Evaluating RV Sales in Kansas City: Know Before You Buy

Purchasing a new or used RV is a big decision. From the size of the RV to the amenities included in the vehicle, there are a lot of decisions to make when picking out a new rig.

During the process of purchasing an RV, choosing the right dealer to work with is the first big step. At Transwest, we are proud to provide RV sales in Kansas City. We have years of experience assisting interested buyers in finding the perfect RV for their needs, and we take pride in being a trusted Kansas City RV dealer.

If you are ready to purchase an RV in Kansas City, take some time to evaluate your options before buying. The following tips will help you make the right decision, ensuring you can enjoy your RV for years to come.

#1: Pick a Reputable Dealer

First and foremost, before you set foot on an RV lot, be sure that you are working with a reputable dealer. Unfortunately, many RV dealers are not focused on the customer’s needs, but are more focused on their bottom line.

When looking for a reputable RV dealer in Kansas City, keep all of the following in mind:

• What is their reputation? Do some digging. Do they have quality reviews online? Do others in the community speak highly of them?
• How long have they been established? Avoid shopping from small RV lots that seem to have mysteriously popped up overnight. You want to know that the dealer you purchase your RV from will be around for years to come.
• How good is their customer service? Have you ever walked onto a car lot only to be greeted by a pushy salesperson who did not take any time to get to know you or your needs? Make sure you choose an RV dealer that offers premium customer service, focused on your actual wants.

#2: Do a Little Research

Once you have found a local RV dealer you can trust, it is time to do a little research before heading to the showroom. Spend some time perusing RVs online. In many cases, the RV dealership will showcase their inventory on their website.

This makes it easy to research the makes and models that stand out to you. As you research, take some notes. This will help you stay focused when you show up to meet with a salesperson and will ensure you don’t forget any must-have items.

For example, you might write down a checklist like this:

Must-haves:

• At least two sleeping spaces
• A full bathroom with a shower
• A kitchenette
• A seating area for dining

Preferred manufacturers:

• Winnebego
• Newmar

Would be nice to have:

• An outdoor awning
• Comfortable passenger seating
• Built-in television and entertainment system

By creating a list of must-haves, preferences, and nice-to-haves, you can have a more meaningful conversation when you arrive at the dealership.

#3: Narrow Down Your Top Picks

Armed with your list from above, take some time to narrow down your top picks. Keep in mind that this doesn’t have to be the RV you settle on; it's just an exercise to help you prioritize what matters most to you.

For example, perhaps you wrote down that a nice-to-have was an outdoor awning. However, as you narrow down the options available, you realize that every single RV you put on your list has an awning. This might show you that the outdoor awning is more important than you first realized.

By narrowing down your top picks, you will start to see trends emerge, allowing you to hone in on your research list from above.

#4: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

With your list of preferences and preferred picks in hand, set up an appointment at your local RV dealership.

A salesperson can help walk you through the models you found online in person. This will give you a much better idea of what each space offers. You might even find your priority list shifting once again.

As you browse the RV lot, don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you want. If a salesperson is not open to your questions, you should find a different RV dealership.

Asking questions will help you understand every detail about the vehicle before making a purchase. This will ensure that you feel confident when you make your final choice.

#5: Take it for a Test Drive

During most of the RV sales process, you are probably focused on the amenities the RV offers. After all, RVs are designed to provide you with a home away from home.

However, don’t neglect the importance of how easy the RV is for you to drive. Maneuverability, reliability, and driver amenities are just as important as the comfort of the bed or the scope of the kitchen.

Ask to take any RV you are interested in purchasing out for a test drive. This will help you get a feel for how easy or difficult the RV will be to navigate.

#6: Evaluate a Purchase Against Your Needs

Finally, as you enter the last stages before making your RV purchase, take some time to evaluate the RV you are considering against your needs. It can be easy to get distracted on the RV lot, given the huge variety of options.

Sit down with your original checklist — perhaps with a few new edits — and double-check that everything you want is included in the RV you are about to purchase. When purchasing an RV, there is no reason to feel rushed. The key to making a good purchase is spending ample time on research and ensuring every box is checked.

Visit Us at Transwest RVs Today

Purchasing an RV is an exciting but momentous decision. If you are looking for a team to assist you with RV sales in Kansas City, our team is here to help. At Transwest, we understand how important it is for you to find the right RV for your needs.

Whether you prefer a small RV with 4x4 capabilities or a luxury coachline with plenty of room for the grandkids, we can help. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer your questions, explore all your options, and find the perfect fit for your needs. Come visit our team today!