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RV Take Over Payments: A Smart Shortcut to RV Ownership

Dreaming of RV life but worried about your credit score or hefty loan applications? RV take over payment options might be your golden ticket to hitting the road without jumping through financial hoops.

What Are RV Take Over Payments?

Taking over RV payments means assuming someone else’s existing RV loan or lease. Instead of getting a new loan, you agree to make the remaining monthly payments under the current contract. Many RV owners seek someone to take over payments when:

  • They can no longer afford the RV
  • They’re upgrading to a different model
  • Their travel plans have changed unexpectedly

For buyers, it’s a way to step into RV ownership quickly—often with minimal upfront costs, depending on the arrangement.

How Take Over Deals Work

Traditional lenders usually require a credit check to transfer an RV loan. However, private sellers often offer informal “handshake deals” where you pay them directly each month instead of financing through a bank.

Here’s how it generally works:

  • Find a Seller – Locate someone looking to get out of their RV payments.
  • Review the Loan – Ask for payoff details, monthly payments, interest rates, and any fees.
  • Agree on Terms – You and the seller create a contract outlining how and when payments will be made.
  • Check Title and Liens – Ensure the RV title is clear and understand who holds the lien (if any).
  • Make Payments – You pay the seller or the lender directly, depending on the agreement.

While some lenders may not allow a formal transfer without a credit check, private agreements can be structured without one—but these require trust and proper documentation to protect both parties.

Where to Find RV Take Over Payment Options

These deals can be found in several places:

  • Facebook Marketplace – Search “RV take over payments” in your local area.
  • Craigslist – Check under RVs for sale or owner-to-owner listings.
  • RV Forums – Many online RV communities have “for sale” sections with take over payment offers.
  • Local RV Dealerships – Occasionally, dealerships help facilitate transfers or “lease assumptions.”
  • Dedicated Take Over Websites – Platforms like LeaseTrader or Swapalease occasionally list RVs, though they focus more on auto leases.

Risks and Considerations

While take over payments can be a savvy shortcut, it’s crucial to tread carefully:

  • Liability – If the original owner’s name stays on the loan, missed payments could hurt both your reputations.
  • No Warranty Transfers – Some warranties may not carry over to new informal owners.
  • Title Issues – Ensure the title can eventually be transferred to your name.
  • Hidden Costs – Confirm there are no balloon payments or hidden fees due at the end of the loan.
  • Private Contracts Only – Without lender approval, your deal may not be legally binding.

To protect yourself, always:

  • Get the agreement in writing.
  • Check the payoff amount with the lender.
  • Have the RV inspected for mechanical or cosmetic issues.
  • Consider consulting an attorney for contract help.

Final Thoughts

RV take over payment options can unlock RV ownership without the typical financial barriers. It’s a fast, often affordable way to join the RV lifestyle—ideal for buyers with limited credit or those who prefer avoiding traditional financing.

However, these deals also come with risks. Vet sellers carefully, verify all loan details, and document everything in writing to ensure you’re driving into freedom rather than financial headaches.

If you’re ready to roll, start exploring local listings, talk to RV enthusiasts online, and keep an open mind—your perfect RV deal might already be waiting for someone to take over the keys.

Sources

LeaseTrader – https://www.leasetrader.com

Swapalease – https://www.swapalease.com

RV Trader – https://www.rvtrader.com

Facebook Marketplace – https://www.facebook.com/marketplace

Craigslist – https://www.craigslist.org