The Full Cost of Owning a Motorhome
Motorhomes are among the most luxurious of all the RV types, but all those features do not come for free. While careful budgeting can help you afford a motorhome, you need to be aware of all the costs involved in order to stay within your price limit. That is why Sunny Island RV has created this guide to the costs of motorhome ownership.
The Motorhome's Sticker Price
The different motorhome classes roughly indicate their size relative to each other and how luxurious they are in terms of features, which is reflected in their prices. Class A motorhomes are the largest and most expensive, while Class B are the smallest and most affordable. Class C motorhomes are in the middle, both in terms of cost and in size.
Taxes and Registration
One extra expense that motorhome buyers sometimes forget about is the extra fees and taxes. These include sales tax, registration fees, and property taxes. On the upside, you may actually qualify for tax benefits, such as a benefit for buying a motorhome to be your primary residence.
Insurance
Insurance costs will depend upon the type of motorhome being insured, your driving record, and the amount of coverage you choose to purchase. Don’t forget to add this expense to your budget.
A Motorhome Loan
Most, though not all, motorhome buyers choose to finance. How much interest you will pay depends upon your credit score, the amount being borrowed, the length of time you will be borrowing, and whether the RV is new, used, refinanced, etc.
Travel Costs
There are also several travel expenses to keep in mind. One of them is fuel costs, though how much you pay will depend upon your motorhome’s fuel efficiency, how fast you go, and how much weight you carry. Maintenance is another important cost to consider. Maintaining your motorhome can be expensive, though it is well worth it when it comes to performance and operational lifespan. Finally, there is the matter of utilities like water and electricity. We recommend doing what you can to avoid waste and switching to energy-efficient appliances.
Motorhomes take up a lot of space, and if you don’t have a place on your property to store it when you are not camping, you may need to pay for a storage facility to keep it safe. While a temperature-controlled indoor space can be costly, a cheaper outdoor lot won’t offer as much protection from the weather. Do your research and decide what is right for you. One final cost to keep in mind is campsite fees. The better the spot, the more it will typically cost, so plan your trip accordingly.
To view Sunny Island RV’s selection of new and pre-owned motorhomes, visit our dealership in Rockford, Illinois. We also offer parts, financing, and servicing, so come to us for all your RV-related needs. We are proud to serve the northern Illinois area, including major communities like Naperville and Chicago, Illinois.