How Much Do Used Teardrop Trailers Cost?
The decision always comes down to one of two options when making a large purchase, such as a teardrop trailer.
Do we buy brand new, or do we buy used?
We do this with many purchases like cars, so why should our teardrop be any different? Teardrop camper costs vary greatly, depending on this factor and a few other elements. New versus used, dealership versus small business manufacturer, and aluminum versus wood. The brand, materials used, amenities added, experience of the builder, type of roof, insulation, and age of the teardrop will always have a large effect on how much you will pay for that teardrop camper.
Once we break each of these elements down to the core, you will fully appreciate why a teardrop trailer costs what it does.
Cost of Doing Business
To answer the question about a used teardrop price tag, we need to give you some context. A brand-new teardrop trailer (in this market) can cost upwards of $10,000- $35,000. That seems like a lot until you understand exactly how well teardrop campers hold their value. Please check out our article on “Do teardrop trailers hold their value?”. Once you realize just how much a brand new one costs, you might start thinking that a used unit may be the way to go.
The average used teardrop camper is usually about $2,000 to $6,000. Why such a large range, you might ask? Well, it depends on factors like the ones listed above. The price will differ as a direct result of the seller’s needs. If someone understands the worth of what they have and the value of the teardrop, then you may pay the higher end. If someone is upgrading to a larger unit and is able to sell at a bargain, then you may reap the rewards of that savings.
Breaking down the limiting factors may help… What to look for in a teardrop camper
Dealership Pricing Versus Private Sale
We all know that dealerships mark up their unit prices. This is how they make their cut as being part of the transaction between manufacturer and buyer.
You can expect this profit margin to be at least $10,000 for their “trouble”. Though typical markup ranges from 20% to 40%. Now in a private party sale, the seller is likely to research and see what their teardrop is valued out. You are very unlikely to see a markup unless there is more demand than supply in the teardrop market or the seller has done aftermarket additions which have increased the value of the camper. Even then, there is more wiggle room for bargaining during a private sale.
Additions that will increase the value of a teardrop may include a seamless roof (which decreases potential leaks), electronic options such as Bluetooth and TV/DVD additions that weren’t basic in the unit, the size of the teardrop itself, roof racks, spare tire option, and upgraded tires and storage. Just to name a few.
Building Materials Used in Production
The type of materials that the designer and manufacturer used in creating the teardrop camper. Steel frames are cheaper than aluminum, while aluminum is still more expensive than wood framing. You will be paying for the outstanding value that these units maintain, and this includes the perfection in which they are built. Is there insulation in the roof, walls, and flooring? That will create a cost benefit to the seller, because that means you will be able to use the teardrop year-round.
Sparingly Used
All sellers will have differed in their use of the teardrop. Some owners aren’t able to get away from daily life or travel as much as others. This will mean that your “used” teardrop may be practically brand new. As they maintain amazing value, the camper may be in pristine condition and therefore you won’t have to make any maintenance or upgrades right away. These savings alone will be worth the cost you are paying for the unit itself. Saving money already…
By now, I’m sure you can see the upsides to buying a teardrop trailer used. Do your research, find the one you want, and work with the seller to see if the cost is truly worth it to you and them. Keep in mind that the sentimentality price is worth just as much as the purchase price to the seller. Just as it will be with you one day, from all the memories made along the way.
