Motorhomes, or RVs, bring out the explorer in people by providing mobility and comfort. The annual $140 billion RV industry in the US economy shows its growing acceptance. However, the setbacks of living in a motorhome might be more than what you expect from the fancy documentaries on YouTube.
As you move about in the RV, the weather will not always be friendly, and depreciation will decrease its resale value. In addition, you will have to deal with city navigation if it is a large vehicle and parking spots to settle down. The nomadic life has disadvantages, but it is also fun in ways that a fixed home cannot provide.
Consider a few things before picking a motorhome over a brick-and-mortar house. They will shape your decision and lay the groundwork as you prepare for the life ahead.
Things You Must Know Before Going Mobile with a Motorhome
These recreational vehicles are no longer holiday treats where you can settle down or go camping. Instead, they have become permanent residences for people who prefer being mobile. This makes it perfect for those who prefer to live in the van, travel to remote places, connect to the internet, and indulge in online activities on-the-go, such as playing thrilling table games online. Such nomadic lifestyle truly becomes more interesting with conveniences like WiFi and electronics, as they let you access games that you can entertain yourself with for days, even when the motorhome life gets boring.
We’ve identified a few things worth noting if you plan on selling your house to get a motorhome. They include the following:
Life With Kids is Not Comfortable
How much can the small space take? You can optimize your storage solutions, but body mass remains the same. Your family will take up space inside the vehicle.
The best solution would be to get a bigger one, which costs money. Also, there won’t be enough space for kids to play.
RV parks do not have social amenities for kids. Hence, you’ll starve them of optimal infrastructure by living in a motorhome.
Another thing with kids is education. Changing schools often is not good for their development.
Rent a Home Base
A home base is essential if you plan to reside in an RV permanently. You can set one up using the methods below:
- Long-term renting on a campsite or RV park
- Purchase a deeded RV lot or zoned land
Setting up a home base gives you permanent residence. It is also ideal for security, especially in a not-so-friendly town or city.
You can ditch purchasing and rent as you go. However, the cost can be higher than for those who pay for extended periods.
A rented or purchased home base might not be necessary for locations where you can find cheap or free parking. Even so, research the area before you arrive in your motorhome.
Get Basic Repair Skills
The depreciation rate for a motorhome is around 10% to 15% in the first year and below 30% for the first three years. However, the rate will be higher if you don’t have basic repair skills.
Get basic training on changing parts, checking the plumbing, replacing batteries, checking the storage tank, etc. Even window latches will need repairs.
The waitlist at a service center may rob you of essential time. Also, the cost of repairs will quickly increase if you cannot handle a few things on your own.
If it means going for basic training, do it. The last thing you want is to be stranded in an unpleasant location because of a minor fault. Get used to the spanners, screwdrivers, pliers, and other essential hand tools.
Consider Electricity
Most motorhomes will have in-built generators upon purchase. However, they are often gas-powered, meaning they’ll require refills occasionally. They can draw from the RV’s tank or have a separate tank.
You won’t have the luxury of quiet electricity with gas-powered generators. Other ways you can get power include:
- Solar systems
- Outdoor rechargeable power systems
There are a lot of camping power solutions. Solar systems can have panels on the roof with integrations into the RV’s electrical systems. However, they are often used as secondary power sources.
Rechargeable power stations are also great for minor uses. They can get the lights on, power smartphones, laptops, etc. However, they don’t fare well with enormous power demands like heaters and freezers.
Carefully select which power solution suits you. Have a backup for whatever you decide.
Offgrid is a Better Choice if You are Not a Traveler
Buying a motorhome is one of many ways out if you find bustling city life unattractive. Off-grid living provides a permanent address while keeping you away from the intense city life. It is a viable alternative to living in a motorhome.
Storage on RVs is often smaller than in a brick-and-mortar house. Hence, you should get interim storage before settling into motorhome life. You can always retrieve your belongings whenever you are in town or have them shipped to your location.
One final thing is to consider the weather rating for the coaches. An all-weather coach is the best choice to survive the temperature differences as you move about. Nonetheless, ensure you consider the potential locations you will be in.
