Some good advice already, but since you are on a forum already asking for opinions, I think you are more than just a looker.
If you are normal like the rest of us.. (cough, cough ) your wants and needs might change pretty quickly, so put your money into going places and experiencing the true RV spirit instead of what you are going in.
That said, I would buy a 10 or slightly less year old well kept gas rig in the 30' or so range with at least 1 slideout and camp in it every chance you get. Depreciation on these rigs will be nil because other people like you will come along looking for a good starter rig. Kept in good condition, it will sell quickly because the initial investment is so small. FWIW, I did just that with a '93 Jamboree that I put about 500$ into and sold for a couple of thousand more than I paid after camping happily in it for two years. I'm not talking about a fixer upper here, but a well kept rig in a condition ready to travel.
Then, when you have used it enough (which a couple of rental weekends won't even get you past the frustration and anxiety) to decide what you really want at the time, go after it.
Here are some realtime examples of what you can buy. PPL Motorhomes.
You might also look into what tax deductions may apply when buying if you itemize Federal deductions.
Happy shopping, the hunt is part of the thrill, and welcome to the forum.
* This post was
edited 10/24/07 06:56am by texasbaskets *
Michael, Kay, Hans (our Mini-Schnauzer co-pilot) and Prissy (Hans' Malti-Poo co-pilot)
'05 Coachmen SportsCoach SE 372DS a.k.a. "Mana's Cabana"
Why? Because as you will find out, you'll want to upgrade after the first year. I say start at the top with something worthwhile.
You WON'T be dissapointed.
As far as going to shows, that's a good idea, but can get you way too confused. We actually walked through campsites talking to other campers who more more than happy to show us everthing we wanted to look at. Dealers will confuse you. People who are "out there" actually using something will give you an honest answer and at the same time give you a tour. (and maybe a drink)
Joe
I agree with these posters. Buy diesel because you will eventually.
'02 Beaver 40' Patriot Thunder
CAT C12 455hp
Jeep Grand Cherokee Ron & Jane 2007 - 08
texasbaskets wrote: Some good advice already, but since you are on a forum already asking for opinions, I think you are more than just a looker.
If you are normal like the rest of us.. (cough, cough ) your wants and needs might change pretty quickly, so put your money into going places and experiencing the true RV spirit instead of what you are going in.
That said, I would buy a 10 or slightly less year old well kept gas rig in the 30' or so range with at least 1 slideout and camp in it every chance you get. Depreciation on these rigs will be nil because other people like you will come along looking for a good starter rig. Kept in good condition, it will sell quickly because the initial investment is so small. FWIW, I did just that with a '93 Jamboree that I put about 500$ into and sold for a couple of thousand more than I paid after camping happily in it for two years. I'm not talking about a fixer upper here, but a well kept rig in a condition ready to travel.
Then, when you have used it enough (which a couple of rental weekends won't even get you past the frustration and anxiety) to decide what you really want at the time, go after it.
Here are some realtime examples of what you can buy. PPL Motorhomes.
You might also look into what tax deductions may apply when buying if you itemize Federal deductions.
Happy shopping, the hunt is part of the thrill, and welcome to the forum.
I agree 100%.
Much like buying a house, until you've used/lived/camped in one for a season you really don't even know what you want in an RV.
It has been said, and I agree, most people don't keep the first one much more than a year. Heck we did a year each on the first 2 before biting the bullet and buying new - and I'm glad we didn't buy new first, as we probably would have bought the wrong one.
There are 24 hours in every day - it all depends on how you choose to use them.
Bruce & Jill Brown
2008 Kountry Star Pusher 3910
You asked about mfg.. No one else mentioned this question, There are alot of quality coaches out there. I can speak well for Allegro, Tiffen, as I own one. Search this forum AND YOU WILL SEE THERE ARE LOTS OF PEOPLE THAT SHARE MY OPINION. They have a great reputation, outstanding owner satisfaction, and a wonderful after sale record. Even on some not in warranty!
ole trucker wrote: Hope you aren't planning on the Rottie going along.
Most parks and cg's have a no breed list, and Rottie's and Pit's are on the top. We have a tough time some places with our Dalmation
I have had very little problems bringing along my Doberman. Granted some CG's have limits on certain breeds. I JUST WILL NOT GO TO THEM.
In over 5yrs. it has not limited me in any way worth speaking about.
What I have found though, is that the Resort type, or dare I say, the upscale or nicer CG's have no restrictions on breeds. I am very defensive when I find any type of opposition toward my dog...
Hi all. Again, I TRULY APPRECIATE everyone's advice & concerns. This has been a passion and goal of mine since I was 8 and "co=captaining" a trailer to Cherokee Park in Myrtle Beach with my uncle (great times!). Fortunately, I am at a point in my life where I can afford to consider, as well as pursue, this passion. Everything seems to point in about the same direction, and that is to consider renting & checking out the shows. I found a show in Tampa in January that we plan on shooting down to and we'll go from there. Further, I found a site "RVDirect" that seems to have competitive pricing on a Jayco Seneca HD & Coachmen Pathfinder, both of which interest me in as far as looks & floor plans without stepping foot into the motorhome.
Also, something of importance that I can share with you in regard to dogs & restrictions- Have you considered contacting your family physician & getting this vital member of your regulated as a therapy dog? (Hint Hint!!) Good luck!
By the way, for the last few years I've been setting up in different parks up and down the east coast out of my converson van while enroute to fishing, baseball games, etc. The van is absolutely BEAUTIFUL, with a nice flat-screen, and it fit my needs. BUT, since the baby has just arrived, no more "out of the van" for daddy! Time to upgrade!
What you should do IMHO is rent different rigs for a few trips to find out for yourselves which works best for you.
I agree with SCHARLEY
Another vote for renting...
A few years ago my father just went out and bought a Class A with no prior RVing. He and his wife traveled on several trips and after 7 months decided it was not for them. They ended up selling the rig at a $15K+ loss. I had told him to rent first to see if they like it. Unfortunately, it was an expensive lesson for him.
Agree with SCHARLEY - either rent or buy something used and relatively inexpensive. Going to shows and/or looking at other peoples RV's only goes so far. "Getting it right the first time" is also difficult when you don't know what "right" will be for you. You won't know what that will be until you use it for a while and determine what features/floor plans work best for you.
Just watch the movie, RV, with Robin Williams. That should help you decide if you really want a big motorhome or not.
Brian K7ZRZ
Campgrounding hosting - Oregon State Parks
1987 30' Holiday Rambler Class A
GL1800 Goldwing - Honda Scooter Mounted
2000 Silver Miata LS Toad
Hi DC - the biggest complaint that I have about class A's whether diesel or gas, is that they are not made for families - way too fancy and not practical. The demographics for these beauties is set for the retired group not the average famuly man. Someone has said that there are a few out there that fills the bill but I have yet to see one. Damon has one with bunk beds and I believe there may be a couple more but all in all it's for the fulltimers and the snowbirds.
Thomas "Rocket Heart" Emahiser
Anna,DW
Matthew
Alaina
) your wants and needs might change pretty quickly, so put your money into going places and experiencing the true RV spirit instead of what you are going in. 
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