Hi Christy. Rent here is reasonable, 715 p/mo. plus utilities. We have metered Water and Electric , flat rate garbage and sewer. 30amp and 50 Amp hookups. Each site has a 10 x 25 ft. Pad for access at ur door. A one time pet fee. Pool with nice club house, tenants required to give 2 week notice to use. There's a laundry facility with 4 washers and 4 dryers, kept nice, reasonably priced, free dry. Shower and toilet facilities for RV tenants. No daily, but weekly and monthly rates. Even with my furnace on propane, I still use both my fireplaces for extra heat. Total expense runs bout 900-1000. I'm on the Delta (just north of Brentwood), it feels like living in the countryside. I'm retired so I take advantage of all and any discounts like Care for pg&e. Tips...idk. I had a porch made for my front door, keep it well lite with solar lites, I recommend the 4pk of round solar lites from Costco, 24.00. And plants, as many as ur allowed. Makes it cheery. And...ORAGANIZE, ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE, dollar store or other reasonable stores. Change out all ur kitchen to lite weight dishes, etc. Since my place is brand new, I did put removable liners thru out. Then 😉 enjoy.
I love living in my new Coleman camper and stationary. It's like a studio apartment, solar ready, easy to heat with the built in electric fireplace. 20 minutes to work and the RV location is a campground that's a farm with cows, horses, goats, peacocks, exotic birds. Laundry facility on site, in ground swimming pool, for kids unique outdoor basketball court, jungle gym structures, horseback riding, kayaking, tubing. I have a river view . It's quiet, close to major shopping. ❤❤❤❤❤
In my very small rv park outside Marshall TX, lot space is $360 includes electric; water; septic and wifi (although it isn't very strong signal so it really doesn't work in my spot); shower room and laundry room (2 washers and 2 dryers)... I just bought an older 15 foot travel camper (was already at this rv park and most here are much older or more worn trailers)...I'm new to this however lived in many larger "mobile homes" throughout my lifetime.
What a unnecessary waste of money and time. Elastomeric roof coating is designed to last 10yrs...at $80-$100 a 5gal pale your throwing $1000 away...you should inspect every month or after a hail storm...and check any previous caulked areas for cracking(reseal those spots as needed) Any reputable company would recommend this method...the capitalistic basturds would recommend doing what you suggest on a monthly basis...haha
Hi Christy. I also went stationary full time. Made my decision, after 4 years of research, to sell my house and buy my rv. I'm 70 with limited capabilities, but needed to downsize, and it was quit the lifestyle change. I also moved from the Central Valley to the east bay in a rv park with full amenities and pool. Was able to buy new, very happy with the decision. The only problems I have come across is my rv was built during the pandemic, and the industry had to scramble to replace workers which shows up in my rig as little flaws like, doors hung slightly crooked, screws on latches stripped etc. Minor fixes. I was able to purchase a top end 38ft Jayco Eagle, washer and dryer stackable, 2 slide outs, bedroom with a couch and dresser built in, almost like a 5th wheel. Feels like a spacious apartment, perfect for me. I am going to upgrade my toilet to a higher end brand and also my kitchen faucet. Plan is to move closer to my son in Kansas within a year. Climate has snow but not to many days in freezing weather. But very happy overall.
Back in the 80's "I was in my 20's" I had a mint 32ft Holiday Summer Seasonal for 10 yrs. on the water at York Beach, Maine. What a blast living at the beach in the summer during the 80's. Anyways now retired and ready to "snowbird" Florida winters and Maine beaches in the summer. Can't wait.
Been really enjoying your videos. 22yo guy who can't afford rent in our small town with everyone from other states moving here. Recently bought a a 2021 keystone hideout 38bhd so its a 40 foot model and im getting everything ready to live in. Sun and heat is definitely something I need to figure out, need to get the electrical system up and running before I can use the AC, it's placed out on my parents 5 acres and is at least a bit more independent. Planning to have my partner move in at some point as well so I'm glad to see others are able to live in it as a couple.
We are lucky! We own property with my mother in law several acres. We have a fifth wheel it’s not new but we don’t have to fix it up. We own it. We are in the process of making sure our water tank and all is ready for us to have full use of the restroom. Gonna live in it for about two years to get bills paid off and start building on out land.
One thing to me that is nice about setting up an RV as your vacation home is that it is self contained and can be taken with you if you decide to move to a different spot.
I've been living in my RV full time for 3 years since I retired. I've traveled a lot but stay longer in places that I like, and I avoid freezing temperatures. I have solar panels on the roof, propane stove, and a gas generator. I was able to boondock for 3 months with the help of a friend's water hose and a weekly dump station at Mission Bay, San Diego. My advice is to buy a small car that can easily be towed on all 4 wheels behind your rig, or you can drive your truck if you have a 5th wheel. I bought new after a year of research on the floor plan I wanted. There is no mortgage; my house is paid for.
I’m currently living in an RV on someone’s property and it’s well, awkward to say the least, but it’s complicated. We really want to find a nice park to live in but in our area (Delaware), everywhere we look seems to be either too bougie (they don’t want permanent live-ins) or they’re too trashy - drugs and such. We have a newer trailer, so we haven’t run into the same older stigma that we used to have on our boat, which was a 1986….. BUT, we are running into the exact same problem we had on our boat, that everywhere doesn’t want people who live in it permanently- just vacationers. UGH! It’s so complicated.
My only disagreement with your list is buying new. DO NOT BUY new, if you can find a pre-pandemic trailer. Trailers and RVs made during and since 2020 are poorly made with little support by the manufacturers. Avoid Lippert and anything from Camping World.
My hubby and I just bought a 2024 Rockwood 20fbs GeoPro, and we love it. This is a 50th wedding anniversary present to ourselves. It is made very well, is light, so it is easy to pull and the perfect size for a couple. We attempted to find a used GeoPro in our area but found the new ones affordable. We plan to use it a lot!
@@nanaobx That's awesome!! I'm sure there are some well built newer models out there, but from what I keep hearing, it's hard. That's why they stress on insisting you get an outside inspection done immediately. Happy travels! ❤️
Up here in New England most RV Parks-Campgrounds have a 20 yr. age limit on your RV Trailer. Pretty strict on it. You have to be careful if buying a seasonal on a site. If it's a mint condition 2007 or so, you only have 3-5 years w/it. That's after paying good money. Your already behind because now "YOU" have to get rid of a 20 yr old trailer. No one will buy it because of the 20 yr old age limit in RV Parks. Just be careful.
What about dIy or rebuilt RV? I came into owning a Class C And a travel trailer from the nineties. I planned on completely rebuilding the trailer, and massively renovating the class c.
Same here with full time Rv living. This is an easy “hack”. I do this in the winter and or summer. The water hose is put out in the sun. Thus. The free sun warms the water hose and the shower is good. Free heated water hose. ❤❤ happy trails. 😊😊
I live full time in a large Rv Resort park in Central Florida. There are thousands of full time RVers in Florida and many other states. You can be in a membership group and move from park to park every 3 weeks or become an annual and stay put. Another option is seasonal snow birds who spend 6 months here and six months up north etc. My living expenses are very low. I have great amenities and choices of sites plus many mobile Rv techs available right in the park if I need a repair. I could never afford an apartment in this area and would not want one. I feel fortunate to have this amazing lifestyle.
Hey! this is great news!! I am actually looking to retire in a couple of years and looking forward to moving South. Florida is on my radar, just need to do some research regarding RV locations. Would you mind sharing some of those locations in the Florida area... My goal is to become a full time RVer when I retire. Soooo excited!!
We started out traveling in our rv, after an accident and some health issues we are now stationary rv'ers we love it. We had a chance to buy a house but decided to buy another rv. It's hard to imagine living in a house we can't take with us and we don't own. We pay fully for our rv's outright, so no they aren't brand new and I get a new house every 4 or so years. We pay 500/months for our spot and that includes all utilities.
Honestly I’m thinking about it for simplicity, it something breaks it’ll be easier to fix, you also don’t have to deal with typical house issues, like if a leak happens in the wall it’s an easier fix. Rats? Highly unlikely even if you live next to someone who has an infestation unless you have something wide open. Heating and cooling due to being a small space is better etc
ALWAYS turn off your water at the spicket and your propane when you leave your camper. It seems like a PIA but it really only takes 3 seconds and it avoids SO many potential problems. And dont forget to wash your awning (on both sides) every 2-3 months.
Me and my wife are remodeling a 30 ft camper to live stationary for a while. Looking forward to it but also holding my breath on everything that’s gotta get done. Thanks for the videos on stationary living! Helps a lot
I travel with my camper and love the variety, but I know several people who park their camper in the same spot. The big PRO they have is more friends. When I visit my friends who are parked, it is amazing how the community welcomes me and I have made friends at those parks. I don't have that when I travel. My plan is to travel to visit all the states and see all that I want, then park it. I'll then be the "interesting" person in the park who has a bunch of great stores. 😁
I was so excited to start my journey I didn’t go over everything and ended up with a camper that was much older and not enough storage space it has been a nightmare for me , we’re now searching for something it’s just so hard because these campers go beyond what there actually worth so it makes it hard to decide wether to risk getting into something newer.. I’m happy you were able to resolve your mistakes and find a solution that works for you thanks for the video
compostable toilets are great. I made a DIY one in a 33 foot RV with a urine diverter. Loved it. No disgusting sewer issues or dumping.Great video! Thanks!
We’ve been living full time in an RV. We lived in Texas, it was super hot but we lived in a nice ranch with a pond. Now we live in Georgia, it’s cooler here but we are right next to the forest. So far there has been a huge rat snake they climbed into our RV. Ticks that climb on my dog when we barely walk out our door. And I have a bad case of poison ivy, there are a lot of plants and vines here. The RV park doesn’t cut down these plants but it’s cheaper here than in the city but its you get the good with the bad here. I kinda miss Texas now.
this idea to get a truck and camper came to me since i've been spending a year looking at homes for sale and cars for sale, then realized i wanted to live both in texas and in florida where family and friends are. and it just occured to me that rv life like this could work
Your tips were "awesome" ... I am a writer, by nature, and am embarking into the field. I am also a teacher, so I analyze what I do and do research. With your information, and that of others, I will begin to put together a book telling what things to consider, take into account for the purchase, the parking, options to include, etc. THANK YOU so much for a VERY WELL DONE presentation! -rich-
I bought a 2023 a 23 foot tow camper it's only a 2 season I drove from muncie ,indiana to arlington,washington parked at a rv park been here a year now. If the whether is going to go down to freezing I will winterize it
After fifteen years in my 30 foot travel trailer, I found the perfect portable washing machine. It is small, forty pounds, washes twelve pounds of clothes per load. It has a high speed spinner that dry spins until the clothes are barely damp. It can be set in your shower or tub and filled with your shower then drained in the shower drain. (No pumps, gravity only). It is found on RUclips, I think. I forgot the company name and it’s not on the washer. The wash cycle is fifteen minutes and the spin cycle is five minutes. When not in use it fits in a closet.
Yes, there's definitely a need for ongoing maintenance. But if you can't do it yourself, you can either (1) see if a friend/family member/significant other can help you or (2) pay someone. It can get expensive--so I think most full-timers have some tinkering skills
How about using a RV over hang like the ones for cars to stop the tree branch droppings and a outside portable freezer, fitting under the camper or near a door for more frozen foods storage ?
Thanks for this informative video. Many interesting hints for people thinking of leading their life in a camper. I am deeply impressed of the size of Americam camping cars each time I see one. They are so big compared to the German ones! Just wonderful!
In Winter you absolutely will blow through propane. Also I typically had my pipes freeze. I was in the high desert so it would get up to the 40s during the day so my pipes would unfreeze and I could shower then. The newer furnaces in RV's are junk, and I had problems with mine all the time.
I can only do seasonal at my site because I am on Cape Cod. If I could live full time, I absolutely would. Mine is 38 feet and is enough space for me to be comfortable.
Hello Cristy, I seen your video I liked it, we’re I’m at the have a convenient store, small restaurant ,laundry mate volleyball court there’s another place I stayed and had all of those I mentioned and more like a five star it was very nice
Hi there! My husband and I just bought a 2011 Passport and had to completely rip out some of it due to leak damage and mold. 😅 thankfully the mold is all out now and we are waiting for the interior to dry out to repair and paint. I’m so excited for full time living but I’m nervous because we have a cat and a dog in a 34 ft camper 😅 any tips for keeping it clean on the inside??
Good Luck 🍀 It will be 3yrs in August that I began FT RV life. For most part, it's just me & my 2 cats (my sons at different times for short period) in an almost 30' 2021 Shasta 25rs & the struggle is REAL 😳 Between the fur on floor/furniture/everywhere, cat litter, & hairballs...
@@VampNrse29 ahhh we have been in it since February and I’m OBSESSED. We gutted the interior and remodeled it completely to fit our needs. It’s been a great experience
I've live stationary in my motorhome for two years now. I had a cousin with a full hook-up space they used while building their house and he's charging me a reasonable rent. My plan is to head to Eastern Arizona to find land next spring. In Apache county as long as my land has septic I can live full time in my RV. I have everything I need for solar, and I'll truck in water. Depending on if I have to do a personal loan to purchase the land and septic, after the loans are paid off in 5-6 years my housing expense will be about $3 a month to save for the annual property tax. Water will run about $80 every few months to have it trucked in and pumped into a storage tank.
Where in Nor Cal? We are looking for a park now. So far Dutch Flat up I-80 seems best. Im still working and have to go into the office twice a week in Sacramento
We too full-time stationary in a 30 foot travel trailer but in Southwest Texas. My sister full-times in a 40+ foot Class A motor home outside Ventura California. We live an inexpensive 55+ RV park. We have amenities and community oriented to Seniors. My sister outside Ventura is is a big open to all ages major franchise campground that mostly has short term campers. They have children and teenage oriented activities. She literally pays triple the lot rent that we do and she doesn't have sewer hookup. She needs to pay to get pumped out once or twice a week. We do travel North during the summer. But every year we travel less and less. Full-time RV living is a lifestyle choice. It's not necessarily inexpensive.
@ChristysDiscountLife I’m considering full time stationary RV living. My biggest concern is WiFi. You mentioned the WiFi offered by RV park not great and you had to get your own. Any recommendations? I currently work full time at home but have a hardwired internet provider. So this is my major concern. Any tips or recommendation would be greatly appreciated.
I know it is area specific, but, can you give us an estimate of the COST of an RV park rent? or is it cheaper to maybe, buy some land in the country and park for free??
I live on the West Coast of FL, currently pay $537/month (incls water/sewage) + Electric at an RV park with a pool, laundry on site, dog walk area, & bathroom/shower facilities. The rate is different based on Summer versus Winter months. An RV Park closer to my daughter wanted $1200/month + Electric. It's all about location. As far as buying your own land, watched a RUclips couple bought land in TN for almost $90,000 & they said expect to pay another 1/3 to 1/2 cost of purchase price in development fees for building road, adding water/electric/sewage access, etc unless you plan to BoonDock & then you'll need to find a place to drive your RV to dump the waste for a fee. Everything has Pros/Cons, you need to do the research & figure out what's best for your situation 🙂 Best of Luck
Their are plenty of areas in most counties and in every state where RVs are legally allowed fulltime. Look for areas zoned agriculture. The other plus of living in am rv or even a mobile home is your taxes stay really low. We have several acres in NY state and our taxes are less than 400 a year. When you hear people complain about high NY taxes it's because those are houses built with a permanent foundation but also in suburban areas. If you are willing to live in a rural area outside of the town or village limits than even with a permanent foundation 4 bedroom house your taxes should not be more than 2,000 a year on 5 or 6 acres unless you have other structures built on permanent foundation. Each structure built on a cement foundation raises your taxes but again if you just don't add improves your taxes will remain under 500 a year on land thats 5 acres or less. Also if the area you move to is a right to farm area you.can get exemptions for your.taxes for the first few years but really nobody should be running into issues finding ways to come up with 30 dollars a month for taxes.
Sorry, it really does depend. We paid $700 per month in a rural California town with few amenities. I imagine you could fins something much cheap in another state, or much more expensive.
@@ChristysDiscountLife that is INCREDIBLY HIGH!!! In Georgia, that is a small house house payment, or a very nice apartment rent. I live in Georgia, and I can BUY a nice size home, and land for $700 a month. California does have a high tax rate, but it is a beautiful state. I've vacationed there and I see why you love it.. I just can't afford it..
@@matthewmcmahon6727 That's why I asked the question.. I'm in Georgia, home paid for on 5 acres.. I live in the country, I'm thinking, buy an acre, and park there, property taxes are like $26. my dad's family is also from Florida, which also has a high tax rate like California . I visit and I SEE why they love it there so much . Me, I just can't afford it.. I prefer the quiet of the country. I pay $412 for 5 acres and my home, garage is attached, if it was detached, it would cost more.. and I have an exemption from school tax because I'm 65.
There's sketchy people everywhere, even affluent areas you would think are safe. You have to find the right place and if you spend more it alleviates some undesirables. Best part about RV is you can move to another location whereas a house becomes a problem to sell.
I really appreciated the video! I plan to retire 1-2 years and plan to long term rv in CA. I lived in Monterey for a year in the 80s and absolutely loved it!
How desirable would it be to split up my property to create a water hookup/electricity hookup and fenced off space to rent my yard out? I have a clean out I could possibly hookup to with a pump, but would be the hardest part of it
Not a bad idea, in my opinion. You just want to make sure there are no restrictions with the local authorities where you live. And then screen any potential renters thoroughly.
Maybe just my lack of knowledge, but walking around on an RV cant be good. Maybe side sweep and annual seal coat - applied from the side etc.. These tin cans - chuckle - are for temp use not full time so very high risk - I would guess.
We needed an extra room, so I went out on a lark and found an RV (I have ALWAYS wanted one) - a 1978 22' Nomad, for $300. For that much, I was willing to do extensive work as the only things I knew were salvageable was the trailer bed and the tin. Turns out, that was indeed all that was good - basically, I have built a brand new RV from the ground up and wrapped it in vintage tin. I've encountered the age stigma talking to some RV parks. I've decided I'm just telling them it's a 2022 custom RV from now on, because that's what it is. I mean it looks old but I've got sonar sensors, security cameras, and I'm working at running some automation through an AI my son designed. That is NOT a feature a 1978 camper has, so I'm thinking a brief look inside and maybe a chat with it will take care of any naysayers! LOL
If you plan to park in a reputable RV Park, you'll be required to submit a copy of the RV registration/tag info, so I hope you'll be able to actually "register" it as such..... At least that's been the protocol for any Encore resort here in FL 🤔🤷🏽♀️🤔
My RV is a 2000 Winnebago the roof is barely patched up here and there .a lot of mold inside the walls I didn't see any leaks though. Do you think it is still livible for Year's
Oh gosh, I don't know. I think you have to determine what feels worthwhile to you. I think the mold could be a concern, but maybe not if it doesn't bother you and it's not the scary-looking kind.
Question what about your a/c does it stay on all day ? I recently got one and have it connected to my house and it will turn off during the day the breaker will shut off
What made you decide on a travel trailer instead of a class A motorhome or 5th wheel? Do you guys ever boondock? Are you ever going to consider putting solar? How much is the RV park you are currently at? I'm thinking about selling my home and going full time. I'm 57, no wife, no kids, no pets Big house and feel as though time is just passing me by. Thinking about a smaller class A and maybe 15 acres of land in TN with electric on site. Thanks for any info.
Well, everyone's needs are different. The RV we own has been perfect for our needs. And if you think honestly about what you really need, you will find the right setup. 🌻
I jumped i to buying this one 15 ft travel trailer. Wish i would have really spent more time inside it...after paying the down payment and moved stuff in...i found there are several weak spots in the floor...how can i fix that? Can it be fixed (especially while living in it)??
You'll have to tear the floor up. Not so bad if you can find a handy person to help you. You just have to hope that the subfloor isn't damaged. It's easy to replace a few pieces of plywood and put new flooring down. But a bad subfloor would really stink.
@@ChristysDiscountLife and I'm beginning to think that's exactly what's going on...bad subfloor. Especially by the cargo storage. Tore out the frame of the bed because it was leaning, in the back left corner (back corner of camper). Floor is horrible back there...
What state do you live in? we always worry about winter and pipes freezing. We have been considering doing this in Colorado but worry about the winters in an RV
Can u share ur take care of rv checklist, and how long things r expected to last vs replace, once rv is ten yrs old do u have to replace per park rules
Hi!! Sorry for the long wait 🙃 I let life stuff get in the way of making videos (which I LOVE doing, btw) I've got some ideas in the works, so I hope to see ya around!
![The FULL Cost of RV Life [2022 Monthly Costs of RV Living]](/img/1.gif)
What are some RV park amenities you MUST have? What tips do you have for stationary RV Living?
Hi Christy. Rent here is reasonable, 715 p/mo. plus utilities. We have metered Water and Electric , flat rate garbage and sewer. 30amp and 50 Amp hookups. Each site has a 10 x 25 ft. Pad for access at ur door. A one time pet fee. Pool with nice club house, tenants required to give 2 week notice to use. There's a laundry facility with 4 washers and 4 dryers, kept nice, reasonably priced, free dry. Shower and toilet facilities for RV tenants. No daily, but weekly and monthly rates. Even with my furnace on propane, I still use both my fireplaces for extra heat. Total expense runs bout 900-1000. I'm on the Delta (just north of Brentwood), it feels like living in the countryside. I'm retired so I take advantage of all and any discounts like Care for pg&e. Tips...idk. I had a porch made for my front door, keep it well lite with solar lites, I recommend the 4pk of round solar lites from Costco, 24.00. And plants, as many as ur allowed. Makes it cheery. And...ORAGANIZE, ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE, dollar store or other reasonable stores. Change out all ur kitchen to lite weight dishes, etc. Since my place is brand new, I did put removable liners thru out. Then 😉 enjoy.
I love living in my new Coleman camper and stationary. It's like a studio apartment, solar ready, easy to heat with the built in electric fireplace. 20 minutes to work and the RV location is a campground that's a farm with cows, horses, goats, peacocks, exotic birds. Laundry facility on site, in ground swimming pool, for kids unique outdoor basketball court, jungle gym structures, horseback riding, kayaking, tubing. I have a river view . It's quiet, close to major shopping. ❤❤❤❤❤
@@itslandedwhere is this?
Could not send a photo, sorry
In my very small rv park outside Marshall TX, lot space is $360 includes electric; water; septic and wifi (although it isn't very strong signal so it really doesn't work in my spot); shower room and laundry room (2 washers and 2 dryers)... I just bought an older 15 foot travel camper (was already at this rv park and most here are much older or more worn trailers)...I'm new to this however lived in many larger "mobile homes" throughout my lifetime.
The first 30 seconds was so encouraging and welcoming. I’m going for the unconventional way.
I always swept off my roof once a month and seal coat it every year. I never had a problem or a leak.
Those are some good maintenance habits!
What sealant do you use?
That's a great idea! Thanks!👍
What a unnecessary waste of money and time.
Elastomeric roof coating is designed to last 10yrs...at $80-$100 a 5gal pale your throwing $1000 away...you should inspect every month or after a hail storm...and check any previous caulked areas for cracking(reseal those spots as needed)
Any reputable company would recommend this method...the capitalistic basturds would recommend doing what you suggest on a monthly basis...haha
Hi Christy. I also went stationary full time. Made my decision, after 4 years of research, to sell my house and buy my rv. I'm 70 with limited capabilities, but needed to downsize, and it was quit the lifestyle change. I also moved from the Central Valley to the east bay in a rv park with full amenities and pool. Was able to buy new, very happy with the decision. The only problems I have come across is my rv was built during the pandemic, and the industry had to scramble to replace workers which shows up in my rig as little flaws like, doors hung slightly crooked, screws on latches stripped etc. Minor fixes. I was able to purchase a top end 38ft Jayco Eagle, washer and dryer stackable, 2 slide outs, bedroom with a couch and dresser built in, almost like a 5th wheel. Feels like a spacious apartment, perfect for me. I am going to upgrade my toilet to a higher end brand and also my kitchen faucet. Plan is to move closer to my son in Kansas within a year. Climate has snow but not to many days in freezing weather. But very happy overall.
Good for you! I hope it's still working out and happy trails 😊
Thank you for being the only person I've ever heard mention RV parking and the space between sites. It's been my biggest "silent concern",
Back in the 80's "I was in my 20's" I had a mint 32ft Holiday Summer Seasonal for 10 yrs. on the water at York Beach, Maine. What a blast living at the beach in the summer during the 80's. Anyways now retired and ready to "snowbird" Florida winters and Maine beaches in the summer. Can't wait.
Lovely!
Been really enjoying your videos. 22yo guy who can't afford rent in our small town with everyone from other states moving here. Recently bought a a 2021 keystone hideout 38bhd so its a 40 foot model and im getting everything ready to live in. Sun and heat is definitely something I need to figure out, need to get the electrical system up and running before I can use the AC, it's placed out on my parents 5 acres and is at least a bit more independent. Planning to have my partner move in at some point as well so I'm glad to see others are able to live in it as a couple.
I hope it's going well for you guys!
This is what my daughter is doing in our farm!
Awesome Idea. Thinking about doing this!! ❤
What state do you live in??
@@northgeorgiamom8956good on ya for allowing her to do that! Way to go
We are lucky! We own property with my mother in law several acres. We have a fifth wheel it’s not new but we don’t have to fix it up. We own it. We are in the process of making sure our water tank and all is ready for us to have full use of the restroom. Gonna live in it for about two years to get bills paid off and start building on out land.
One thing to me that is nice about setting up an RV as your vacation home is that it is self contained and can be taken with you if you decide to move to a different spot.
I've been living in my RV full time for 3 years since I retired. I've traveled a lot but stay longer in places that I like, and I avoid freezing temperatures. I have solar panels on the roof, propane stove, and a gas generator. I was able to boondock for 3 months with the help of a friend's water hose and a weekly dump station at Mission Bay, San Diego. My advice is to buy a small car that can easily be towed on all 4 wheels behind your rig, or you can drive your truck if you have a 5th wheel. I bought new after a year of research on the floor plan I wanted. There is no mortgage; my house is paid for.
Beautiful! Well done 🙂
I’m currently living in an RV on someone’s property and it’s well, awkward to say the least, but it’s complicated. We really want to find a nice park to live in but in our area (Delaware), everywhere we look seems to be either too bougie (they don’t want permanent live-ins) or they’re too trashy - drugs and such. We have a newer trailer, so we haven’t run into the same older stigma that we used to have on our boat, which was a 1986….. BUT, we are running into the exact same problem we had on our boat, that everywhere doesn’t want people who live in it permanently- just vacationers. UGH! It’s so complicated.
Is it legal to live on someone’s property. I want to do this myself
Buy a lot
My only disagreement with your list is buying new. DO NOT BUY new, if you can find a pre-pandemic trailer. Trailers and RVs made during and since 2020 are poorly made with little support by the manufacturers. Avoid Lippert and anything from Camping World.
what’s wrong with camping world??
She said newer not brand new
@@AngellaSmall-c3z Google them. Awful customer service, poor product, borderline illegal sales tactics. They're just bad.
My hubby and I just bought a 2024 Rockwood 20fbs GeoPro, and we love it. This is a 50th wedding anniversary present to ourselves. It is made very well, is light, so it is easy to pull and the perfect size for a couple. We attempted to find a used GeoPro in our area but found the new ones affordable. We plan to use it a lot!
@@nanaobx That's awesome!! I'm sure there are some well built newer models out there, but from what I keep hearing, it's hard. That's why they stress on insisting you get an outside inspection done immediately. Happy travels! ❤️
Up here in New England most RV Parks-Campgrounds have a 20 yr. age limit on your RV Trailer. Pretty strict on it. You have to be careful if buying a seasonal on a site. If it's a mint condition 2007 or so, you only have 3-5 years w/it. That's after paying good money. Your already behind because now "YOU" have to get rid of a 20 yr old trailer. No one will buy it because of the 20 yr old age limit in RV Parks. Just be careful.
So true, you don't wanna get stuck holding on to something you can't sell later.
What about dIy or rebuilt RV?
I came into owning a Class C And a travel trailer from the nineties. I planned on completely rebuilding the trailer, and massively renovating the class c.
Same here with full time Rv living. This is an easy “hack”. I do this in the winter and or summer. The water hose is put out in the sun. Thus. The free sun warms the water hose and the shower is good. Free heated water hose. ❤❤ happy trails. 😊😊
I live full time in a large Rv Resort park in Central Florida. There are thousands of full time RVers in Florida and many other states.
You can be in a membership group and move from park to park every 3 weeks or become an annual and stay put. Another option is seasonal snow birds who spend 6 months here and six months up north etc.
My living expenses are very low. I have great amenities and choices of sites plus many mobile Rv techs available right in the park if I need a repair.
I could never afford an apartment in this area and would not want one. I feel fortunate to have this amazing lifestyle.
Hey! this is great news!! I am actually looking to retire in a couple of years and looking forward to moving South. Florida is on my radar, just need to do some research regarding RV locations. Would you mind sharing some of those locations in the Florida area... My goal is to become a full time RVer when I retire. Soooo excited!!
Hello, what are the typical monthly rates in that area? Thanks!
We started out traveling in our rv, after an accident and some health issues we are now stationary rv'ers we love it. We had a chance to buy a house but decided to buy another rv. It's hard to imagine living in a house we can't take with us and we don't own. We pay fully for our rv's outright, so no they aren't brand new and I get a new house every 4 or so years. We pay 500/months for our spot and that includes all utilities.
Honestly I’m thinking about it for simplicity, it something breaks it’ll be easier to fix, you also don’t have to deal with typical house issues, like if a leak happens in the wall it’s an easier fix. Rats? Highly unlikely even if you live next to someone who has an infestation unless you have something wide open. Heating and cooling due to being a small space is better etc
My daughter also has a 5th wheel on private property and only pays $500 a month for utilities.
What state are you in?
I have an RV parked on our land in front of the lake but basically live in our motor home. The RV is my refuge for ham radio and kind of a man cave.
ALWAYS turn off your water at the spicket and your propane when you leave your camper. It seems like a PIA but it really only takes 3 seconds and it avoids SO many potential problems. And dont forget to wash your awning (on both sides) every 2-3 months.
I never would've thought of this, but this is genius advice! Thank you for sharing
Me and my wife are remodeling a 30 ft camper to live stationary for a while. Looking forward to it but also holding my breath on everything that’s gotta get done. Thanks for the videos on stationary living! Helps a lot
Yay! Good luck to you all!
Super helpful, great tips thank you!!! We have been researching how to start RV living and make that transition and this video helped a ton
I travel with my camper and love the variety, but I know several people who park their camper in the same spot. The big PRO they have is more friends. When I visit my friends who are parked, it is amazing how the community welcomes me and I have made friends at those parks. I don't have that when I travel. My plan is to travel to visit all the states and see all that I want, then park it. I'll then be the "interesting" person in the park who has a bunch of great stores. 😁
I was so excited to start my journey I didn’t go over everything and ended up with a camper that was much older and not enough storage space it has been a nightmare for me , we’re now searching for something it’s just so hard because these campers go beyond what there actually worth so it makes it hard to decide wether to risk getting into something newer.. I’m happy you were able to resolve your mistakes and find a solution that works for you thanks for the video
Oh gosh, I hope you were able to find something that was a better fit. Stressful not having what you need.
compostable toilets are great. I made a DIY one in a 33 foot RV with a urine diverter. Loved it. No disgusting sewer issues or dumping.Great video! Thanks!
Ill be moving in My RV this weekend full time with my husband. Im so excited but scared at the some time.
You can do it! If it's right for you guys, you will make it work 🙂
Jo-jo, how’s it going so far?
I have had RVs for years and live solo full time in a Class A Motorhome at age 92 and still love it all. Check out Thousand Trails membership camping.
Before the winter hits wrap your pipes, also pop belly stove is amazing for them very low temperature.
We’ve been living full time in an RV. We lived in Texas, it was super hot but we lived in a nice ranch with a pond. Now we live in Georgia, it’s cooler here but we are right next to the forest. So far there has been a huge rat snake they climbed into our RV. Ticks that climb on my dog when we barely walk out our door. And I have a bad case of poison ivy, there are a lot of plants and vines here. The RV park doesn’t cut down these plants but it’s cheaper here than in the city but its you get the good with the bad here. I kinda miss Texas now.
This has been on my heart for a couple years. And I’ve been doing my research and as time goes on I believe it’s time I take this risk.
this idea to get a truck and camper came to me since i've been spending a year looking at homes for sale and cars for sale, then realized i wanted to live both in texas and in florida where family and friends are. and it just occured to me that rv life like this could work
Your tips were "awesome" ...
I am a writer, by nature, and am embarking into the field. I am also a teacher, so I analyze what I do and do research. With your information, and that of others, I will begin to put together a book telling what things to consider, take into account for the purchase, the parking, options to include, etc.
THANK YOU so much for a VERY WELL DONE presentation!
-rich-
Thank you for all the great input. We, too, are moving to Northern California to live in an RV. So glad I found you on here!
I bought a 2023 a 23 foot tow camper it's only a 2 season I drove from muncie ,indiana to arlington,washington parked at a rv park been here a year now. If the whether is going to go down to freezing I will winterize it
I love the rain in an rv!
After fifteen years in my 30 foot travel trailer, I found the perfect portable washing machine. It is small, forty pounds, washes twelve pounds of clothes per load. It has a high speed spinner that dry spins until the clothes are barely damp. It can be set in your shower or tub and filled with your shower then drained in the shower drain. (No pumps, gravity only). It is found on RUclips, I think. I forgot the company name and it’s not on the washer. The wash cycle is fifteen minutes and the spin cycle is five minutes. When not in use it fits in a closet.
Can I get it on Amazon and what is it called so I can find it and order it. Thank so much.
Sounds amazing!
I love all your maintenance tips! I'm considering this but I'm scared I'll fail at maintaining it all.
Yes, there's definitely a need for ongoing maintenance. But if you can't do it yourself, you can either (1) see if a friend/family member/significant other can help you or (2) pay someone. It can get expensive--so I think most full-timers have some tinkering skills
Great overview of things to consider for full-time RV life. Thanks for sharing :)
Love this. Good, practical tips for stress free rv living. I especially love the tip of buying new/newer rv. 🙌🏾💯❤️
Great tips! Love your planters! Happy Camping!
How about using a RV over hang like the ones for cars to stop the tree branch droppings and a outside portable freezer, fitting under the camper or near a door for more frozen foods storage ?
Those both sound like Great ideas to me, but if you stay in an RV Park, it would depend on their rules/permission 🤷🏽♀️😕🤷🏽♀️
Thats was a very helpful video on where you would park your RV also the other tips ,.Thank you
I have rv for five years I love it Oregon now I think I was thinking at Laughlin rv park? What u think
What's the monthly rent?
Thanks for this informative video. Many interesting hints for people thinking of leading their life in a camper. I am deeply impressed of the size of Americam camping cars each time I see one. They are so big compared to the German ones! Just wonderful!
We have been living in our camper for almost 7 months…. great tips!
In Winter you absolutely will blow through propane. Also I typically had my pipes freeze. I was in the high desert so it would get up to the 40s during the day so my pipes would unfreeze and I could shower then. The newer furnaces in RV's are junk, and I had problems with mine all the time.
Winter ❄️ can and will be a detractor. A tiny house would be more practical IMO.
I lived in below freezing temperatures in winter for 5 years
You know Amdre is a fortunate man don't you Christi? A cheap diesel heater works amazing. It saved my life through last winter in NJ
Very good advice take your time buying the right trailer.
I live on my sailboat, yearly cost of living $3,500 including everything.
I’ve done the same thing and I love living in my rv!!
I can only do seasonal at my site because I am on Cape Cod. If I could live full time, I absolutely would. Mine is 38 feet and is enough space for me to be comfortable.
Well I imagine the RV season at Cape Cod is very nice!
First time watchers, take a shot every time Christy says “water heater”. You’ll thank me later
Ha! How many times did I say '"water heater"?
^That counts as a shot, btw 😉
Wow! This is really good advice, Thank you!!
Many stationary RVs in my small town. They own the ground. You will never have to license that Rv again and no property tax. Pretty sweet...
Theres a rv park outside of phoenix az 800 a year
$800/Year?!! 😳 I'm thinking you meant $800/month??? What does it include??? I'm planning a trip for travel assignment in the future. Thank you
Hello Cristy, I seen your video I liked it, we’re I’m at the have a convenient store, small restaurant ,laundry mate volleyball court there’s another place I stayed and had all of those I mentioned and more like a five star it was very nice
Instant like for " do it for you if that's what you want and f what others think" ❤️
Hi there! My husband and I just bought a 2011 Passport and had to completely rip out some of it due to leak damage and mold. 😅 thankfully the mold is all out now and we are waiting for the interior to dry out to repair and paint. I’m so excited for full time living but I’m nervous because we have a cat and a dog in a 34 ft camper 😅 any tips for keeping it clean on the inside??
Good Luck 🍀
It will be 3yrs in August that I began FT RV life. For most part, it's just me & my 2 cats (my sons at different times for short period) in an almost 30' 2021 Shasta 25rs & the struggle is REAL 😳 Between the fur on floor/furniture/everywhere, cat litter, & hairballs...
@@VampNrse29 ahhh we have been in it since February and I’m OBSESSED. We gutted the interior and remodeled it completely to fit our needs. It’s been a great experience
Yay! Glad it's working out 😀
What are your thoughts on “the winter package”? And what is that exactly, I’m still learning… thank youuu so much for these no-bs videos
I've live stationary in my motorhome for two years now. I had a cousin with a full hook-up space they used while building their house and he's charging me a reasonable rent. My plan is to head to Eastern Arizona to find land next spring. In Apache county as long as my land has septic I can live full time in my RV. I have everything I need for solar, and I'll truck in water. Depending on if I have to do a personal loan to purchase the land and septic, after the loans are paid off in 5-6 years my housing expense will be about $3 a month to save for the annual property tax. Water will run about $80 every few months to have it trucked in and pumped into a storage tank.
Sounds like a great setup!
Love the video. Have plans to buy our first travel trailer toy hauler soon and become snowbirds in mid fall 24. Blessings.
Christy, this video is excellent! Please keep the content coming! I am going to transition from van life to RV life. I live on the Central Coast of CA
Way to go! Even though I imagine you are "expanding" your footprint--an RV is still a small footprint! CA Central coast is extraordinary!
Great advices of all.
How much is space rental in these parks?
Thank you Christy that was really informative!
Where in Nor Cal? We are looking for a park now. So far Dutch Flat up I-80 seems best. Im still working and have to go into the office twice a week in Sacramento
My husband and I are considering this lifestyle while we try to relocate. How do you get your mail and packages?
We too full-time stationary in a 30 foot travel trailer but in Southwest Texas. My sister full-times in a 40+ foot Class A motor home outside Ventura California. We live an inexpensive 55+ RV park. We have amenities and community oriented to Seniors. My sister outside Ventura is is a big open to all ages major franchise campground that mostly has short term campers. They have children and teenage oriented activities. She literally pays triple the lot rent that we do and she doesn't have sewer hookup. She needs to pay to get pumped out once or twice a week. We do travel North during the summer. But every year we travel less and less. Full-time RV living is a lifestyle choice. It's not necessarily inexpensive.
Yes, the expenses definitely depend on your choices and location.
Great video. Just subscribed ❤
@ChristysDiscountLife I’m considering full time stationary RV living. My biggest concern is WiFi. You mentioned the WiFi offered by RV park not great and you had to get your own. Any recommendations? I currently work full time at home but have a hardwired internet provider. So this is my major concern. Any tips or recommendation would be greatly appreciated.
It depends on your area. You will have to see what service providers offer the best rates and coverage in your area.
I know it is area specific, but, can you give us an estimate of the COST of an RV park rent? or is it cheaper to maybe, buy some land in the country and park for free??
I live on the West Coast of FL, currently pay $537/month (incls water/sewage) + Electric at an RV park with a pool, laundry on site, dog walk area, & bathroom/shower facilities. The rate is different based on Summer versus Winter months. An RV Park closer to my daughter wanted $1200/month + Electric. It's all about location. As far as buying your own land, watched a RUclips couple bought land in TN for almost $90,000 & they said expect to pay another 1/3 to 1/2 cost of purchase price in development fees for building road, adding water/electric/sewage access, etc unless you plan to BoonDock & then you'll need to find a place to drive your RV to dump the waste for a fee. Everything has Pros/Cons, you need to do the research & figure out what's best for your situation 🙂 Best of Luck
Their are plenty of areas in most counties and in every state where RVs are legally allowed fulltime. Look for areas zoned agriculture. The other plus of living in am rv or even a mobile home is your taxes stay really low. We have several acres in NY state and our taxes are less than 400 a year. When you hear people complain about high NY taxes it's because those are houses built with a permanent foundation but also in suburban areas. If you are willing to live in a rural area outside of the town or village limits than even with a permanent foundation 4 bedroom house your taxes should not be more than 2,000 a year on 5 or 6 acres unless you have other structures built on permanent foundation. Each structure built on a cement foundation raises your taxes but again if you just don't add improves your taxes will remain under 500 a year on land thats 5 acres or less. Also if the area you move to is a right to farm area you.can get exemptions for your.taxes for the first few years but really nobody should be running into issues finding ways to come up with 30 dollars a month for taxes.
Sorry, it really does depend. We paid $700 per month in a rural California town with few amenities. I imagine you could fins something much cheap in another state, or much more expensive.
@@ChristysDiscountLife that is INCREDIBLY HIGH!!! In Georgia, that is a small house house payment, or a very nice apartment rent. I live in Georgia, and I can BUY a nice size home, and land for $700 a month. California does have a high tax rate, but it is a beautiful state. I've vacationed there and I see why you love it.. I just can't afford it..
@@matthewmcmahon6727 That's why I asked the question.. I'm in Georgia, home paid for on 5 acres.. I live in the country, I'm thinking, buy an acre, and park there, property taxes are like $26. my dad's family is also from Florida, which also has a high tax rate like California . I visit and I SEE why they love it there so much . Me, I just can't afford it.. I prefer the quiet of the country. I pay $412 for 5 acres and my home, garage is attached, if it was detached, it would cost more.. and I have an exemption from school tax because I'm 65.
Where are you guys parked? I've been researching and almost nowhere you're allowed to park your RV for longer than 14 days
Where do you park? A trailer park??? Isn’t that expensive?? And trailer parks can have sketchy people.
And total buttholes.
There's sketchy people everywhere, even affluent areas you would think are safe. You have to find the right place and if you spend more it alleviates some undesirables. Best part about RV is you can move to another location whereas a house becomes a problem to sell.
I really appreciated the video! I plan to retire 1-2 years and plan to long term rv in CA. I lived in Monterey for a year in the 80s and absolutely loved it!
Monterey is so beautiful it hurts my eyes! That sounds like an awesome retirement 🙂
How desirable would it be to split up my property to create a water hookup/electricity hookup and fenced off space to rent my yard out? I have a clean out I could possibly hookup to with a pump, but would be the hardest part of it
Not a bad idea, in my opinion. You just want to make sure there are no restrictions with the local authorities where you live. And then screen any potential renters thoroughly.
Maybe just my lack of knowledge, but walking around on an RV cant be good. Maybe side sweep and annual seal coat - applied from the side etc.. These tin cans - chuckle - are for temp use not full time so very high risk - I would guess.
RVs not accepted over 10 years old in most RV parks, amenities, climate, many parks are $800+ month rent plus utilities that’s totally ridiculous.
That depends where u at. There is one that I know of in NC that is 525 a month and the age of camper dnt mater. With amenities except laundry.
Hi I have been living in my R V for 6 years ! The last 2 years l have stayed in Scott Louisiana !
Do you use solar at all?
Good tips ❤
Ima otr truck driver,so I’m interested in this.Its normal too me already lol
City centers? How about the city?
Thank you for your video! Really helped a lot 😊
Hello. People.
Which brand you people recommend?
We needed an extra room, so I went out on a lark and found an RV (I have ALWAYS wanted one) - a 1978 22' Nomad, for $300. For that much, I was willing to do extensive work as the only things I knew were salvageable was the trailer bed and the tin. Turns out, that was indeed all that was good - basically, I have built a brand new RV from the ground up and wrapped it in vintage tin. I've encountered the age stigma talking to some RV parks. I've decided I'm just telling them it's a 2022 custom RV from now on, because that's what it is. I mean it looks old but I've got sonar sensors, security cameras, and I'm working at running some automation through an AI my son designed. That is NOT a feature a 1978 camper has, so I'm thinking a brief look inside and maybe a chat with it will take care of any naysayers! LOL
Nice! And I think that sounds like a good approach: 2022 custom RV. Sounds very high tech
If you plan to park in a reputable RV Park, you'll be required to submit a copy of the RV registration/tag info, so I hope you'll be able to actually "register" it as such..... At least that's been the protocol for any Encore resort here in FL 🤔🤷🏽♀️🤔
Great tips
What does your maintenance schedule look like?
Great information. Thank you
Great video
Not quite sure why do you live in the rv stationery and not in the house? I do not see any advantage.
Mortgage?
Are you still doing it ?
My RV is a 2000 Winnebago the roof is barely patched up here and there .a lot of mold inside the walls I didn't see any leaks though. Do you think it is still livible for Year's
Oh gosh, I don't know. I think you have to determine what feels worthwhile to you. I think the mold could be a concern, but maybe not if it doesn't bother you and it's not the scary-looking kind.
Question what about your a/c does it stay on all day ? I recently got one and have it connected to my house and it will turn off during the day the breaker will shut off
No, we haven't kept the A/C on all day. Only when it gets really hot. Open windows in the morning and evening are usually the best A/C 🙂
Thank you for the tips and motivation
What made you decide on a travel trailer instead of a class A motorhome or 5th wheel? Do you guys ever boondock? Are you ever going to consider putting solar? How much is the RV park you are currently at? I'm thinking about selling my home and going full time. I'm 57, no wife, no kids, no pets Big house and feel as though time is just passing me by. Thinking about a smaller class A and maybe 15 acres of land in TN with electric on site. Thanks for any info.
Well, everyone's needs are different. The RV we own has been perfect for our needs. And if you think honestly about what you really need, you will find the right setup. 🌻
I jumped i to buying this one 15 ft travel trailer. Wish i would have really spent more time inside it...after paying the down payment and moved stuff in...i found there are several weak spots in the floor...how can i fix that? Can it be fixed (especially while living in it)??
You'll have to tear the floor up. Not so bad if you can find a handy person to help you. You just have to hope that the subfloor isn't damaged. It's easy to replace a few pieces of plywood and put new flooring down. But a bad subfloor would really stink.
@@ChristysDiscountLife and I'm beginning to think that's exactly what's going on...bad subfloor. Especially by the cargo storage. Tore out the frame of the bed because it was leaning, in the back left corner (back corner of camper). Floor is horrible back there...
What state do you live in? we always worry about winter and pipes freezing. We have been considering doing this in Colorado but worry about the winters in an RV
Can u share ur take care of rv checklist, and how long things r expected to last vs replace, once rv is ten yrs old do u have to replace per park rules
great video!!
If your stationery, what do you do about the wheels?
We keep them on there 😉
Hey guys
Any videos in the queue??
Love all of your videos.
👍👍👍
Hi!! Sorry for the long wait 🙃 I let life stuff get in the way of making videos (which I LOVE doing, btw) I've got some ideas in the works, so I hope to see ya around!