I am looking at buying my first caravan and have decided on Lunar Quasar FB 2007 touring. The problem is that one is private sale and another is garage..
The private one has the following with it. twin motor movers (4) ,Vango Air awning, two gas bottles one is full and the other is half, water and waste water tanks, cable for on site also cable adaptors for car and garage 240v when parked at home. Sevice was last year with a few things replace this one is £9.500 to buy.also has been well looked after.
The other is garage sale no extras and it's a 2008. 1 year warranty price is the same 9k.
What I am looking to know Is the private one worth the 9.500 because of the extras?
In a word yes!
But get a local caravan repair centre to go and look at it with you, it might cost you say £100 but could save you a few grand in the long run.
If the owner says what it is, then they should have no problem with you doing that.
After all its a big investment for anyone to buy.
Check this post Elddis - don`t repeat my mistake
I bought a Indiana private 4 years ago for 7.5k with all the eqipment, plus mover. px at dealer last year for 7.5k
Sold main awning, kept the porch awning etc, so i was lucky.
either way take a damp meter and check both vans over fully, the one with all the bits could end up costing you more if you don't bother spending £20 on a damp meter
Thanks for the replys.
I just got the service from lastyear on the private one. There is two damp readings between 35 and 40 not sure what to be looking for in the readings.. All other readings are from 12 to 16.
Hi first of all if you wish to do your own damp test then a cheap meter that only beeps is of no use all wood has a level of moisture so all meters will bleep you need one that gives a digital read out, readings of around 12% in a dry van is normal if it has 20% it will require remedial work. and at 40% best to walk away. As for dealer or private purchase, Dealer it wont be stolen, it will be serviced before you take ownership comes with a warranty there will be lots of choice to look at and hopefully you will get the van which is right for you and not what you think may be the right one. Private sale it could be an advantage if you get to see at the owners house, if the house is cared for chances are so is the caravan, and you will likely get extras thrown in the deal, and you may save a few quid too.
We came back to caravanning recently after a break of 3 years, we decided on a dealer purchase, with a bit of a haggle we got waste and fresh tanks, electric lead, step, and the gas bottles for free, the awning we brought secondhand we also got a full 12mth warranty so all in all I think we had a good deal. My advice to you is don't rush in take your time and hang out for the one that really suits you best.
Good luck theres loads of help and advice here too
------------- its our imperfections that makes us perfect
Forgot to say some mobile engineers will carry out an inspection for you before you part with your cash, that could be money well spent. Search MCEA for one near you.
Also take a few moments to read the post from Mid Life Crisis on here about the Elddis caravan you may find that useful
------------- its our imperfections that makes us perfect
Quote: Originally posted by richardandjo2010 on 17/1/2017
Forgot to say some mobile engineers will carry out an inspection for you before you part with your cash, that could be money well spent. Search MCEA for one near you.
Also take a few moments to read the post from Mid Life Crisis on here about the Elddis caravan you may find that useful
I have just commented on that Elddis post, because I don't think any particular make is necessarily worse than any other. I have an Elddis caravan that is nearly 30 years old, and it's fine. Not perfect obviously, but perfectly usable, and we do. Its all about the individual van, how well it was made and how well it has been looked after. Check any caravan over very carefully before you buy, or get a professional to do it for you.
Totally agree Colin, I believe all vans built 30yrs ago were built with a better build quality than todays vans, having said that I think that's probably the same as with most products.
------------- its our imperfections that makes us perfect
Thanks you all for the information.
After looking around and researching a lot!!! I decided to up my budget and purchers 2013 Bailey Ancona 6 berth. I am picking it up next week and can't wait to get started. As its first time I still have a few Q's .
* insurance ( caravan )who to use and do safety devices lower the cost like the alko ones?
* Is it worth joining a club? If so what one?
*Storage with or without out a cover?
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Buy my first.
