Buy or sell an RV on a classifieds platform? Be careful!

Buy or sell an RV on a classifieds platform? Be careful!

Do you intend to buy or sell an RV on a classified ads platform? Be careful. Learn to recognize possible signs of fraud.

Here is a scenario from a buyer’s point of view, based on real-life facts. You notice, on Marketplace, Kijiji or LesPAC, a caravan that seems interesting. There are photos of it taken right in the owner's parking lot.

As the caravan is a few driving hours away, you make an appointment to go and see it, but then, before you even get there, the advertiser informs you that there are several people interested and that one even has an offer above asking price. He suggests (not to say, puts pressure on you) to pay a deposit to reserve the unit

You don't feel too comfortable, but it's really the model you want and you're thinking about the next vacation that's coming up and you really want to have a new RV.  So, you cave. After all, you've seen the seller's driver's license and registration.

Once there: surprise! Where did the RV go? 

In fact, the person who lives at this address – who is in fact the real owner of the RV – is not at his first visit from interested buyers. Several other people fell into the trap!

How is this possible? Because, quite simply, there was identity theft. The real owner's information was used to fool you. The caravan really exists, but it is not for sale.

The same problem can happen to you if you sell your RV. The person who is interested to buy it can use someone else's identity.

Our advice for the buyers:

• Don't be easily influenced if someone wants to put pressure on you. Especially when we're talking about thousands of dollars.
• Never give money for something you haven’t seen with your own eyes.
• Have the vehicle inspected before purchasing. Super important.

Even if the market sometimes seems more limited in terms of the vehicle you want and the price you are willing to pay, dealing with a recreational vehicle dealer is always the wisest choice.