Caravan chic at auction

Forget an all-inclusive to the Maldives, yes it is official - caravanning is the chic way to holiday this year. With the likes of Jamie Oliver, Kylie Minogue and car enthusiast Jay Kay backing the latest trend, caravanning and motorhoming are now fashionable as well as popular says leading auction specialist BCA (British Car Auctions).

With the massive interest in music festivals and increasing awareness of the environmental impact of flying abroad, caravanning has a fresh new image. It is no surprise, therefore, that BCA has seen increasing demand in caravan and motorhome sales in recent months. And with such unpredictable weather so far this summer, owning a caravan or motorhome provides the perfect opportunity to make the most of the sun the moment it makes an appearance.

“Caravanning offers a great value holiday solution for anyone wanting to get away”, confirmed BCA’s Tim Naylor. “We see buyers coming from far and wide to our dedicated Caravan and Motorhome sales and we are expecting a big turnout for our next sale at our Measham Centre on 10th August.”

Sales are held every month at BCA Measham and include Caravans and Motor Homes, with a typical sale featuring around 75 units. The age and specification of the vehicles will vary from sale to sale, but regularly include up to six berth caravans, both single and twin axle, and a broad range of motorhomes from 2 berth upwards.

The various makes and models on offer will often include ABI, Abbey, Lunar, Arundale, Bessecar, Elddis, Swift and coachbuilt motorhomes from a variety of manaufacturers. Vehicles are entered for sale by finance and leasing companies, dealers and private owners.

Sales are exceptionally well attended and generally the vast majority of the vehicles will sell - around 90% on average. The sale is open to everybody and attracts a large number of potential and existing caravan owners looking for a good value vehicle.

Naylor added “The first piece of advice we would give budding caravan buyers is to set a firm budget and do some research on what they require before visiting a sale. Always be prepared to walk away if the bidding gets too hot and try to be flexible – if you are outbid on your first choice, perhaps have a second choice to fall back on.”

Vehicles are lined up undercover so there are no worries about the weather and are sold 'in situ' from a mobile rostrum. Sales start around 2.00 pm and viewing is from 9.00 am, so there is plenty of time to look around. Catalogues are available online in advance from BCA’s website and on the day itself.

“If you intend towing your purchase home, remember it is your responsibility to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and is correctly and safely hitched. We can offer a full delivery service to anywhere in the UK, if required”, concluded Naylor.

For further information visit commercialauctionview.co.uk

Getting a good deal on a caravan at auction

BCA’s Top Tips

Do your homework – make sure you know what to look for in the caravan you want to buy. If you are not sure, bring someone with you who is.

Set yourself a price limit and stick to it. If the bidding exceeds that figure, walk away. Leave part of your budget for any minor repairs that may need doing and a thorough service.

Do not impulse buy – particularly if you are new to caravanning. Your lack of experience will inevitably let you down.

Remember all caravans and motorhomes are sold as seen, so use the viewing time wisely. Check inside and out as carefully as you can.

Always review the sale day catalogue carefully – there might be some interesting late entries you have missed.

Five of the best at BCA Measham on 10th August

2005 Avondale Argente 650/6 Twin Axle, 4 berth, 1 door. White

2004 Coachman 520 VIP Caravan. Single Axle, 4 berth, End Washroom with Separate Shower

2006 Elldis Xscape 556, Single Axle, 6 berth

Newmar Dutch Star, coachbuilt luxury motorhome/tourbus, 1 door, 8.3 litre diesel, manual, 4 berth, Silver/Black (left hand drive). 22,000 miles

2005 Ford Transit 100 T350 Blucamp , Coachbuilt/Bespoke , 3 doors , 2.0, Diesel, Manual, (left hand drive). 12,000 miles