How to Price a Used Airstream Camper

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If you are considering purchasing an Airstream camper for yourself, do not pay the asking price right away. Establish an accurate value of the camper and make a counter offer if you feel the original is too high. During your first tour of the camper, determine if the interior is fully restored, has average wear or is in need of restoration before starting the pricing process. This will give you a good idea of how well the Airstream was treated and how much work is needed. Once you have viewed the camper, you can better figure an accurate price.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Look over the unit for damages that will need repairing; have a mechanic look over the Airstream to locate any mechanical issues. Ask the mechanic to give you a ballpark figure on the cost of repairs; add to that how much interior repairs will cost. Don't forget the outer shell. Since it is made of metal, it could very well have some dents that need repairing.

Step 2

Check with the NADA listing to find prices of Airstreams. The book lists the campers through 1975. You can also access NADA online. See Resources. Locate the camper model that you are considering and check the price. You can narrow it down by selecting camper features, such as what size furnace it has. Consider if it has a waste water tank; keep in mind whether it has luxury features, such as power seats or multimedia equipment.

Step 3

Add together the cost of improvements done to the trailer that are not considered in the NADA guide, such as a kitchen remodel with nicer cabinets and appliances or an upgrade in sound system.

Step 4

Subtract repair costs from the price you determined the Airstream is worth, through comparison and the NADA listings. Add in improvements that were done to the camper. This will give you an accurate price of what the Airstream is worth. What you decide to pay through negotiations is up to you.

Tips & Warnings

Look up prices of used Airstream campers that are similar to the one you are considering. Use this as a tool to compare prices and get a more accurate idea of its worth.

Resources

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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