By Cheri Sicard
Buying an RV from a private seller can seem like a great way to save money. However, it also opens the door to scams. Duane, our favorite certified RV inspector from RV Inspection And Care channel, is here to help.
Buying from private sellers can be more dangerous than going to a dealership. At least with dealers, you know who you’re working with. It’s a real business at a real location with real people and RVs. Buying from a private seller, especially from a distance, is riskier.
The internet and social media have made long distance RV buying possible. Sadly, this has also created opportunities for scammers who can use the anonymity of the internet to their advantage.
How private seller RV scams work
Scammers use a variety of tactics to trick RV buyers. It’s important to know what to look for. This way, people can avoid becoming a victim.
• The bait: Unbelievable prices: Scammers often post ads with unbelievably low prices. They do this to lure in potential buyers. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. These low prices get people emotionally invested. Scammers know that excitement can cloud someone’s judgment.
• The lure: Minimal RV details: Scam ads usually have very little information about the RV. There might be only one or two photos of the outside. Readers should be wary of ads with vague descriptions and few pictures.
• The hook: Text or email only: Scammers like to avoid phone calls. This helps them stay anonymous. Communication is key, and scammers don’t want to get on the phone. If a seller only wants to communicate through text or email, that’s a red flag.
• The story: Heartstrings and pressure: Scammers often use sob stories to explain the low price. They might say they need money for an urgent surgery or are facing foreclosure. They might also claim a family emergency. They also apply pressure. Scammers create a sense of urgency, saying many other buyers are interested. They demand a large down payment, or even full payment, before inspection. Scammers thrive on pressure. Don’t let them rush you into a bad decision.
• The disappearing act: Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears. This leaves the buyer with nothing. Falling for this scam can be devastating.
Protect yourself: Spotting and avoiding private seller RV scams
There are several ways to protect against RV buying scams. By following these tips, readers can stay safe.
• Talk to a real person: Always insist on talking to the seller on the phone. A legitimate seller will be happy to answer questions over the phone. If they refuse, that’s a major red flag.
• Verify ownership: Request a copy of the RV title and the seller’s ID. Make sure the name on the title matches the ID. This simple step can weed out many scammers. It’s also important to make sure the title isn’t fake.
• Live video walk-through: Insist on a live video tour of the RV. Have the seller show the outside, inside, model, VIN number, and interior features. If they refuse or make excuses, be suspicious. If someone is unsure how to do a live video, a friend or family member can help.
• Ask detailed questions: Ask specific questions about the RV’s service history, maintenance, and repairs. Request copies of repair invoices to verify their claims. A legitimate seller will have detailed records and be willing to share them.
• Protect your personal information: Never give out bank details, social security numbers, or other sensitive information. Scammers can use this information for identity theft or fraud. Your personal information is valuable. Protect it fiercely.
• Motorhome history check: For motorhomes, run a Carfax or FaxVIN report using the VIN. This can reveal accidents, theft, flood damage, and service history. Knowing the vehicle’s background is essential.
• Keep down payments small: A small down payment ($100-$300) can show a seller someone is serious. Avoid large down payments before seeing the RV in person. Scammers use large down payments to maximize their profits.
• Avoid pressure: Don’t let sellers rush you into a quick decision. Take time to research and consider the purchase. A legitimate seller will respect the need to make an informed decision.
• Get a professional RV inspection: Hire an NRVIA-certified RV inspector to verify the RV’s existence and condition. The inspector can identify hidden problems and confirm the seller’s claims. A professional inspection can help protect an investment.
• Payment in person: Pay for the RV in person at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Exchange the money for the title as it’s signed over. This protects both the buyer and the seller. Online payments leave people vulnerable to fraud.
• Trust your gut: If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. There are plenty of other RVs for sale. Don’t fall in love with a potential scam. Your gut is often right. Don’t ignore it. Patience is key to finding the right RV.
Buying an RV from private sellers can be risky. However, it can also be rewarding if you’re careful. Use the tips provided to protect yourself. With the right knowledge and precautions, anyone can find the RV of their dreams without falling victim to a scam.
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No doubt there are thousands of RV dealer scams all over the internet, not just private sellers…Craigslist comes to mind right off..along with Ebay.
JB; I purchased my 1987 El Camino on Ebay and also our 2nd motorhome – a 34′ Winnebago Vectra. I haven’t had any undisclosed problems with either and remain email pen pals to this day. (10-15 yrs!) I have virtually no fear on EBay as they have a purchase guarantee which is pretty much iron clad. I’ve only had one seller of a smaller item refuse to send the item as he didn’t get the money he tho’t he would – Ebay refunded my payment and barred him from selling on their site.
The flip side: avoid scams when selling an RV.
1-‘Here, use my favorite website & send me a VIN report’. Scam: malware on link or getting RV data to scam somebody else w/ fake ownership “sale.”
2-‘Love your RV, don’t even need to look at it. I’ll send cashiers check & a week later (for it to “clear”), I’ll have my driver pick it up’. Scam: ck is bogus or stolen from somebody else’s acct.
You can NEVER be too careful. If a purchaser OR a seller sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
In 2006 I purchased my current RV (2001 Lazy Daze motorhome) from a private seller and had a great experience. We have been in touch ever since. She went way beyond my expectations of what a seller should be like. However, I know that this is not always the case.
On the opposite end of the spectrum was the dealer that sold me my first RV (1983 Toyota Dolphin). He rotated the tires so that the bald spots were not visible and, being a newbie, I didn’t know how to check everything out. Not all the refrigerator parts were there so I had to ask for them. Again, this is not true of all dealers.
The advice in the article should be burned into our brains, whether buying or selling.
Thank you for the video and the summary of its points, Cheri! Lots of good information here. We have only dealt with dealers in our two RV purchases. This tends to push me to continue the trend. Have a great day and safe travels!