Should You Buy a Renovated RV or DIY?

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If you’ve spent any amount of time on RV Inspiration, you know that renovated RV’s are everywhere, and they can be quite the show-stoppers! We’ve features cozy farmhouse style fifth-wheels to sleek camper vans, and everything in between, just showcasing how RV makeovers have exploded in popularity in the last decade. Of course there are two options here: buy a renovated RV, or DIY one yourself. It can feel overwhelming to know which route is best and makes sense for your timeline, budget and skill level.

Whether you’re dreaming about making the kitchen feel like a chef kitchen on wheels, or simply love the idea of simple upgrades to make an RV work for your needs, one thing remains true—there’s not “one right way” to get there. We recently ran two polls, and the results show that people are split on what matters most to them. When asked which feature felt most “luxury,” readers chose spa-like showers, heated floors, and high-end finishes almost equally. And while 68.6% said they’d DIY a renovation rather than pay $10K–$40K+ for a pro, there’s still a real appetite for custom, high-quality workmanship.

Let’s break it down, and walk through the pros and cons of each option, so you can decide whether you want to roll up your sleeves or buy something move-in ready!

DIY Renovation of an Older RV

Pros

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly (entry-point) way into RV life, renovating an older rig yourself is incredibly rewarding. You get total creative freedom, can learn tons of new skills, and may even increase the RV’s value depending on the upgrades (more on that here) If you see above, this couple transformed their 25-year-old fifth wheel, and it looks like a totally new space—complete with a work-from-home setup.

You can check out their budget reno job in this post!

Cons

We will just say it, older RV’s can be full of scary situations. For instance, the dreaded water damage, outdated plumbing or electrical systems, and mysteriously soft floors or walls. Renovating an older rig takes time, patience, and sometimes unexpected budgeting for repairs (see common issues here)

Best for

If you’re a fan of hands-on DIY, love a challenge, and are flexible on time, this approach can be the way to go. You can learn as you go, and you can also save money buy buying a cheaper RV upfront, and reserving the budget for renovations to make it custom for you.

Buying a New RV and Renovating It DIY

Pros

Just like buying a brand new car or house, this option gives you a clean slate: modern systems, no hidden leaks, and the comfort of knowing everything mechanically is solid. By buying a new RV, you can immediately focus on personalizing the look and feel rather than playing detective for past damage. It offers a peace of mind, espeically because a new RV will be under warranty, and be reliable.

Cons

Of course, new things are more expensive, and a new RV is no exception. Many owners understandably hesitate to modify a pristine brand-new RV. There’s always the question of warranty (and depreciation), however if you plan to keep your rig for a while, or understand which changes won’t hurt resale value, then you can go for it! Curious about changes that won’t hurt the value? We have a guide on that!

Best for

This is best for RVers who want to focus on design and upgrades without wrestling with repairs. Perhaps your tight on time, aren’t handy or don’t have the desire to learn new DIY skills, or just want the peace of mind a new rig brings—this is your best option.

Buying an RV That Someone Else Renovated DIY

Pros

You get to reap the benefits of someone else’s hard work! Buy a move-in-ready RV at a much lower cost than a if you hired out for professional renovation. DIY renovators can be incredibly creative, and many rigs on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or RenovatedRVsForSale.com are genuinely beautiful and unique! See the fifth wheel above—can you believe that kitchen is in an RV?!

Cons

Since there’s no guarentee that someone did everything right—from the wiring, sealing or plumping… it can be a gamble. Quality can vary immensely, and it’s important you don’t let the gorgeous renovation be smoke in mirrors for any issues. A pretty paint job doesn’t always mean safe systems behind the walls, or dry ones! There are many professional RV flippers who have a lot of credibility and do great, honest work, but we always say better to extra vigilant when choosing this route.

Tip: If you go this route, definitely hire an NRVIA-certified RV inspector to do a professional RV inspection—they’re trained to spot neglected maintenance and other issues that could save you from losing thousands of dollars on unexpected repairs.

Best for

This is best for buyers who love unique designs and don’t mind fixing small things along the way.

Buying a Renovated RV from a Professional RV Renovator

Pros

These are the showstoppers from head to toe! Professional renovators typically do this as their main job, creating high-quality, beautifully designed rigs that feel like boutique tiny homes. They often provide documentation, inspections, and sometimes even a warranty. Workmanship is typically top-tier, and you can see reviews on their other work, portfolios, etc.

Cons

As with all high-quality craftsmanship, the price is steeper, and sometimes significantly. Along with that, there’s also limited customization, and the resale value can be dependent on the reputation of the renovator and the specific renovations done.

Best for

This option is best for anyone who wants a turn-key renovated RV with high-end finishes and doesn’t want to pick up a drill. All the work is done for you, you just have to hand over the check.

Want to explore what some renovated RV’s look like? Browse available renovated RVs here!
You can also follow some pretty awesome RV renovators on Instagram—we have a list of our favorites!

Buying an RV and Hiring a Professional Renovator

Pros

This is the “have your cake and eat it too” option. You get to pick the RV you want, chose the designer, and together you create your dream rig. This means can incorporate premium finishes, layouts tailored to your travel style, and upgrades like washer/dryer combos or enhanced electrical systems.

Cons

It goes without saying, this option is pricey. Depending on the design, materials, and labor, you’re looking at $10,000–$100,000+. Timelines can stretch due to demand of the person you hire, budget can grow, so communication between owner, designer, and builder is key!

Are you curious about what this process is really like? Read our post about what it’s really like to hire an RV renovator.

Best for

This option is best for RVers who want stunning results without the DIY blood, sweat, and tears. If you have the time, budget and want to make an investment into the RV, this is the option for you.

DIY Renovation with Professional Consultation or Design Help

Pros

This option can be thought of as the hybrid option. As the owner, you handle the labor, however an experienced renovator helps with layout, material choices, electrical or plumbing planning, and safety. It’s cost-effective and still gives you expert eyes on big decisions!

Cons

With this option, you still have to put in the work, learn the skills, and manage the project. Plus, paying for consulting time can add up quickly.

Interested in going this route? Find renovators offering consulting here.

Best for

This options if best for those who are comfortable with the actual DIY part of the process, but want guidance on the project. The results can be beautiful and rewarding!

Which Approach Is Right for You?

Option	Cost	Skill Needed	Time	Customization	Risk
DIY Older RV	$–$$	High	High	Full	High
DIY New RV	$$$	Moderate	Moderate–High	Full	Low
Buy DIY-Renovated	$$	Low	Low	Low–Moderate	Moderate–High
Buy from Pro	$$$$	None	Very Low	Low	Low
Buy + Hire Pro	$$$$	None	Moderate	Full	Low
DIY + Consult	$$	Moderate–High	High	Full	Moderate

Here are the questions to ask yourself:

• What’s your renovation budget?
• Do you enjoy hands-on work or would you rather avoid it?
• How soon do you want to hit the road?
• Is customization or convenience more important?
• How comfortable are you with potential repairs?

Based on the RV Inspiration polls, most readers value affordability and creative control, hence the high percentage who’d choose DIY over paying for a full professional build.

Final thoughts on whether to DIY or buy a renovated RV

No matter which path you take [DIY, buying used, hiring a professional, or choosing a finished rig] your dream RV is absolutely possible. Each route has its own mix of cost, time, customization, and comfort level. What matters most is choosing the approach that aligns with your budget, energy, and travel goals!

When you’re ready for inspiration, guidance, or a turn-key option, explore:

• RenovatedRVsForSale.com for already-renovated RVs
• RV renovator lists and consulting options
• DIY guides: How to Remodel an RV: DIY Guide for RV Owners
• Creative ideas: 99 Inexpensive Camper Remodel Ideas For Any Budget
• Painting tips: A Complete Guide to Painting RV Interior Walls & Cabinets

With the right approach, your renovated RV, whether DIY’d or fully custom, is waiting to take you on your next adventure!