Deciding between a brand new motorhome and a used one is one of the biggest choices you’ll make on the road to freedom. Do you want the exact spec, factory warranty and the smell of new upholstery? Or would you rather save money, avoid the steepest depreciation and get out touring today?
This guide cuts through the noise and gives you a practical, no-nonsense roadmap so you can choose the motorhome that actually fits your life (and your budget).
The Headline Factors (TL;DR)
- Cost & depreciation: New costs more up-front and carries VAT; used is cheaper and avoids the steepest early depreciation.
- Customisation & tech: New means you can choose exact options and latest tech; used means you may get accessories already fitted.
- Warranty & support: New usually includes full manufacturer warranty; used may have dealer warranty or limited manufacturer cover.
- Risk: Used vehicles can hide water ingress or wear; get a habitation/damp check.
Buying a Motorhome in the UK: Money Matters (VAT, Depreciation and Real Cost)
If you buy a brand new motorhome you’ll usually pay the standard UK VAT rate, that’s currently 20% on most goods and vehicles. This VAT adds materially to the headline price. Factor that into any ‘new vs used’ comparison.
Depreciation matters. Motorhomes do not always fall off a cliff like some cars, but they still lose significant value in the early years. Depreciation often occurs at around 10-15% per year and roughly 40-45% after around four years for typical models. That means buying used can avoid the steepest part of that curve and give you better value.
Bottom line: if your priority is lower monthly cost and lower short-term financial loss, used is the smarter financial choice. If you’ll keep the vehicle many years and value custom spec and warranty, going for new makes sense.
The Case for Buying a Brand new Motorhome
Why people choose a brand new motorhome:
- Allows for the exact spec you want – layout, fabrics, factory-fitted options (levelling, air-con, tow bar, alloy wheels).
- Full manufacturer warranty and latest chassis/tech – peace of mind for the first few years.
- No previous wear & tear or unknown history – everything is fresh and you’re the first owner.
- Finance & factory ordering – dealers like Elite Motorhomes can help you get a tailored new build or choose in-stock new models.
Watchouts: higher price (remember VAT), possible long wait for factory-built options and you may be the one sorting-out early shakedown issues in the first months of ownership.
The Case for Buying a Used Motorhome
Why buying used motorhomes often wins for first-time buyers and those on a budget:
- Lower purchase price and no extra VAT on second-hand sales (unless VAT-registered trade rules apply).
- Accessories and upgrades already fitted – the previous owner may have added solar, lithium batteries, levelling systems or a tow bar.
- Immediate availability – no factory wait, so you can start touring sooner (unless you’re not getting it custom spec)
- Better short-term value retention – the bulk of depreciation has already happened.
Risks to manage: water ingress and hidden habitation faults are the classic second-hand headaches. A professional damp/habitation check and a full mechanical inspection are essential. Look under floors, test appliances, check ceilings and confirm service history.
These are all services Elite Motorhomes offers professionally, so feel free to get in touch and we can handle all checks for you. With our used motorhomes for sale, all these checks have been completed to ensure each motorhome is sale ready in top condition.
Quick comparison table
| Factor | Brand New Motorhome | Buying a Used Motorhome |
| Upfront cost | High (includes VAT) | Lower (usually VAT-free) |
| Depreciation | Steeper in first years | Slower; most drop already happened |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer cover | Possibly dealer warranty or limited manufacturer cover |
| Specification | You choose factory options | May already include popular upgrades |
| Risk | Lower mechanical unknowns | Risk of hidden habitation/ water issues – get checks. |
| Availability | May require waiting | Often immediate |
How to Choose Between New or Used – Step-by-Step for Your Situation
- Decide your budget (purchase + running costs). Don’t forget insurance, servicing, habitation checks and accessories.
- Decide how you’ll use it. Long touring and heavy mileage can justify a higher-spec chassis (e.g., Mercedes vs Fiat debate) – driving time vs living time matters.
- Make a must-have list vs nice-to-have list. If the things on your must-have list are factory-only options, new may be the only way.
- Inspect, inspect, inspect. For used vehicles get a habitation check, damp check and a full engine/chassis inspection. Independent inspectors are worth the fee.
Best Motorhomes to buy Used – a Practical Note
There’s no single “best” used model, condition, service history and how the previous owner used and stored the motorhome matter more than the badge. That said, reputable mainstream brands such as Auto-Trail, Bailey, Chausson, Sunlight and Dethleffs are commonly sought after and widely available on the used market.
So, Which one Should You Buy?
Short answer: If cash is king and you want the lowest cost-to-start and better short-term value, buy used.
If perfect spec, the latest tech and full factory warranty are your priorities, and you’re prepared to pay extra – go new.
Either way, use professional checks, compare like-for-like and buy from a reputable dealer like Elite Motorhomes if you want aftersales support, finance and part-exchange options.
Ready to find your ideal motorhome? Browse our full range of new and used models online, or contact us today to speak with our friendly team. We’ll be happy to answer your questions, arrange a viewing or guide you towards the perfect motorhome for your next adventure.
