Refresh loader

Category : Careers Jobs

Home > Archive for Careers Jobs

RV Rental Business for sale by owner

Believe it or not, this is the short version describing the sale of this RV Rental Business.
Philip Jacobs - Owner of Hightened Path RV

Introduction:
My name Philip Jacobs, the accomplished owner of Hightened Path RV, an RV rental company based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I’m looking to sell my RV rental business and I’m eager to share its story with you.

I started Hightened Path RV in 2009 after a divorce left me with an RV, a 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow, that I wasn’t using. I decided to rent it out to cover the expenses, and I was immediately surprised by how quickly the demand for RV rentals was. After a couple of years doing this, I began talking with other owners and added their RVs to my rental fleet, growing it to 25 units over the course of eight years where I decided to keep it manageable.

2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow
My 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow started this RV rental endeavor.

RV Rental Business Model

RV Rental Owner Management

The concept of Hightened Path RV is simple: for over 10 years, I have helped owners rent out their RVs by managing the entire process for them, from marketing and advertising to maintenance and repair, storage and administration. This is called an Owner Managed Consignment Fleet. Each year, I would go and find new owners with newer RV units to add to my existing fleet. Units that were 5 years old we would sell for the owner and earn a commission.  This has allowed me to build a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the Colorado Springs community.

In the early days of the business, I operated out of my landlord’s garage, washing, repairing and prepping RVs for rental outside in the driveway. After a few years, I moved the fleet to a local storage facility, and in 2012, I expanded to a second location in Mesa, Arizona to offset having no income during the winter months, therefore allowing the RVs to continue to generate revenue. When I returned to Colorado in Spring of 2013, I had to find a new home for my RV rental fleet since my storage facility owner informed me that I could no longer rent RVs on their property. At this point, I thought the business was over!  But, through a connection from my Arizona location, I was introduced to the owner of Pro Tech RV, where I sub-leased space for the next 10 years. As they grew and changed locations several times, I followed suit.  Having a repair shop associated with my rental fleet was a huge help in the continued success of the business.

When I first started Hightened Path RV, I had no experience running a business, and the gross profits were low. However, I was determined to make the business as profitable as possible, and I sought out mentors and fellow business owners to help me make adjustments to the business model. Over the years, I was able to grow the gross revenue from $30,000 in 2009 to $560,000 in 2021 with only 25 RV units and four months of summer rental season.

Hightened Path RV Rentals fleet

Finally, after 14 years, I finally decided to close the doors of Hightened Path RV at the end of the 2023 rental season. I wasn’t able to grow the business the way I envisioned. Mostly due to lack of financing and a location that suited my needs. However, I believe that this business has the potential for continued growth and success under the right ownership and with the best systems in place. With a loyal customer base, a strong reputation, and a proven track record of success, Hightened Path RV is a unique investment opportunity.

If you’re interested in learning more about Hightened Path RV and how you can become the new owner, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have and provide additional information.

Philip Jacobs Hightened Path RV Rentals Owner

So, this is the cliff note version of the success of Hightened Path RV.


Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Pros:

  • Leverage other people’s RVs to generate income
  • Strong demand for RV rentals, with customers renting even in a tough economy
  • RV rental market has consistently grown, even during economic downturns
  • Offset expenses by offering RV storage options to non-consignment owners
  • Use any RVs from your fleet for your own adventures
  • Low capital and overhead costs make it easy to grow the business
  • Access to a large customer base, with over 5000 customers in the database
  • Established reputation in Colorado Springs, with over 200 positive reviews
  • Flexibility to scale the business and add more RVs to the fleet as demand increases

Cons:

  • Employee management and overhead costs can be significant
  • Repairs and maintenance costs can be overwhelming, regardless of the RV’s year
  • Hands-on management and attention to detail are required, with long hours during the summer months
  • Cleaning and prepping can be monotonous and time-consuming
  • Seasonal fluctuations in demand can impact cash flow and require careful management
  • Competition from other RV rental companies and peer-to-peer platforms can be challenging
  • Insurance and liability concerns require careful consideration and management
  • Dealing with challenging customers can be stressful and time-consuming
  • Managing relationships with RV owners can be a love-hate relationship, requiring strong communication and being responsive

Here are the P&L numbers from the last 5 years*:

*Click the year to see the complete Profit and Loss Statement. To see a side-by-side yearly comparison, click here.
**These are allocating unnecessary funds for redistribution for a positive cash flow.

What is included with the RV rental business sale:
(click the title to preview each item).

  1. Assets: A 2008 Chevy Silverado 2500HD truck, fully equipped for RV towing and transport (Seen in the first photo). Valued at $10,000.
  2. Inventory: A comprehensive inventory package, including all necessary equipment and supplies to run the business with a fleet of 25 RV units. Valued at $35,000
  3. Customer Database: Access to a well-maintained and optimized customer database, with over 5000 active customers and a proven track record of repeat business and positive reviews. Valued at $15,000.
  4. Website: A fully-optimized and user-friendly website, built with a focus on conversion and lead generation. Valued at $50,000.
  5. Owner website: A separate website dedicated to finding owners to rent their RVs. Valued at $1,000.
  6. CRM: A complete CRM system through KEAP, designed to manage customer relationships, bookings, and inventory in a streamlined and efficient manner.
  7. Rental Forms and Templates: The best rental forms and templates the industry has to offer, providing a solid foundation for managing rental agreements, waivers, and other key documents. Valued at $10,000.
  8. Videos: A series of tutorials, walkthroughs, promotional and more on our YouTube channel that has streamlined the RV rental process. Valued at $5,000
  9. Mentorship: Mentoring from one of the original pioneers in the RV rental industry. Valued at $20,000.
  10. Total Value = $145,000.

What is not included with the sale:

  1. Proprietary Backend Software: While a comprehensive inventory and CRM system are included, the backend software will need to be paid for on a monthly basis.
  2. Location: A physical location for storing and managing the RV fleet is not included in the sale, giving the new owner the flexibility to choose a location that meets their needs and budget.
  3. RV Units: While the inventory package includes all necessary equipment and supplies for running the business, the actual RV units will need to be obtained separately.
  4. Employees: The sale does not include employees, giving the new owner the opportunity to build a team that reflects their management style and values.

Here is the silver lining with all of this.

Leveraging the RV Rental Opportunity:

While the business being sold does not include RV units or a physical location, this presents a unique opportunity for the new owner to start fresh with their own inventory and a location tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Here are some key benefits and opportunities of having your own location:

  1. Customization: With your own location, you can tailor the space to meet the unique needs of your business, from designing the layout to selecting equipment and storage solutions that fit your specific requirements.
  2. Flexibility: Owning your own location provides greater flexibility and control over operations, allowing you to expand into new areas of the RV business such as repairs, maintenance, and storage. See “Missed Opportunities” below.
  3. Inventory Management: Owning your own location offers the opportunity to manage inventory and equipment in a more organized and streamlined manner, reducing storage costs and increasing efficiency.
  4. Branding and Identity: With your own location, you can establish a strong brand identity and elevate your business above competitors, driving customer loyalty and trust.
  5. Water, electricity, sewer, & propane. These are the only things you need at your location to run a successful RV rental business. We DID NOT have these necessities at our current location which added to the frustration of trying to run a well-oiled, RV rental business. Utilities such as water and electricity are essential for the upkeep and maintenance of RVs, from washing, dumping, filling tanks and maintenance to testing and preparation for each rental.
  6. Location, Location, Location: With the freedom to choose your own location, you can strategically choose a location that offers the greatest potential for growth, access to new markets, and improved customer experience.

By starting fresh with your own RVs and location, you can create a business that truly reflects your vision and values, with the potential to scale and expand in new and exciting ways. With the right strategy and mindset, you can leverage this opportunity to build a thriving and sustainable business that meets the needs of customers in the Colorado Springs area and beyond.

Missed Opportunities:

There were many other ventures I slowly worked into the RV rental business model.  But because we were limited to what we were allowed to do at our existing location, I wasn’t able to get these new streams of revenue off the ground.  Here are the opportunities that awaits the new owner.

  1. Mobile RV repair. This is a massive revenue stream and a constant demand year-round.  By having a dedicated truck and mobile RV technician, you would have a dedicated technician to maintain and repair your fleet during the summer while still providing him full time work in the off season.
  2. Mobile Oil changes. We started doing this in 2020 and the demand was overwhelming! There are very few places in town that will do basic engine service on Motorhomes. Being mobile, was a win-win for every customer.  We never ran ads; it was always based on word of mouth, social media, and Craigslist / Angie’s list. 
  3. RV detailing. We did this on the side, through word of mouth. We were charging $15~$30 per linear foot. I have all the numbers and figures put together to show that this could be very profitable.
  4. RV Consignment. During covid, many people went out and purchased RVs. But I know the numbers, and no one wants to keep their RV after 3 years. Now, many people are trying to sell their RV. We started doing this and only charged 3% commission or a flat rate (depending on the year of the RV).  We sold around 10 during the last 3 years just from word of mouth. But because we were never listed as an RV consignment through Google, no one knew we offered this service.
  5. Storage. As I mentioned earlier, depending on the size of your location (1.5 acres minimum for 25 units) you could offer storage for the local community starting at $100/month.  Depending on how many you store, you could be looking at $5000/month in recurring revenue which in turn helps offset your monthly lease cost.
  6. Propane, Dump, Water. By offering propane refills, dump station services, and fresh water filling at your location, you can cater to the needs of many RVers in one convenient stop. With fees for these services averaging $10 for a dump, $5 for a water fill, and $4.50 per gallon for propane, you can attract a sizeable customer base seeking affordable and accessible options for these essential services. You may be surprised by how many customers will appreciate and utilize these convenient offerings.
  7. Long term RV rentals. This is completely untapped market in the RV rental industry. We have successfully done many long term rentals, but they can be tricky if not managed properly.

Financing Available

If you have concerns about securing the finances, I have creative means and several contacts I work with to secure funds for this endeavor.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Philip Jacobs

Philip Jacobs headshot

Frequently Asked Questions

I will continue to add to this section as questions get asked.

Careers & Jobs

Have you ever considered working for us? We offer higher pay, with travel benefits and always have a handful of positions available that could turn into something long term.  At Hightened Path RV we are always looking for great candidates who are excited about working with RVs and traveling!  Every year brings new challenges and new opportunities.  Below you will find a list of the various jobs we offer and how to apply for them.  You can apply anytime as long as the job post is up.  Generally speaking we hire people for the summer season and keep a limited team during the winter months (October – April).  We look forward to hearing from you.


Recreational Vehicle Cleaner/Detailer

Location: Hightened Path RV Rentals – Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Part-Time/Full-time
Pay Range: $14.50 – $18.00 per hour
Pay Rate: Weekly
Duration: May-October
Link to apply: Recreational Vehicle Cleaner/Detailer – Colorado Springs, CO 80904 – Indeed.com
Job Description: Professional detailer, cleaner able to prep, wash, clean and detail RVs of all shapes and sizes.

We are seeking qualified, professional candidates to help clean and prep the RVs during the summertime.

Job Duties:
– Report daily to supervisor
– Clean/detail/inspect RVs
– Wash RVs
– Drive RVs & occasionally deliver RVs
– Prep RVs
– Assist with washing linens at laundromat

Required:
– Customer service
– Must have previous detailing and cleaning experience. (house or car is fine)
– Candidate(s) will need his/her own dependable vehicle
– Have a Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Insurance
– Team focused
– Profession appearance
– Must speak English

Not necessary but would be a PLUS:
RV and motorhome knowledge
Experience driving large vehicles
Mechanically inclined

Schedule: Flexible from 15 to 40 hours a week. You will have a schedule each week the days I need you, but the times may vary due to customer drop offs. Hours can be from 9am to 6pm, 6 days a week. Although I will only have you work 5 days and we can sit and determine your exact schedule later. You must be available and on time!
Weekends are a must, Sundays closed!

This job will last until October, possibly longer. This is a great summer job!

I need this job filled starting immediately. No resume is necessary, but references required.
PLEASE, email me or message your information. DO NOT CALL AND DO NOT SHOW UP AT OUR PLACE OF BUSINESS. We already have a high call volume and do not have time to filter job inquiries.


Administrative Office Assistant | Reservation Specialist

Location: Hightened Path RV Rentals – Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Part-Time/Full-time
Pay Range: $14.50 – $17.00 per hour + commission
Pay Rate: Weekly
Duration: May-October
Link to apply:
Job Description: As the reservation specialist, you will assist customers with securing an RV rental from quote to reservation and everything in between. As the office assistant, you will manage and maintain the ins and outs of the office environment.

We are seeking a qualified candidate to be the office assist and receptionist starting immediately and full time during the summer.

Job Duties:
– Report daily to supervisor
– Answer phone/make phone calls
– Setup reservations
– Sitting at a desk for 4+ hours
– Using a laptop with mouse and headset
– Send emails and quotes
– Processing Credit Cards
– Manage the calendar & weekly white board
– Manage emails and inbox

Required:
– Customer service and phone etiquette
– PC skills (we will provide the laptop)
– Comfortable talking with customers, people skills
– Proficiency with Windows 10
– Knowledge of common windows Hotkeys
– Proficiency with Microsoft Office; Outlook, Word and Excel 2013+
– Able to type 30-35 wpm
– Knowledge of Adobe Acrobat PDF
– Candidate(s) will need his/her own dependable vehicle
– Have a Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Insurance
– Team focused
– Positive attitude
– Profession appearance
– Must speak fluent English

Not necessary but would be a PLUS:
RV and motorhome knowledge

Schedule: I would like to start someone 15 hours/week + Saturday. Training for two weeks in the office. Once I feel the candidate is comfortable performing the tasks, they will be able to work on their own. RV season starts the last week of May and goes through September, possibly longer. Hours can be from 9am to 5pm, 5 days a week. Saturdays are 9am to 3pm. Although I will only have you work a maximum of 5 days and we can discuss your exact schedule later. Saturday is preferred and Sunday we are closed! This job will last until October, possibly longer. This is a great summer job!

Please send resume and references.
PLEASE, email me or message your information. DO NOT CALL AND DO NOT SHOW UP AT OUR PLACE OF BUSINESS. We already have a high call volume and do not have time to filter job inquiries.


Laundry Handler

Location: Hightened Path RV Rentals – Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Part-Time
Pay Range: $14.00 – $15.00 per hour
Pay Rate: Weekly
Duration: May-September
Link to apply: Laundry Handler – Colorado Springs, CO 80904 – Indeed.com
Job Description: Manage and oversee all of the linens for the RVs. You will collect, wash, fold and store linens of all shapes and sizes. Will need your own personal vehicle.

Job duties:
· Retrieve all laundry from rental location
· Sort, wash, fold all laundry
· Keep track of inventory
· Restock and organize laundry at rental location

Required:
· Must have own vehicle with valid driver’s license and insurance
· Attention to detail / detail orientated
· Be able to follow simple instructions

– All necessary equipment will be provided.
– Training will be provided.
– Make your own schedule; days & hours are flexible; up to 2-5 days per week, 3-6 hours each day.
– Seasonal summer job

No resume is necessary, but references required.
PLEASE, email me or message your information. DO NOT CALL AND DO NOT SHOW UP AT OUR PLACE OF BUSINESS. We already have a high call volume and do not have time to filter job inquiries.


Recreational Vehicle Lot Assistant Manager

Location: Hightened Path RV Rentals – Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $17.00 – $25.00 per hour
Pay Rate: Weekly
Duration: April-November (possibly year round)
Link to apply: Recreational Vehicle Lot Assistant Manager – Colorado Springs, CO 80904 – Indeed.com
Job Description: Manage and oversee all operations and customer rentals for the RVs. This is a busy summer job!

We are seeking qualified, professional candidates to help oversee and assist with the cleaning, preparation, and maintenance of RVs during the summertime.

Job duties:
– Report daily to Owner or immediate supervisor
– Oversee repairs & maintenance
– Inspect RVs
– Drive RVs & deliver RVs
– Keep the RV lot clean of debris, trash, and clutter
– Oversee all repairs
– Track your hours and keep a maintenance/repair log
– Use Android tablets for daily tasks, including (but not limited to) RV check in/out, preparation checklist, inventory list, etc.
– Fill fuel & propane for RVs
– Dump holding tanks and re-fill water
– Keep track of damages

Required:
-Customer service
-Must have previous detailing and cleaning experience. (house or car is fine)
-Candidate(s) will need his/her own dependable vehicle
-Have a Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Insurance
-Team focused
-Profession appearance
-Must speak English

Not necessary but would be a PLUS:
RV and motorhome knowledge
Experience driving large vehicles
Mechanically inclined

Schedule: Full-time up to 40 hours a week. You will have a schedule each week, but the times may vary due to customer drop offs. Hours will be from 8:30am to 6pm, 6 days a week. Although I will only have you work 5 days and we can sit and determine your exact schedule later. You must be available and on time! Weekends are a must, Sundays closed!

I need this job filled immediately. Please send resume and references.
PLEASE, email me or message your information. DO NOT CALL AND DO NOT SHOW UP AT OUR PLACE OF BUSINESS. We already have a high call volume and do not have time to filter job inquiries.


Recreational Vehicle Maintenance Technician | RV Tech

Location: Hightened Path RV Rentals – Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $20.00 – $35.00 per hour (depends on experience)
Pay Rate: Weekly
Duration: April-November (possibly year round)
Link to apply: Recreational Vehicle Maintenance Technician | RV Tech – Colorado Springs, CO 80904 – Indeed.com
Job Description: Manage and oversee all maintenance, repairs, and up keep of RVs. RV Techs are responsible for servicing all types of RV’s. RV Technicians will work on interiors, exteriors, electrical and plumbing. We are are seeking qualified, professional candidates to fill this position.

Job duties:
– Report daily to immediate supervisor
– Examine, diagnose, oversee and perform repairs & maintenance of RVs
– Thoroughly inspect RVs for damages and maintenance issues
– Oil changes & minor engine service
– Generator service
– Test parts and system operations
– Repair major components such as AC units, awning, water heater, pumps, propane system, etc.
– Drive RVs & deliver RVs
– Keep records of all repairs
– Track your hours and keep a maintenance/repair log
– Use Android tablets for daily tasks, including (but not limited to) RV check in/out, preparation checklist, repair log.
– Fill fuel & propane for RVs
– Dump holding tanks and re-fill water
– Keep track of damages

Required:
-High School diploma or equivalent.
-Customer service
-Must have 2-3 years as an RV technician or automotive technician
-Handyman skills are a must
-Experience working with electricity (know how to use a multimeter)
-Ability to multitask and complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner.
-Candidate(s) will need his/her own dependable vehicle
-Have a Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Insurance with good driving record (no dui’s)
-Team focused
-Detail oriented
-Profession appearance
-Ability to successfully pass a background check, physical and drug screening
-Must speak English

Optional:
-RVDA/RVIA CERTIFICATION are a plus
-Having your own tools is preferred (but not required)
-Any type of RV technician or automotive certifications are a plus

Schedule: Full-time up to 40 hours a week. Hours will be from 9am to 6pm, up to 6 days a week. Although I will only have you work 5 days and we can sit and determine your exact schedule later. You must be available and on time! Saturdays are a must during the summer season, Sundays closed!

Please send resume and references.
PLEASE, email me or message your information. DO NOT CALL AND DO NOT SHOW UP AT OUR PLACE OF BUSINESS. We already have a high call volume and do not have time to filter job inquiries.