New v used
Following the choice of type of RV, the next important consideration is the choice of new v used. Some used high end brands/models can be purchased at good prices.
Brands
A number of manufacturers/brands have gone out of business or been acquired. But their products, many of them well respected, can be bought used.
Dealer v private purchase
New RVs would almost always be purchased from a dealer. Significant discounts from MSRP can usually be negotiated; 28-32% is the range of discounts reported.
Used RVs can be purchased from either a dealer or a private seller. Dealers will either be re-selling a trade-in, or selling on consignment.
Buying used, the most important consideration is the condition of the RV, followed closely by the maintenance history/records.
New RVs, and possibly used RVs, will be subject to a PDI (pre-delivery Inspection) by a dealership tech.
Buyers should perform their own inspections, possibly with the help of a knowledgeable technician, before handing over their money. A checklist would be helpful when conducting an inspection.
Buying ex-rental
There are mixed opinions on buying an ex-rental RV. They tend to have only basic amenities with no frills, and they’ll likely be well used. On the other hand, they will likely have been maintained.
Extended warranty
Extended warranties are typically insurance policies sold by a dealer on behalf of an insurer. Since the dealer is compensated for an extended warranty sale, they will often pressure a buyer to purchase the warranty at the time of signing for the RV. The same extended warranty can be purchased independent from the dealer at a lower price.
There is a tradeoff between purchasing an extended warranty and putting money aside in a separate account in the event of needed repairs.