Advice
How to stay safe when selling your motorhome privately
Selling a motorhome for the first time can be confusing. We understand you might have a lot of questions, which is why we’ve created a guide of things to consider, to keep you safe during the sale.
Words by: Auto Trader
Published on 30 June 2019 | 0 min read
Most people are comfortable with getting their motorhome online and doing jobs like preparing it, taking pictures and writing their advert. However, we know people can find it daunting when someone is coming round to view your motorhome.
We want you to feel confident enough to stay in control all the way through the process, which is why we have got together this list of things to think about.
We want you to feel confident enough to stay in control all the way through the process, which is why we have got together this list of things to think about.
Prepare
Find all the relevant paperwork a buyer could ask for, this includes the service history and MOT certificate.
It is fine for a buyer to check documents like this but never let them photograph these.
It is fine for a buyer to check documents like this but never let them photograph these.
Arranging viewings
When a prospective buyer tries to arrange a viewing, get their details. You will need their full name and phone number.
Beware of scammers
Lets face it, you’d find it tough to get a buyer to commit to a motorhome if they can’t see it in the flesh beforehand.
It’s a good idea to meet the buyer. When you do, request their contact details including; their telephone number or full home address, proof of identity (passport or driving licence) and ask them if they have insurance which covers test drives. A legitimate buyer will be happy to produce these.
It’s a good idea to meet the buyer. When you do, request their contact details including; their telephone number or full home address, proof of identity (passport or driving licence) and ask them if they have insurance which covers test drives. A legitimate buyer will be happy to produce these.
Test drives
When your motorhomes’ buyer arrives, greet them and request their ID and proof of insurance. If you’ve mentioned these before, it should be completely fine. If they do not have insurance which covers a test drive, you will probably be liable if there is an accident.
If the buyer arrives in a vehicle, take a note of the number plate and any other details you can spot. This will give you extra details on the buyer to cover you in the event of anything going wrong. When you meet them, avoid showing any additional security you use e.g alarms, locks etc. At this point they are still a stranger and your security is paramount. Do not allow a buyer to test drive your motorhome alone. Don’t leave them alone with the vehicle, the keys, or let them borrow your documents. If you have a keyless fob, keep it on you at all times, even on a test drive. Never jeopardise your personal safety - if you’re uncomfortable at any time, walk away.
If the buyer arrives in a vehicle, take a note of the number plate and any other details you can spot. This will give you extra details on the buyer to cover you in the event of anything going wrong. When you meet them, avoid showing any additional security you use e.g alarms, locks etc. At this point they are still a stranger and your security is paramount. Do not allow a buyer to test drive your motorhome alone. Don’t leave them alone with the vehicle, the keys, or let them borrow your documents. If you have a keyless fob, keep it on you at all times, even on a test drive. Never jeopardise your personal safety - if you’re uncomfortable at any time, walk away.
Payment
Only take a price for the motorhome which you are happy with - once the deal is done it is too late to get any extra money.
Never hand the motorhome over until you have confirmation from your bank that the payment has cleared. If you are considering accepting a cheque or bankers draft, remember this will take a few days for these funds to clear.
Never hand the motorhome over until you have confirmation from your bank that the payment has cleared. If you are considering accepting a cheque or bankers draft, remember this will take a few days for these funds to clear.
Sell your motorhome now
There’s no time like the present, why not get your motorhome in front of the 330,000 buyers who come to our site every month now? Advertise your motorhome here.