Buying any motorhome represents a more significant investment than buying a runabout car. Buying a motorhome in the distinguished class and luxury of an Auto-Sleeper is likely to be a still bigger investment.
So, how might you go about financing your Auto-Sleeper purchase? The good news is that there should be a finance solution that most suits you.
Savings
If it has long been your dream to own a motorhome, you might have been saving over the years for the tidy sum likely to be required. If you have savings set aside, this could be a straightforward way to finance your motorhome. Using your own funds eliminates the need for a loan and avoids interest charges. However, ensure that you still have an emergency fund after the purchase.
Equity release
For homeowners who have reached the age of 55 or over, the dreams they nurtured in owning a motorhome might be realised through equity release.
Typically, this involves a so-called lifetime mortgage on the home that is owned, so that you have the cash released through its equity but make no repayments on the loan until the property is sold, you go into long-term care or you die.
Auto-Sleeper finance
Auto-Sleeper finance, on the other hand, helps you avoid having to do anything quite as drastic as blowing your savings or unlocking the equity in your home in order to purchase a motorhome.
A reputable Auto-Sleeper dealer is almost certain to be able to offer a range of finance options – and, to do so, must be registered with and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Those options might include:
- a personal loan – for the whole or just part of the purchase of your Auto-Sleeper – with repayment terms spread over several years;
- hire purchase – which typically involves you paying an initial deposit of around 10% of the purchase price – and equal monthly payments until the final balance is cleared; or
- Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) – the widely popular method of car finance which has also been extended to the purchase of motorhomes and which leaves you the option of returning the vehicle at the end of the contract agreement instead of paying the final “balloon” instalment to complete the purchase.
As with any finance credit agreement, of course, the terms of your Auto-Sleeper finance is going to depend on your creditworthiness – the healthier your credit score, the more favourable the rate of interest you are likely to be offered and the better your chances of securing the credit you need.
Motorhome finance calculator
You can use our online motorhome finance calculator here that will help you decide how much you need to borrow, the repayment terms and any other conditions that may be attached to your Auto-Sleeper finance deal.
Specialist Auto-Sleeper dealers – such as ourselves at Derby Motorhomes – are likely to have close working relationships with several major banks, brokers and financial institutions, offering you a wide choice of different types of finance to suit your particular needs and circumstances.
What else do I need to consider when financing a motorhome?
- Determine and stick to your budget: The first step in financing a motorhome is establishing a realistic budget. Consider not only the purchase price but also additional costs like insurance, maintenance, and storage. Knowing your financial limits will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.
- Credit Score. If you are going down the finance route, then remember that your credit score plays a crucial role in securing favourable financing terms. Before applying for a loan, check your credit report and score. A higher credit score increases your chances of qualifying for more attractive interest rates.
- Insurance considerations: Remember to factor in insurance costs when budgeting for your motorhome. Insurance requirements may vary, so obtain quotes from different providers to find the most appropriate for your needs.
Financing a motorhome in the UK involves careful consideration of your budget, financing options, and future plans. By researching thoroughly, comparing offers, and understanding the terms, you can embark on your motorhome journey with confidence. Whether you choose a traditional loan, dealer financing, or another option, the key is to find the motorhome finance solution that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.
