Buying a campervan is one of the most exciting parts of vanlife - you get to find your dream van; but the process can be really intimidating. Before actually purchasing a van, there are a few steps you should take to confirm your needs and path forward (How to get started with vanlife?). Once you’re positive that a used, already converted van is the right direction for your needs, there are numerous considerations you should be aware of before paying what could be a substanital amount of money. Our article will walk through these factors - but if you're thinking about buying a used van that isn't yet converted (in order to complete your own DIY build), then this is the article for you to start with.
Why buy a used conversion van instead of building one yourself?
Converting a van yourself can be incredibly rewarding if you have a strong vision, or very particular needs. For instance, if you're a serious mountain biker, and only intend to use the van for short weekend trips during the summer, the type of van you need might be tailored to bike storage, warm weather temperature control, and possibly limited electrical capacity. However, if your needs are relatively general, or your unsure exactly what you'll need - purchasing a van that's already converted might be the best route. The used van market is incredibly popular for reasons beyond - including how accessible it makes vanlife, costs incurred, convenience, and quality.
One of the biggest advantages of buying a pre-converted van is the amount of time it can save. If you're looking to get on the road quickly, the used market is the place for you. For the most sophisticated builds, converting a van from scratch can take several months of full time building. Beyond the physical installation, there's a ton of education, research, planning, purchasing, etc. that's required to get the build up and running.
Cost is another factor to consider. Sure, building out a van yourself can be a more cost effective route in many cases, but it's also easy to overshoot your estimates when building out a van yourself. Even with inctricate planning, it's easy to underestimate the materials, tools, and other equipment that may be unexpected and can quickly add up - not to mention the cost of your time and any mistakes made along the way. Buying a used van that's already converted allows you to lock in your costs for the most part - providing peace of mind surrounding your expenses. It effectively gives you very strong control over how much you spend - most online marketplaces allow you to filter by price - offering transparency into what your options are for a specific budget.
Convenience and skill-sets are additional reasons why you might choose to buy an already-converted van. Not everyone has the time, inclination, tools or skills to tackle a van conversion project. A full van build requires the purchase of tons of new tools, materials, potentially workspaces, and learning new skills across electrical, plumbing and carpentry. It's a steep learning curve - certainly not impossible (and we're here to help!), but intimidating. If you have the money ready to go, and want to avoid the learning pains, purchase of tools you may not use again, or you just aren't motivated to spend months working on a build, then purchasing a pre-converted van can be a more convenient option.
Finally, quality is a major consideration for anyone thinking about vanlife. If you're not confident in your DIY skills or are worried about the quality of your finished product, purchasing a pre-converted van from a reputable company can be a smart choice. A professionally converted van can give you greater peace of mind that everything has been done to a high standard and is safe and reliable for your adventures. Even apart from a professional build, buying another DIY build on the used market will offer you the opportunity to inspect and identify a build that may be stronger in quality than you could do yourself.
Generally, there are definitely advantages to building out a van yourself, but purchasing a used van that has already been converted can be a great option for people who want to hit the road fast, save money & time, and feel confident about the quality of build.
What to think about when evaluating a used conversion van?
When buying a used van, there are quite a few things you should look for. This starts off with a personal inspection of the vehicle. You should generally inspect the exterior, interior and all the mechanics of the vehicle. This includes the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, tires and more. You’ll definitely want to take the vehicle for a test drive, and have a mechanic or third-party inspect it if possible. We walk through the details of inspecting the vehicle generally, along with the right questions to ask here: What to check before purchasing a van to convert? The following sections will help you evaluate your purchase beyond the actual vehicle, to determine if the build and features are worth it.
First, let's talk about layout and design. This is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a campervan, as the layout and design will determine how comfortable and functional the van is for your specific needs. Consider things like the sleeping arrangements, kitchen setup, bathroom facilities (if any), and overall use of space. Some people prefer a more open layout with a convertible bed, while others prefer a separate bedroom area. It's all about what works best for you and your lifestyle. Take a test drive and spend some time inside the van to get a feel for the space and see if it suits your needs. It can’t hurt to ask if the owner would allow you to rent the van for a night or two to simulate the full experience.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the build. If the campervan was built by a previous owner, it's important to inspect the quality of the build. Check for signs of water damage, mold, or poor insulation, which can make the van uncomfortable and costly to repair. Make sure all appliances and systems (e.g. electrical, plumbing) are in good working order. If the campervan was professionally built by a company, research the brand or builder to see what their reputation is like. Look for reviews or ask for recommendations from other campervan owners to see if they have had positive experiences with the brand or builder.
Price is another important consideration. Consider the asking price of the campervan in relation to its age, condition, and features. Research similar models and builds to get an idea of what is reasonable to pay. For instance, if the van you’re considering buying has a shower, be sure to compare pricing to those with a shower as a feature of this sort can substantially impact the pricing. Don't be afraid to negotiate with the seller if you feel the price is too high. Keep in mind that you may need to invest in some upgrades or repairs depending on the condition of the van.
Maintenance records are also important to consider. Ask the seller for maintenance records to see what work has been done on the vehicle in the past. This can give you an idea of how well the vehicle has been cared for and whether any major repairs or maintenance are coming up soon.
In conclusion, buying a used campervan that has already been fully built out can be a great way to start your van life adventure. However, it's important to consider factors like layout and design, condition of the vehicle, quality of the build, price, maintenance records, and reputation of the brand or builder. By doing your research and taking the time to find the right vehicle for your needs, you can enjoy all the benefits of van life without breaking the bank.
What are the risks to look out for when buying a used conversion van?
Buying a used (previously converted) camper van can come with several risks, such as:
Hidden problems: While a visual inspection of the vehicle may reveal some issues, there may be hidden problems that are not immediately apparent, such as electrical or plumbing problems, or issues with the vehicle's structure or mechanical systems. With custom vans, a ton of the handiwork is hidden behind walls - think wiring, plumbing, structural supports / fasteners, insulation and more. All of this will be really difficult to determine it’s condition and implementation - fortunately, we suggest a few signs below that will give clues about a van’s overall quality, and whether there may be hidden issues.
Poor craftsmanship: If the camper van was not professionally converted, there may be problems with the workmanship or quality of materials used. This could result in issues such as leaks, poor insulation, or unstable cabinetry.
Wear and tear: A used camper van may have been subjected to a lot of wear and tear, especially if it was used for extended periods of time or on rough roads. This can result in mechanical or structural issues that may require costly repairs. Be sure to ask about the van’s history and travels before purchasing.
Maintenance issues: Even a well-maintained camper van will eventually require repairs and replacement of components, such as tires, brakes, or the engine. However, a poorly maintained camper van can result in more frequent and costly repairs.
Resale value: A used camper van may have a lower resale value than a new vehicle, especially if it has been heavily customized or has a lot of mileage. This can make it more difficult to recoup your investment if you decide to sell the vehicle later. Think about whether resale value is important to you, and what your timeline to sell might be.
To minimize these risks, it's important to have the camper van inspected by a professional mechanic and craftsman if possible to carefully examine the workmanship and materials used in the conversion. You should also ask the seller for maintenance records and any documentation related to the conversion process (such as receipts or materials list). Finally, consider purchasing an extended warranty or purchasing from a reputable dealer to provide some added protection in case of unexpected repairs or issues.
What to inspect when purchasing a used campervan?
Overall condition: When checking the overall condition of the vehicle, look for any signs of wear and tear, including scratches, dents, or rust. These could indicate that the vehicle has been poorly maintained or may require costly repairs. Check the exterior of the vehicle for any leaks, especially around windows, doors, and the roof. If you notice any water stains or warped walls on the interior of the vehicle, this could be a sign of water damage.
Mechanical condition: It's important to have a professional mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension of the vehicle. They can identify any potential issues or hidden problems that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye. Make sure all mechanical systems are functioning properly and that the vehicle is roadworthy. Keep in mind we go more in detail on how to evaluate the vehicle itself in this article.
Electrical system: Test all of the electrical systems in the van or RV, including the lights, heating and cooling, and appliances. Make sure everything is working properly and that the electrical system is not overloaded. This is especially important if you plan to use the vehicle for long trips or extended periods of time. Generally, you should map out / calculate your electrical needs vs. the capacity of the van in question. If it won’t meet your needs, remember to factor the necessary upgrades (ex. batteries) into your overall cost. If you have a multimeter, test various parts of the van’s electrical to ensure everything is functioning at the expected level. This means testing the batteries, fuse box, and solar panels. In particular check each for signs of damage - for example, fuses on the box may look burnt, or there could be cracks on the solar panels. Be sure all connections are fully sealed. Check any monitors available to ensure electrical system is in good health in daylight - you want to see that the system can handle load, and successfully recharge. In terms of re-charging, you should test the alternator if there is one, along with the shore power hookup.
Plumbing system: Check the plumbing system for leaks, damage, and proper functioning. Run the faucets and check the water pressure. Test the toilet and holding tank, and check for any signs of leaks or damage. Make sure the water pump and water heater are functioning properly by using both hot and cold water. Be sure to ask the seller to demonstrate filling and draining the tank, and be diligent about checking all accessible pipes for leaks. Test the gray water tank to ensure it drains / deposits successfully, and there are no leaks or strange smells.
Heating and cooling system: Test the heating and cooling system to make sure it's working properly. If the custom van or RV has air conditioning, make sure it's cooling the entire vehicle evenly. If there is a gas or diesel heater, make sure it's heating the entire vehicle evenly. These heaters are quite sensitive and can be risky if set up incorrectly. It’s worth climbing under the vehicle to ensure that all DIY gas lines are wrapped in heat shield where necessary under the vehicle.
Check for interior damage: Look for any evidence of leaks around the windows, fans, or doors. If possible, evaluate the van in both sunny and rainy conditions to see the full picture.
Behind the walls: You likely won't be able to actually check behind the walls, but this is where some of the biggest risks may lie. Be sure to ask about the types of insulation used, as this can be a critical component to be comfortable with depending on your region. Ask if there is anything else to be aware of behind the walls specific to the build you're looking at.
Furniture and bed: Attempt to use all of the features to make sure all function correctly. This means that if there is a convertible bed, be sure to manually shift it between bed and couch mode to make sure it’s reasonable to do, and works efficiently to your liking.
Appliances: Check all of the appliances, such as the refrigerator, stove, oven, and microwave. Make sure they're in good working order and that there are no leaks or damage. If the vehicle has a generator, test it to make sure it's working properly.
Propane system: If the custom van or RV uses propane for heating or cooking, consider having the propane system inspected by a professional. Make sure the tanks are in good condition and that there are no leaks. Propane leaks can be very dangerous, so it's important to make sure the system is functioning properly. Many individuals use soap to test for leaks, but again this is a risk of buying a used camper van.
Storage and organization: Make sure there is enough storage space in the RV or conversion van to accommodate your needs. Check the cabinets and drawers to make sure they're in good condition and functioning properly. If you plan to live in the vehicle for an extended period of time, having enough storage space is crucial.
Tires: Check the tires for signs of wear and tear, and make sure they're the proper size and type for the vehicle. Make sure the tires are properly inflated and in good condition. Bald or damaged tires can be dangerous and may need to be replaced.
Roadworthiness: Make sure the vehicle is roadworthy and that it meets all safety requirements. Check the brakes, suspension, steering, and exhaust system. Make sure the vehicle has a current safety inspection and registration.
Upgrades needed: Think about whether there are any improvements or upgrades that you'd want to make. For instance, do you need additional appliances, or need to adjust any of the features? Be sure to factor these potential changes into the cost.
Taking the time to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before you buy can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run and at the very least will benefit you by helping you learn how to function every inch of the van.
How to know if a used campervan isn’t built well?
There are several indications that a used campervan may not be constructed well. While some of these may be minor inconveniences, they could be indicative of poor craftsmanship beyond, in more serious places that you can’t access to inspect.
Uneven surfaces: If you notice that the camper van's surfaces, such as countertops or floors, are uneven or have gaps, it may be an indication of poor craftsmanship.
Poorly fitting components: Look for components, such as cabinets or doors, that do not fit well or are not aligned properly. This can indicate that they were poorly installed or that the camper van was not constructed with precision.
Water damage: Check for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration or soft spots on the floors or walls. This can be an indication of leaks or poor insulation, which can cause further damage over time.
Inadequate insulation: A poorly constructed camper van may have inadequate insulation, which can result in temperature fluctuations, uncomfortable living conditions, and higher heating or cooling costs.
Shoddy electrical work: Look for any signs of shoddy electrical work, such as exposed wires or poorly placed outlets. Electrical problems can be dangerous and can result in fires or other hazards.
Unstable or poorly secured components: Check for any components that are unstable or poorly secured, such as cabinets that wobble or doors that do not latch properly. These components can become safety hazards when the vehicle is in motion.
Poor overall condition: If the camper van looks poorly maintained or is in poor overall condition, it may be an indication that the conversion work was also done poorly.
If you notice any of these indications, it may be wise to consider another campervan or to have a professional inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. A poorly constructed campervan can be unsafe, uncomfortable, and expensive to repair
Should I buy a used professionally converted van, or a DIY custom van?
When it comes to buying a used campervan, there are a few options to consider. One is buying a used DIY campervan that someone built themselves, and the other is buying a used campervan that was professionally built by a company.
Buying a used DIY campervan can be a great option if you're looking to save some money and want the ability to customize the vehicle to your specific needs. With a DIY campervan, you have the freedom to more easily adjust the layout and the materials yourself, which can be really desirable.
However, there are some downsides to buying a used DIY campervan as well. For one, the quality of the workmanship can vary greatly depending on the skill level of the person who built it. You could end up with a camper van that has safety hazards or poor insulation, which can make it uncomfortable and costly to fix. Additionally, DIY campervans may not have as high of a resale value as professionally built ones, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to sell it in the future.
On the other hand, buying a used professionally built campervan can be a good option if you're willing to spend a bit more money for higher quality workmanship and materials. Professionally built campervans often come with warranties, which can give you added peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. Plus, they tend to have a higher resale value since they are often more well-known and trusted in the market.
The downside to buying a used professionally built campervan is that it can be more expensive than a DIY one. You also may not have as much freedom to customize the vehicle exactly how you want it, as many companies do not build their vans in a modular or accessible style.
Ultimately, whether you choose a used DIY campervan or a professionally built one will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and willingness to take on the responsibility of building and maintaining the vehicle. It's important to do your research and inspect any potential campervans carefully to make sure you're getting a safe and comfortable vehicle that will meet your needs.
What is needed in terms of paperwork when buying a used custom van?
When it comes to paperwork for buying a used campervan, there are several important things to keep in mind.
First off, you'll want to make sure the seller has the title and registration in their name, and that everything is up-to-date. You don't want to end up buying a vehicle with a bunch of outstanding debts or liens on it, so double-check that everything is in order. Also, make sure the VIN number on the vehicle matches the one on the title.
Next up is insurance. You'll need to get insurance for your campervan before you can take it out on the road. Depending on your insurance company, you may be able to get specialized RV insurance that provides additional coverage for your campervan. Insuring a van conversion: what should I consider?
Another consideration is smog and emissions. Depending on where you live, you may need to have your campervan inspected to make sure it's compliant with local emissions standards. Check with your local DMV to see what the requirements are.
If you want to get a better idea of the vehicle's history, consider purchasing a vehicle history report. These reports can provide information on previous accidents, repairs, and maintenance, which can help you make a more informed decision.
When you're ready to make the purchase, make sure you get a bill of sale from the seller. This document should include information about the sale price, vehicle information, and signatures from both the buyer and seller. It serves as proof of ownership and can be used to transfer the title and registration.
Also, ask the seller if they have any service records for the campervan. These records can provide valuable information about the vehicle's maintenance history and any repairs that have been made.
If the campervan is still under warranty, make sure you get a copy of the warranty agreement from the seller. Verify the terms and conditions of the warranty and make sure you understand what is covered and what is not.
Finally, if you're financing your purchase, make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your loan. Get a copy of the loan agreement and verify the interest rate, payment schedule, and any fees or penalties associated with the loan.
Overall, taking the time to carefully review and understand all of the paperwork associated with your purchase is important. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from professionals if you're unsure about anything. A little extra effort upfront can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
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