It was about seven years ago that we decided we were going to take a big RV trip after retirement. For years we researched, shopped, toured manufacturers, and finally decided that the Grand Design Reflection 31MB was the right choice for us. We loved the open floor plan with so many windows, which made the feel more “homey” and less claustrophobic, even though it's only 36 feet. We also thought this model would lend well to educating and working on the road. Here is the story of our purchase of “Rivy,” our Grand Design Fifth Wheel Reflection 31MB.
Our Experience When COVID hit, the RV market went crazy and the price of new 31MBs went up 15-20 grand, which was an easy “no go” for us. We decided to buy used and hope for the best. For weeks, it seemed like nothing was available. Then one day, five listed in the same week! Ultimately, the sudden abundance helped us to get a better deal and also gave us multiple options to choose the one that felt like the best fit for us. We’d watched the market and Grand Design Facebook groups for years. We knew COVID changed the quality of rigs coming out of Elkhart, Indiana. We ended up finding a 31MB manufactured in early 2020 (before shut downs). The previous owners had taken impeccable care of the rig and had made improvements that we would have likely made. We ended up with a like-new rig with a Reese Goose Box hitch, rear backup cameras, tire pressure monitoring system, water filter, and lots of extra goodies to help keep us and the RV safe and comfortable. What We Learned In this market, buying used was the best option. But buying blind is never a good idea! We did virtual tours of three 31MBs, plus saw one rig at a dealership before making our decision. Building a relationship with the seller was important. There were two sellers who gave tips during the tour and seemed very educated about maintenance and use, so we could tell that their rigs had been kept in good condition. Even so, we would not have bought without a full inspection from NRVIA (National RV Inspectors Association). It was easy to find a reputable inspector through their website search option. After setting an agreed upon time, he did a full inspection and within 24 hours, provided a 40 page report, complete with stats, photos, and recommendations for repairs or improvements. The Best Sellers
The purchase of our 31 MB could not have gone more smoothly. The seller was easy to work with, and the inspector placed the rig at the top 10% of new and used rigs that he had inspected. Upon arrival for pickup, the seller spent several hours walking us through everything, including tutorials for use of electric, gas, and water. He answered all our questions, sent us detailed checklists for set up and departure, and even provided his phone number, suggesting we call any time we had questions. Purchasing an RV can be very stressful. We feel like we took our time, did our research, spent the extra money on a certified inspector, and came out with a fully functioning, well maintained “home” for a reasonable price and with added bonuses to help us on our journey. The perfect fit! We're so grateful for getting to meet and work with such wonderful people in the purchase of our RV. It was a great introduction to how nice the RV population is.
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