Blue Book Values for RVs

Whether you're looking for a used camper to buy or are thinking of selling your recreational vehicle, you should research the blue book values for RVs to get an idea of fair pricing. Some experts refuse to utilize the blue book values, but others remain true to this source of information. Being informed about blue book values certainly won't hinder your transactions.

Learn more about buying RVs

The Kelley Blue Book was established in 1918 and has become the United States' premier means for assessing values for used and new vehicles of all types. The company's website boasts its number one ranking as "the" site Internet users go to for information about new and used vehicle estimates.

The company was founded by Les Kelley as Kelley Kar Company. He started the business with his 13-year-old brother Buster and an inventory of three used Model T Fords. With a desire to increase his inventory, he created a list of various cars he wanted for his car lot with prices he thought were fair. This list was circulated and quickly became a trusted resource for other dealers and various banks.

In 1926, the first Kelley Blue Book was published. As the years progressed, the book expanded and became the trusted reference for vehicle dealers and buyers nationwide. It includes values for all kinds of automobiles, RVs, motorcycles, personal watercrafts, mobile homes and snowmobiles. The books include a variety of information, such as: private party estimates, trade-in values and suggested retail prices.

The Kelley Blue Book takes into account the actual prices for automobiles when making estimates for cars and trucks. However, the blue book values for RVs are figured differently. They are estimated based on a percentage of the manufacturer's suggested retail price (M.S.R.P.). Kelly Blue Book prices for RVs have been criticized as sometimes being unrealistically high and low, depending on the make and model.

The blue book values are a great way to start finding a base price. However, they don't allow for various features and options to increase or decrease the price. Factors such as condition and age are important and should be serious considerations when a price is being set. Mileage of the RV should be taken into account. Accessories that the RV has, such as air conditioning, satellite, kitchen appliances, mirrors and awnings add to the value of the RV, but are not included in blue book options. Other options, such as slide-outs, do increase the value.

The blue book value of a camper rates are, however, a good starting point when you are considering buying or selling. The "Official RV Guide - Motor Homes, Campers, Van Conversions (1986-2007)" is available for just over $50 a year. For that one-time price, you'll receive three issues of the book, January, May and September. This includes values for used rigs and list prices for new RVs.

You can also find previously owned copies available from individual sellers on Amazon. Be sure to check the year if you are ordering a used copy so that you'll be aware of how current the information provided really is.

The "Official RV Guide - Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels, Folding Trailers" is also available for just over $50. You'll get both April and October issues, each of which will include used RV values and costs of new trailers.

By using the MSRP or the blue book value of a camper, you'll have a good idea of the prices for RVs. If you're in the market to purchase one, you will have a much better concept of what you can and can't afford based on these estimates of list prices.

If you are in the market to sell your RV, you can increase its value by just making a few improvements or modifications to it. For instance, new curtains, carpet or updated appliances add value. Cleaning it from top to bottom makes it look even better, which can increase the value of your RV. Keep a good record of maintenance performed on your RV to show that you've taken good care of it.

While Kellley Blue Book Values for RVs aren't perfect, they provide a good start when you want to estimate the value of a recreational vehicle.

Want to learn more about RVs? Whether you're looking for information about buying, selling, or using an RV, you'll find great information in:

Vintage RVs

Used Travel Trailers

Expandable Campers

• National Parks Camping Guide
• Camping Sites in NC State Parks
• Buy Discount Camping Gear

• Nudist Campsites
• Lightweight Tent Trailers
• Cars That Can be Flat Towed Behind Motor Home
• Nude Camping
• Blue Book Values for RVs

• How Do I Find the Value Of a Pop Up Camper
• Used Diesel Motor Homes
• Used Tent Camper Values
• Best Time to Buy a RV
• Used RV Values