investigating the seller June 13, 2015, 05:52:06 am Yahoo Message Number: 153302Isn't it interesting how the same seller can elicit two opinions from the opposite ends of the spectrum? I dealt with the Chicago seller of that '04 RB and we had even made a verbal handshake on the deal. Just a couple of days before I was to go pick it up, he calls me and announces that he has sold it to someone else.....unless I wanted to re-open negotiations. I told him to take a hike. Based on the later reports of the problems that rig had with all those suspension upgrades, I'm glad he stiffed me on the deal. Two years later we bought an '05 RB from a gentleman who was exactly that. Much better price and a better equipped rig. The deal was flawless. His asking price was incredibly reasonable and I didn't dicker at all - offered his price and had a check in the mail that afternoon. He even delivered the rig to us from NM to New England!WxToad -- Sent from WxToad's Galaxy S5 via K9
Re: investigating the seller Reply #1 – June 13, 2015, 08:40:50 am Yahoo Message Number: 153303I kind of go along with Ted. But let me explain. Because the talking through type sentences is different than just discussing the topic around a camp fire words take different weight. When I was looking for my LD I came across one in AZ. It seemed like a good deal, but not a real good deal. The owners were were really pressuring me to buy NOW. Looking into things a little more they were a almost but not quite a dealership. They bought RVs, did some sprucing up and then sold them. To the point that they had a few at any one time. This only came out by accident. Compared with two other experiences - a near purchase deal and the purchase deal. One a LD in Oregon being sold by the owner that was getting a class a and just wanted to sell. The other was an LD near LA that the owner wanted to sell because they were not using it. In second two cases the RV's and owners had much in common with the people in AZ. But the first folks mentioned were very quiet about the fact that they were basically just flipping RV. That is not such a big deal in of it self but how they more less hid the fact sent warning flags out. I did not buy the RV in Oregon even though it was a great deal because I would have had to drive across country in middle of winter and by the time I was ready the RV was sold. I was actually happy for the owners (former and newer). I learned a lot about the owner in CA just by talking to him. He also learned a lot about me I am sure.Lets face it, your flying across country and meeting an absolute stranger to conduct a deal. Both the seller and the buyer are putting themselves in what could be a risky position. I see no harm in doing enough research into the buyer/seller so you feel safe climbing into their car and going some place with them (or if your the buyer picking them up and meeting them with something as valuable as an RV. For each of us that level of trust is going to be a little different.By the way, I too had a great experience. I flew from Washington DC to LA. Met a great family. His wife while out shopping picked up enough food to last me a few days so I would not have to deal with the local shopping centers while learning where the corners were located on the RV. And yes, we learned a lot about each other as we spoke over the phone.But my friends were shocked that I would take the risk of getting into a strangers car in a strange city.But the level of trust was there for both of us. He picked me up and we went to his house to complete the deal. After he sure I could operate all the equipment and taught me how to dump the tanks then gave me tips on driving in traffic. After driving around the neighborhood we we tackled the interstate and did the short drive to the LD factory so I could pick up a few things. He even showed me the way to the KOA walking me through the process of renting a campsite. This was really great stuff for someone that never owned a RV and only camped in public parks. John 2 Likes
Re: investigating the seller Reply #2 – June 13, 2015, 09:09:06 am Yahoo Message Number: 153304I have to chime in one more time. I thought that I was an extreme risk taker to fly across the country and drive an old RV home.
Follow-ups Re: investigating the seller - Single woman comment Re: investigating the seller Reply #3 – June 13, 2015, 11:12:44 am Yahoo Message Number: 153305Another thought:As a single woman. I'm reluctant to buy used on multiple levels. For starters, personal safety. So while I may end up buying new when my retirement time comes, I have a new possibility: buying used off this board.When shopping RVs, learning about them and their pros/cons, I stumbled upon this board, and it has really stood out. LDs and their owners are just 'different.' More like a community. While you all may not actually know each other personally, you certainly share an internet friendship here.Those of you looking now for a used LD might be able to 'research" the seller and their RV, just going through messages on this board. In my book, this could add a degree of comfort when buying used.LOL. This my first post, and it looks like I'm trying to sell an LD. Not at all. But I am enjoying your community spirit. Maybe one day, I'll be among you.Cheers and good day, DW 2 Likes
Re: investigating the seller Reply #4 – June 13, 2015, 11:59:56 am Yahoo Message Number: 153306Welcome to the Lazy Daze forum, DW. We like to think that the words "friendship" and "community" apply to us. When it comes time for you to acquire a Lazy Daze, used or new, I hope you will use the resources of our experienced and knowledgeable Lazy Daze owners to help you make the right decision.Chris 1 Likes
Re: investigating the seller Reply #5 – June 13, 2015, 12:15:01 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153307Quote Quote When shopping RVs, learning about them and their pros/cons, I stumbled upon this board, and it has really stood out. LDs and their owners are just 'different.' DW,In 2008, my husband and I also were interested in buying an RV. We were total newbies--had never camped before--with no clue what kind of RV we would most enjoy. We stumbled on this forum, just as you have, began studying the posts, and came to know and trust the expertise of the different voices/people we discovered here.Ultimately, we did buy a brand-new 2009 Lazy Daze, in part because this forum gave us confidence. We knew we would have lots of support if we ever needed it.It's now been almost exactly six years since we picked up our mid-bath at the factory, and we have enjoyed every minute of the journey since. Our pleasure has included getting to know personally a good number of the people who post on this forum. They've helped us when we had LD-related questions, and they've encouraged us through difficult times when things weren't going well for us. Many have become personal friends.This is a excellent support network, and the Lazy Daze motorhomes are excellent, too.Martha in Santa Fe 2 Likes
Re: investigating the seller Reply #6 – June 13, 2015, 12:18:47 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153308dw310, If you decide to pursue a used LD I would suggest hiring a qualified RV technician to go along with you for the inspection of the unit. Along with strength in numbers, they may see something you missed and vice versa. The security this will give you is worth the price for several reasons. I have only purchased 2 new vehicles in my life. From the $600 Datsun pickup I bought as a teenager to my LD have never had a bad experience buying used. With a little common sense and patience you can avoid lots of depreciation and save some $$. Paranoia is unhealthy.bobmoore14
Re: investigating the seller Reply #7 – June 13, 2015, 01:28:53 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153309Thanks everyone.Bob,I agree. Buying used can save a lot.I bought a Honda Certified used 2004 CRV in 2007. Paid for the extended warranty (which was not necessary and did not pay for itself.) This car continues to be simply great. So I'm not at all opposed to used, if I can get someone I trust to look it over, or get it guaranteed.Unfortunately, I must work for several more years. But when the time comes, I would definitely get someone who knows what they're doing to evaluate a used RV. Thanks for your thoughts.Cheers and good day, DW
Re: investigating the seller Reply #8 – June 13, 2015, 01:49:02 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153310I cam very close to buying a few times. Interestingly in the three cases I mentioned above the two positive occurrences were with people associated with the board. I would not suggest every one on the board is straight and narrow, or even that those not on the board are not. In a community you can get a feel for a person by the post they have made. Those postings help with the level of trust I was trying to explain.I'll second the suggestion of getting the RV checked out by a pro. I believe that would be wise have the pro check the RV before flying out to make the purchase but if your more local it is worth going with them to see the RV. This would be something to discuss with the pro.I did not follow my own advise and still had a good experience. But regardless of what my wife will tell you I did have a return flight booked and ticket in my pocket just in case. John
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #9 – June 13, 2015, 04:03:57 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153312May suggest looking a many rv's both new and used. You can get a good feel for the good, bad, and just plain ugly. As you kick the tires without any pressure to buy you get an idea what you really like and maybe more important what you don't like. As an aside its been about a year and about 12000 miles since we acquired our 24ft TK. We bought new because we, my wife and I, know my repair ability -- next to zero. I'm learning but at my age time is more important then money.Glen
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #10 – June 13, 2015, 04:33:06 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153313Repairs are my biggest phobia. As I read so many boards, all the repair/upgrade talk, especially the electrical talk, intimidates me. I made a wood table once, so I'm not afraid to do that kind of work, but I'm certainly no mechanical or electrical genius. Moreover, I don't think I could ever climb on top of the RV. I'm afraid to climb a ladder! So reliability is a strong attraction to a new LD. But my used CRV has needed very little work, and general consensus on LD is, it seems, strong in the industry for reliability.I joined that RV Consumer Group, and clicked the sortable heading 'reliability' for all motorhome RVs listed (nearly 11000 motorhomes). Guess what manufacturer was at the top? #1 is LD. As one fearful of frequent or complicated repairs, that sounds like the manufacturer for me. Cheers and good day.DW 1 Likes
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #11 – June 13, 2015, 04:33:23 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153314I think quality is very important. Back in the late 70's and 80's - before I knew about Lazy Daze - I kicked a lot of tires, and made notes about everything I saw in the RV world. And I spent a lot of time in the RV lots in California. There were lots of them then.We were camping in a 1978 Volkswagen Campmobile and wanted to upgrade. We saw the Adventurewagen and fell in love with it, but it was an entire TEN THOUSAND dollars more than a brand-new Volkswagen Westfalia. So in 1987, we sprung for the Westfalia and spent four happy years camping in it. BUT THEN . . . I discovered Lazy Daze in 1991 when I saw a local for a 22-foot model not far from where we lived in Silicon Valley. WOW - a bathroom, heat, and two beds on the floor. Bye-bye Westfalia; Hello Lazy Daze!During the 80's, we not only kicked tires, but also rented many different units to ascertain what size and configuration suited us best, and to get an idea of the quality of the different brands. Some of them, even relatively new units, were really awful. In 1991, when we went to look at the 1985 Lazy Daze TK, it was a real eye opener at the difference in quality. We were convinced. We spent ten wonderful years with that RV, and subsequent owners have also utilized the rig to the fullest.Enter eight years of fulltiming in a big rig. When that period came to a screeching halt, we turned back to Lazy Daze and now have a 2005 RB that basically looks brand new, that we are very fond of. We bought it when it was four years old and had 7500 hundred miles on it; we've put on about an equal number. The first owner had it stored in covered parking, and we keep it the same, so the outside looks fresh. The inside looks like it has just come from the factory. I believe that is an incredible testimony to the quality of the brand.It's always been a mystery to me why anyone would buy a different brand Class C, but I guess that's what makes the world go 'round! ;->Virtual hugs,Judie http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #12 – June 13, 2015, 04:54:19 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153315"I think quality is very important." Could not agree more. My path to L.D. started with a VW Bus, a truck camper, and 2 SOB Class C RV's that caused me constant problems. Then I found this group and Andy's website. Got a good education on quality construction vs. mass produced junk. As I have said before, I think there are 2 kinds of educated class C RV owners. The ones that own a Lazy Daze, and the ones that wish they did.bobmoore14 2 Likes
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #13 – June 13, 2015, 05:56:05 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153316"Repairs are my biggest phobia."----- *Every* RV, any brand, any type, any size, any power plant, new, old, or pick of the litter in its class, is going to need ongoing maintenance and repairs; a "wart free" RV is not a reality, particularly when it's not consistently and diligently serviced and maintained.The initial quality of the engine, platform, systems, and components is critical to determining the longevity of a (motorized) RV, and the initial coach build quality features of design, engineering, weight distribution, materials, skilled and careful workmanship, etc., are equally important.But, the older the rig is, even if it's of very high initial build quality and doesn't accrue a lot of mileage (in fact, "low" mileage on an "older" rig is not necessarily a good thing because a "sitting" rig deteriorates more quickly than one which is used regularly), the more service and maintenance and replacements and repairs it requires to keep it in top shape.Can one find a high-quality, well designed and constructed used RV in very good condition? Of course, particularly if one knows exactly how to evaluate a used (or new) rig for soundness and eliminates the "entry-level" offerings from the start, but one might have to kiss a lot of frogs before the "right one" comes along.I don't say any of this to dissuade people from owning an RV - I am very fond of my 12-year-old goseedo machine - but the reality is that the "costs of ownership" (for far too many things to list here) over the years range *well* beyond the initial purchase price and outlays for fuel.RVing is not an inexpensive lifestyle in any way; it's a wonderful, "freeing" lifestyle, but it does require regular infusions of cash to keep the thing properly serviced/repaired/outfitted and going down the road.As ever, YMMV. ;-)Joan 1 Likes
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #14 – June 13, 2015, 06:34:54 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153317Someone wondered why anyone would buy anything other than an LD. Maybe because there aren't anywhere near enough of them to go around.I have said it before and I'll say it again. No one makes a class C as functional as a LD. Nor in my eyes as pretty! The older Holiday ramblers were almost as attractive outside but lost it inside. The cheap jackknife sofas in most other brands are a far cry from the ones LD crafts themselves and it carries on from there. It is The LD part that makes them special in my opinion. I still haven't found mine but I don't do with out an RV while waiting. And unless I win big I won't be buying a new one. But I can still dream. I missed one about 40 miles away a few years back.Garry 1 Likes
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #15 – June 14, 2015, 09:56:11 am Yahoo Message Number: 153318Maybe because there aren't anywhere near enough of them to go around.--- If one wants to find a "pre-loved" LD, a good start is to check the "LDs for Sale" section of the "Buying and Selling" folder in the Files section of the message board; maybe "the right one" is there waiting! ;-)Joan
Re: buy new vs used - was investigating the seller Reply #16 – June 14, 2015, 12:44:30 pm Yahoo Message Number: 153319"Maybe because there aren't anywhere near enough of them to go around."I agree with this statement to some degree. If you are tenacious, patient, together with a little bit of luck thrown in you can find a good one. It will take some time, and probably some resources for the search. Sometimes they turn up in places you wouldn't expect, like the 26MB I saw at a used RV lot in the desert. It was there for about a week.In the park I'm currently at a gentleman complimented me on my rig looking so good for being 14 years old. He asked me if I knew any for sale. Told him about the one at the RV lot. The next time I drove by it was gone. Hope he got it. I also spotted one parked in a dirt field with a for sale sign on it, but it hadn't been well cared for. Both of these were around Pahrump, NV.bobmoore14SKP's Pair-A-Dice park
Re: investigating the seller Reply #17 – October 23, 2018, 12:07:28 pm Denise, today I’m where you were 3 years ago. Single woman, near retirement and weary of buying a used RV. What did you end up doing? Used? New LD?
Re: investigating the seller Reply #18 – October 23, 2018, 09:45:12 pm Quote from: Artemis - October 23, 2018, 12:07:28 pmDenise, today I’m where you were 3 years ago. Single woman, near retirement and weary of buying a used RV. What did you end up doing? Used? New LD? First I'm not Denise, but I wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the Lazy Daze Owner's Forum. Perhaps Denise will find your post and be able to answer your question. Her profile shows she has a 2005 26.5' Rear Bath LD. It's wise to be weary of buying a used RV especially if one is not knowledgeable about inspecting both the condition of a used vehicle and the condition of coach to include all the appliances. If someone knows a trusted person who is knowledgeable about these things, then that can reduce the risk a good bit. If someone doesn't know that kind of person, then the next option might be to find a local RV inspector. This question comes up fairly often and for many years. This Forum has a Search Feature and if you searched for Used LD or Buying a used LD or something similar you ought to get a hours worth of reading. As you conduct your research, please know your questions are always welcome on this Forum. Finally, the best of luck in your search and the beginning of your RV adventure. 1 Likes
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