Is this trailer a good buy?

Ok, I've been in the market to buy a TT since I sold my "weekend car" but am on a budget. I'm mechanically inclined and don't have a problem working on a project. The Air Force is moving us in a few months and I will be on a temporary assignment for about 6 months after the move and to put some extra money in my pocket, I've even considered living in a trailer for a few months. Hell, I'll live in a tent if I can make an extra $700 a month (house downpayment more than likely in 12 months).

With that being said, I don't want a complete POS. Most of the sub 20 foot TT that are <7-8 years old are $5K+, which honestly isnt a bad deal, but I'd like to spend less. I found a 2007 Cikira 16cc, 16 foot TT, sleeps 4 for a decent price a few hours away.

It does have some dings and looks like the previous owner caulked every crease on the thing and wasnt too concerned about trying to make it look presentable. An afternoon, a razor blade, and new caulk would clean it up.

It also had a tank leak and the floor was pulled out. Then new plywood was laid down and leak repaired so it does need a new linoleum or laminant floor (which I can install, no problem).

On the front corner it either looks like the owner maybe cranked it too hard and had a the truck bumper impact the corner and he just goobed a bunch of puddy on there. Probably should have taken some fiberglass so it wouldnt look so ghetto.

Anyway, a month ago, the place was asking $4K. Now they are asking $3K. I'm tempted to offer them $2500. I've done some searching online and this particular model seems to range between $7K and $10K in good shape.

Those of you in the know, owners, etc, what are your opinions on this? It comes with no warranty. I've asked the dealership to provide a quote from their mechanic on any repairs needed. Do I want them to do the repairs? Nope, but I figure if they think I may be interested in having them do it, they would be more apt to be honest on whats busted on the thing.

Would you pay $2500 or even $3K if they arent willing to budge? Thanks guys!

 

I've looked at similar units, they all seem pretty comparable. By your description and pics I would be willing to say the 2500-3000 would be a fair investment since your willing/able to do the remaining repairs/cleanup needed.

These trailers in this size are usually double the asking price and tow fairly easy.

Good luck, and don't wait too long on purchasing as the holidays are over and people will be starting to look also.

 

No way. i wont pay anything more than $2k. My TT cost me $3k and it required no fixing anywhere.

 

I'd be curious to know what prompted the previous owner to feel the need to caulk the shit out of it. I wonder if he was having water infiltration issues. If that was the case, I wouldn't touch it. Once that particle board crap gets wet, it can deteriorate quickly.

 

I agree with Pugga. I would be a little leary on why there is so much caulk work put into it. The easiest way to find out is to go to the TT when its raining and see if there is any leaks.
$2500 is a great starting point.

 

Looks like water damage and the new floor could be in there and rot with mold all over.
No way I would do it.

 

A lot of trailers end up leaking way sooner than they should have any issues. I've seen plenty of people proactively culk. Could just be that the previous owner was very sloppy and not necessarily indicative of previous leaks. With that being said I'd certainly check for other signs of leaking.

A lot of trailers are just poorly made anymore. I've got a 44' park model trailer. It's only a 2008 and has already needed a roof replacement due to leaking. Still waiting to see on what reimbursement the company is going to provide.

 

Nope!!! Better deals are out there. Keep looking

 

Ryan, not sure of your budget, my family just purchased a Salem Cruise Lite 195BH... Brand new 2013 model cost us $8000 dollars, and it isn't a pop up!
http://www.forestriverinc.com/Trave...t.aspx?page=floorplandetails&floorplanid=4863

It comes out to about $100 per month, and you have the piece of mind KNOWING that you have it from the factory. If you are new to RV'ing, the biggest thing to remember is water is the enemy. Keeping water out takes rather involved PM and constant upkeep. Failure to do that can mean bad news and costly repairs. Look for any discoloration, get up on the roof and look, look at all seams and caulking. Hope this helps!

 

That's not a bad little trailer for 3K but it looks like the last owner dabbed calking on instead of doing it right. All of that trim needs to come off wood rot in a camper is a nightmare. There is no such a thing as a camper that does not leak after a few years unless you really keep after it.

 

Wow, that does look nice. Thanks for the lead, still looking so ill have to find a local dealer to see one in person.

 

Walk away. For that money you can build your own.