Whether you’ve decided to upgrade to something new, downsize or even step away from the lifestyle altogether, when you find yourself thinking about selling your motorhome one of the most important things to consider is depreciation. Understanding how and why motorhomes lose value over time, and taking steps to deal with some of those factors, could make a difference in what you walk away with.

This edition of our blog presents a guide to depreciation. We’ll explore the main causes of depreciation, how much value you can expect to lose over the years, what you can do to retain value and why choosing the right buyer matters - especially if you’re thinking “How can I sell my motorhome quickly and easily?”

 

What causes motorhome depreciation?

Like any vehicle, new motorhomes begin to shed value when they leave the forecourt. This is called depreciation and, however, the rate of depreciation can vary depending on several contributing factors.

 

• Age and mileage: The older a motorhome is, then the more miles it will have ‘on the clock’ and the more value it will typically lose. Similar to cars, motorhomes are bound to experience wear and tear with age and usage. However, because motorhomes often sit idle for extended periods, it's not just mileage that counts. How well the vehicle has been maintained in between trips also plays a key role.
• Brand and build quality: Not all motorhomes are created equal. Premium brands tend to depreciate at a slower rate due to superior craftsmanship and their reputation for reliability. On the other hand, entry-level models may lose their value more quickly, especially if they're mass-produced and use lower-grade materials.
• Model popularity and market trends: Trends in the leisure vehicle industry change over time. What was once the most sought-after layout or had the most desirable specifications may no longer be in quite as much demand. The resale market can fluctuate based on the general preferences of consumers and the availability of newer features in upcoming models.
• Condition: A well-maintained motorhome with a full service history and minimal cosmetic damage (ie. bumps, marks or scratches) will always achieve a better price. Buyers look for evidence of regular servicing, a clean MOT record, and interior care. Dents, leaks, rust, or worn upholstery can all erode value.
• Seasonal demand: Unsurprisingly, used motorhome prices can fluctuate based on the time of year they are up for sale. Spring and early summer typically bring stronger resale values, as more people look to buy before peak travel season. Trying to sell your motorhome in autumn or winter might mean having to settle for a lower price.

 

How much value does a Motorhome lose over time?

Although it is not an ‘exact science’, as a general rule a brand new motorhome will lose approximately 20% of its value when it’s driven away from the dealer. Over the first three years, that figure could even climb to 35–50% (depending on how the vehicle has been used and how well it has been maintained). By the fifth year after initial purchase, motorhomes may be worth around 60% of their original price.

Of course, these are estimates. A low-mileage motorhome from one of the top brands that has been kept in close to pristine condition could outperform these figures. An older or relatively poorly maintained model might lose value more quickly. It’s also worth noting that certain extras (eg. solar panels, upgraded heating or modern infotainment systems) can help to preserve motorhome value, especially if these features are in high demand at resale.

How to maximise the value of your Motorhome before you sell

If you're thinking “I want to sell my motorhome, but I don’t want to give it away,” there are a few strategies that can help ensure you get the best price possible.

• Maintenance: Don’t wait until a buyer has spotted a problem. Be proactive and get your motorhome professionally serviced, and address any mechanical or electrical faults. Make sure the MOT is up to date and valid for at least the next several months. A motorhome that’s ‘ready to roll’ will always be more appealing to a buyer.
• Interior refresh: First impressions count. Clean the interior of your motorhome thoroughly, declutter and consider minor upgrades such as new cushion covers or refreshed curtains. If the upholstery is stained or damaged, invest in a modest refurbishment if you can as this could pay off when it comes to the resale price.
• Documentation: Gather your logbook (V5C), the vehicle’s full service history, receipts for work done, and the appliance manuals. Buyers place significant trust in sellers who can prove diligent maintenance and organised ownership.
• Timing: Aim to sell in spring or early summer, when demand is high and buyers are eager to hit the road. Listing a motorhome in January will likely attract fewer serious buyers, and therefore lower offers.
• Accurate valuation: Don't rely solely on generic trade-in calculators. The motorhome depreciation curve isn’t always linear, and so specifics like layout, brand and optional extras can greatly influence resale value. It’s a good idea to get a no-obligation quote from a reputable buyer - Continental. If you’re ready to sell, we offer an easy and professional way to do so, with no haggling and instant valuations available online.

 

Why sell to Continental?

When the time comes to sell your motorhome, choosing the right buyer can mean the difference between a frustrating experience and a stress-free transaction. Continental Caravans makes the process quick, friendly and transparent.

 

• We buy any Motorhome: Whether you have a luxury A-class, a compact and nimble campervan or a well-used family motorhome, Continental will consider it. Our team assesses each vehicle individually, takes into account age, condition, mileage and demand, and then offers a fair, competitive price.
• No-obligation valuations: You can get a fast quote through our website with no pressure to commit. It’s the ideal way to get a feel for what your vehicle is worth in today’s market, especially if you’re on the fence about selling.
• Nationwide collection: No matter where you’re based in the UK, we can come to you. If you accept our offer, we’ll do our best to collect your motorhome at a time that suits you, saving you the hassle of arranging transport.
• Quick payment: Once a sale is agreed, payment is typically made on the same day, often even before the motorhome has left your drive. This level of efficiency is especially helpful for those customers who want to free up funds quickly for their next purchasem adventure or major life change.
• Trusted, family-run business: With decades of experience and a reputation for integrity, Continental is a name many sellers trust. Our team prioritises honesty and customer service, ensuring you feel confident and satisfied every step of the way.

 

Whether you’ve travelled the UK coast to coast or just enjoyed the occasional escape to the countryside, your motorhome has served you well. When it’s time to move it on, understanding motorhome depreciation is key. Working with a reputable buyer like Continental ensures you get a fair deal and exceptional service, with none of the headaches often associated with private sales. Get your quote today from Continental.