a car, buying a used caravan that hasn’t been properly serviced and maintained is asking for trouble. Additionally, the service logs will give you a peek into any past, present, and even future problems the caravan might have: if the logs show window and door seals needing regular replacement, or persistent leaks popping up in the body, it’s safe to assume these problems will continue to appear once the caravan is yours.

It is also a good idea to check if any parts of the caravan or appliances inside it are still under warranty, as this could save you money on future repairs. Almost all new caravans in Australia will come with a minimum two-year warranty on the frame, and usually a one-year manufacturer’s warranty for the appliances, while some OEMs will offer 5-year or even 10-year warranties on the frame and chassis.

Lastly, make sure to obtain a roadworthiness certificate to ensure that the caravan is in a condition to be safely towed. Roadworthy certificates are compulsory if you’re buying a used caravan, and can be obtained at most caravan dealers or service centres for a few hundred dollars. Before booking one, be sure to check the regulations for your state or territory, as you might also need a gas compliance certificate if your caravan has a gas supply permanently installed.

Paying Safely

Securing your payment is paramount. Opting for a bank transfer is usually the safest method, as it provides a clear record of the transaction, as well as the ability to dispute or reverse the payment if it turns out the seller or caravan isn’t what you thought they were.

Always insist on receiving a written receipt that outlines the specifics of your deal and includes details like the caravan’s make, model, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). For an extra layer of security, especially with larger purchases where you might be transferring tens of thousands of dollars, consider using an escrow service to keep your money safe until the sale has been finalised and you’ve confirmed that the caravan meets all your expectations.

Extras to Expect

When buying a used caravan, think about the extras that might come with it or what you may need to purchase separately. Accessories like awnings, portable BBQs and external showers can greatly improve your quality of life and may even come with the caravan, while others, including big-ticket items such as solar panels and batteries, may need to be purchased separately.

It is also essential that you insure your caravan before you hit the road with it. Most owners will choose to roll their caravan insurance into their existing coverage, but there are specialist caravan insurance policies out there if it’s something you’re interested in.

Finally – and this is the part that many, many buyers forget – don’t overlook the importance of storage. While many caravan owners in Australia will have space to store their caravan in their driveway, under a carport or on a street, if you don’t have any of these options available to you (or if your caravan is too big for them to be viable) then you will need to arrange storage somewhere else.

This could be somewhere simple like a locked, fenced yard, or at a specialist storage centre. Wherever you choose, just make sure you’ve organised it before you collect your caravan.

Budgeting Smartly

Deciding how much to spend on a caravan includes considering both the initial purchase price and ongoing costs such as maintenance, insurance, and storage. Setting a clear budget can help you avoid overspending and ensure that your caravan purchase fits comfortably within your financial means.

Start Your Journey to Caravan Ownership With Credit One

If you’re looking to buy a used caravan, Credit One can help. With extensive access to lenders and a range of finance options, including secured caravan loans, commercial hire purchases and private sale loans, we offer a quick pathway to loan approval and a loan that fits your financial situation and needs. Contact our team now and take your first step towards caravan ownership.

If you’ve got your eye on a secondhand caravan and are wondering what it will cost, use our caravan loan calculator to set your loan term, loan amount, and interest rate, and find out just how affordable financing can be. And if you’re still wondering what to get, explore the range of caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers for sale at Only Vans and find your dream model today.