Camper value/price

[SWAMP FOX]

I'm looking at buying used 2005 Jayco camper. It's about 26-28' and seems to be in fair to good shape.

The asking price is $4000. I don't know if this is a fair price or if I'm getting taken.

There is some water damage in the front where the master bedroom is and I've provide pix of the damage. I can't tell how serious it is at this point.

Also the hot water heater doesn't work but I've been told it just needs a couple of thermostats. Everything else--AC, toilet, shower, heater, gas stove, oven, micro wave all work the way they're supposed to.

Any advice info would be appreciated.

[NeonMoon]

Do some internet searches for similar values (look around on Craigslist, try Search Tempest). Always gets me to see an ad where something needs fixed, and included "easy fix" (not that yours claimed that), or statements made to leave one to believe any repairs are minor. If it's easy, why don't they fix it? The fact they've chosen not to make inexpensive repairs generally leads me to believe there's more to it than is being told.

I'd be sure the tank at least holds water, and hasn't froze and burst (if the water is shut-off to the tank). Isn't it a LP heater? If so, I doubt the thermostat (gas valve) would come cheap, better off replacing the heater. If it's electric (or dual LP/electric) and the electric side isn't working, as long as the tank is good, the element (I'd guess it'd only have one, so one thermostat as well) could probably be replaced fairly reasonably (if you did it yourself).

2005 was also the same year Katrina hit, so I'd also try and trace the history of the trailer.

ETA: It seems looking at the walls, there has been a moisture problem in the trailer.

[DRPEPPER]

I agree!!
For just a couple of $Thousand$ more, you should be able to find a fully functional camper. Don't buy any campers or boats knowing you have to work on them!!! You will never get around to fixing everything. Plus, they are expensive to work on.
On the other hand, they depriciate so fast, I don't think I would ever buy a brand new one. People buy them all of the time and learn camping is not for them. You can pick up a deal that is just a few years old.
DP

[Mrs. Crappie Stalker]

You can get info here: RV Prices, RV Reviews, RV Values, Camper & Trailer Specs, Motorhome Value | NADAguides | NADA RV, Recreational Vehicle Price & Appraisal Guides | NADAguides

I'd be concerned at the water damage.

We bought our first RV last spring - used, but in great shape. The folks went through everything in it with us (and I do mean everything) The manufacturer is no longer in business, which was a concern at first, but since so many replacement parts are universal we felt like it wasn't a problem. We're very happy with it.

[JD1]

MHO Run, do not walk to the nearest exit. I know that around here anyway you could find a better rig. That water damage is scary. With that much damage showing what is underneath could be much worse. Water and cheap a#@ed plywood do not mix.

[huls1]

MHO Run, do not walk to the nearest exit. I know that around here anyway you could find a better rig. That water damage is scary. With that much damage showing what is underneath could be much worse. Water and cheap a#@ed plywood do not mix.

and with the water damage you have to worry about mold that could make you very sick

[popper]

not a good deal at that price if you have to work on it , shop you will find a better deal

[BULLFROG-1]

Back when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans,the government bought billions*(17 billion i think)dollars worth of campers.I wouldnt pay alot for any camper --way too many bargains around.I would check the roof seams for cracking,too.

[Scott S]

I rebuilt a camper with similar damage back in 1988, at my age today (53) the energy and enthusiasm no longer exists to try it again. If you intend to use it as is and if the price is right when compared to an undamaged unit then okay.
SS

[popper]

jost to give you a idea of cost my camper had a pine tree about the size of your leg brake from the snow and ice some of the limbs put holes in the roof , its at the shop right now getting the roof replaced its costing 9899.00 just to replace the rubber roof