What do I need to know about living in an RV?

Question

If I were to buy some type of RV, 5th wheel...could I save money? I live in the Denver area and pay $850/mo for housing. Where could I park it long term and how much would that cost? Could I get a good internet connection? How much would electicity/gas/water run me per month? Is it feasible?

Answer 1

You are probably not going to save any money unless you get farther away from the Denver metro area.All things being the same, rent is based on square footage.

For instance,storage lockers are usually priced the same as an apartment in the same area.It may sound like less but that is because they are so small in size compared too an apartment. You might save a little on the space rent for a trailer but that is because you are only being charged for the tiny bit of land that you are parked on and you would be further away from where you currently live in and in an area with lower square footage costs.You might even find it is more expensive by the time you add in your costs to commute. Trailers and motorhomes are not as energy efficient as a building because the walls are much thinner than a building so your utilities would be higher especially in the Colorado winter climate extremes. Finally,if something breaks the expense (parts & labor) will be all yours.In an apartment you just call the maintenance man.You can deduct interest on the loan if you finance the purchase of your trailer which might help on your taxes, but on the other hand you will have to carry more insurance to satisfy your lender.

The least expensive alternative would be to find or be  a roomate...Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Check with campgrounds in the area and see what they charge for long term spaces.  You'd probably be a ways outside the city, but unless you're going downtown to work, it might not be a bad fit.  RV living is different, though.  They glamorize it on Grey's Anatomy, with McDreamy living in one, but the space is small and storage is a dream.  It's not the same as living in a house.

Answer 3

Yes, it's feasible.  Only if you like to travel.  Don't forget the upkeep on the vehicles.  You would have to get a Post Office Box and then have your mail forwarded to you once you get to a location that you will stay at for awhile.

It will get old after a while.  Find a cheaper place.

Good luck.

Answer 4

Living in an rv can cheaper if you purchase a four season unit if not the propane will cost you dearly. RV parks generally charge less for monthly long term folks. If its a decent park wireless Internet is usually available. Utilities well some charge for electric while water is free.

I am in Anchorage AK and its feasible for me, but let me warn you its fine for one or two people more than that your asking for trouble.'

A few years ago I wintered in Denver and there was RV park open year round and did monthly rentals up on i-76 one exit past the Brighton exit.

This life style isnt for every one but if you work all over and move around quite a bit its te way to go.