These days, finding the perfect second hand caravan is similar to trying to find a needle in a haystack there just arent a whole lot out there that are going to meet all of your expectations. This has led people to look for other options when it comes to finding an appropriate used caravan one of these being the search for vans that have a few problems that can be cheaply and easily fixed, allowing you to haggle the price (and hopefully get a bargain).

When you go to view a second hand caravan that has been advertised for sale, make sure that you take a pad and pen with you on which you can note down any problems or issues that you spot during your inspection. It is important to note these things down for a number of reasons firstly, it prevents you from forgetting about them and, secondly, you will be able to show the seller exactly what you are talking about when it comes time to haggle.

So, what second hand caravan problems are not as serious as others and that could allow you to grab a bargain?

Appliances that do not work: whilst it can be a bit of an inconvenience to come across a caravan that has some appliances that do not work (like the refrigerator or the stove), they are easily replaced. Make sure that you ask the seller whether those appliances are included with the van as is, and then get into haggling because they do not work.

Flat or damaged upholstery: exposure to sunlight and general wear and tear can cause the upholstery of a second hand caravan to become ripped and stained, or for the cushion inserts to become flat and hard. You can recover cushions, however, and replace the stuffing if you so wish. Make sure that you thoroughly check over all the upholstery for damage before bringing it up with the seller.

Window cracks: like the broken appliances, discovering cracks in your window can be more of an inconvenience then anything, but they can help you to get the price of the caravan down (especially if the seller has tried to do some dodgy repairs). Emphasis the fact that you will definitely need to get any damaged windows replaced and that its going to cost you x amount of dollars to do this.

There are a number of other smaller problems and issues that could enable you to get a second hand caravan for a bargain price if you are willing to spend a little extra to get them fixed, but there are some problems that you should avoid at all costs. The biggest of these is damp (as indicated by a spongy floor, discolouration and a damp odor) and, as soon as you notice it, you should leave and never look back.