End of an Era

 Earlier today, we sold our home - our old home, that is. Camping World both buys and sells RVs. So, this morning, bright and early, we drove our beloved RV the 100 miles or so to the nearest Camping World, in Fresno. 

Prior to that, we had completed an online questionnaire that covered the basics of the trailer, as well as the amenities, damages, additions, etc. to the unit. With that info, Camping World gave us a quote for an outright purchase, subject to onsite inspection. 

We pulled in there and expected the guy to go over things with a fine-tooth comb. After all, the RV was almost four years old, with it being occupied almost all of that time. We knew it was in good shape, but it certainly was not in brand-new condition. It had all of the usual dings, scrapes and dents that everyday living seems to generate. 

So, we were expecting the guy to open and close all the cabinet doors, check the operation of both TVs and fireplaces, the refrigerator, microwave, AC, heater, etc. We expected a detailed exterior inspection, including climbing on the roof to look for damage, examining the tires for wear, opening all of the outside storage compartments. WRONG. He did almost none of that. He checked that all six slides operated properly and sort of just took a good look around; I don't think he spent five minutes inspecting the whole thing. 

We were in and out of there in an hour! They're mailing us a check. Anyone else, and they wouldn't be getting the title to the vehicle that easily. However, this is Camping World, which is part of Good Sam, of which we are members and have been for years. We have complete confidence the check will arrive as promised in a few days. 

We have zero regrets or sadness about this happening. We were ready to close that chapter in our life as we start a new one. We are already starting to look for a smaller fifth-wheel trailer, something in the 28-30' length range. Such a length will be significantly lighter and easier to tow, and gives us many more options for camping in campgrounds, instead of just RV parks.

We loved our Big Country home. Despite a lot of early mechanical problems, we found it well-designed, comfortable, and spacious. I don't think either of us would have done anything differently if we were doing it all over again.