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Post by rosyrosie on Feb 28, 2008 13:18:38 GMT
Hello, My name is Rose, I am new to Motorhomes but as I like to be able to watch the sea in all weathers, and get in it as often as possible, I am thinking of purchasing a Romahome. I do not intend to make a lot of long journeys. I want to use it as a beach hut really, which I had for 5 years. I cannot afford a new one and it will not be garaged. Am i likely to experience a lot of problems with maintenance both mechanics of the vehicle and things not working ie fridge etc (read a bit about that)? I realise this is a big question but need to decide how much to spend and whether it is worth it. It will be my only means of transport therefore will be used most days for mainly short jouneys of between 2 to 10 miles (up 50 occasionally and on rare occasions 150) Any help you can offer would be appreciated. It is just for me on my own. Thanks  |
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Post by Graham on Feb 28, 2008 13:32:36 GMT
Hello Rose
Welcome to the forum, I have heard of some strange uses for Romahomes but never a beach hut.
If you can find somewhere to park it to watch the sea and use it as a beach hut I suppose it would be ideal. You could draw the curtains to get changed into your bathing costume and when you have had your swim you could brew yourself a nice hot cup of tea.
Regarding maintenance, mechanics and fridge etc. that all depends on the age of the Romahome and how well it has been looked after.
Have you got a mechanically minded friend you could take with you when you view your prospective purchase?
Romahomes are ideal for everyday use because they are so small they drive just like a car, so I don't forsee you would have any problems driving it round, they are quite economical too.
Good luck with your quest and come back and let us know how you get on.
Graham
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Post by rosyrosie on Feb 28, 2008 13:57:08 GMT
Yes I suppose it does sound a bit strange but I virtually lived in a beach chalet 7 ft by 8 ft with glass doors and miss it dreadfully. Had to move and thought I would be able to see the sea whenever I liked but not so easy as expected. Usually miss the best sunrises and sunsets. Into photography. Just using a pushbike at present and was going to buy car but suddenly had the Romahome idea. Thought I mgiht get van checked by RAC perhaps. Need to check that out too.
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Post by snobbyafghan on Feb 28, 2008 14:26:05 GMT
Let us know if you find a nice spot to sit and watch the sea from, preferably for free..! We won't tell anyone esle so it won't get crowded  Doug |
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Post by barry5933 on Feb 28, 2008 20:06:08 GMT
Hi, The great thing about the C15 and Berlingo based Romahomes is that they are really no bigger than a largish car, therefore for everyday transport they are fine. Similarly from a vehicle maintenance point of view they are a lot simpler than many modern cars, being based on a hardwearing commercial vehicle. So selecting a used Romahome is very little different frrom choosing a used car, from the vehicle point of view. Usual checks for mechanical and bodywork condition, damage or repairs, rust, normal wear and tear etc. The caravan part is glass fibre bodied, so no rust, but look out for damage, bodged repairs, and leaking windows/rooflights (damp or stained patches on the inside linings). They are pretty simple to maintain, the only caveat I would add being that the gas and mains electric installations should only be serviced/repaired by qualified people. On this forum between us I think we have most varieties of Romahome represented (as well as a few other makes) so I would expect some-one to have an answer for any specific question you may have. Use as a beach hut? Sounds good to me. A Romahome would be ideal for one (or two) beach bum(s) to hang out in.  Go for it! ;D |
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Post by marc4242 on Feb 28, 2008 20:11:00 GMT
Hi Rose
Welcome. Some related comments. Where are the best places to look for 2ndhand? I have used ebay, autotrader and gumtree. There seems generally to be quite a grap between the £20k+ second hand market and the well-worn sub-5k market. I bought MMM recently and found some of it really laughable. I mean who buys £70k+ RVs that do 9.8mpg?
In terms of inspections, I guess motoring organisations may inspect but I would guess it will cost a couple of hundred quid? Are there any specialist 'van inspectors?
Marc
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Post by playallday on Feb 29, 2008 0:59:32 GMT
Hi Rose. Welcome to the forum. I'm sure you will find lots of sound. friendly advice here. I have a C15 based romahome, 1989/90 which I use for an everyday vehicle and, apart from some barriers (once you've hit one you ALWAYS remember how tall you are lol) I would say the size is great. Plenty of room for one and enough for two friendly people! In terms of inspections, I guess motoring organisations may inspect but I would guess it will cost a couple of hundred quid? Are there any specialist 'van inspectors? Marc I took a mechanic friend along with me when I went to buy it, (both the AA and an independent RV inspector wanted around £200 + VAT). There was a full service history, which I think you should look for. The camper part I checked over myself for obvious problems like damp patches and window fitments and obvious damage; the rest I took on faith, as I had already fallen in love with it and couldn't wait to drive off!! Don't be put off by age, a lot of older vans have low mileage and have been lovingly cared for, and are not full of computerised whatsits under the bonnet so are relatively inexpensive when things go wrong. I get approx 40-45 mpg in everyday use, more like 50 when on a run. Look everywhere...local papers. autocar, MV dealers, ebay. I even saw one advertised on a postcard in our local Post Office! Good luck in your quest. Once you have your romahome you will have a beach hut anywhere you choose  |
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