Community Forums

macgregor68 · 02-20-2015, 10:57 AM

Hi All,

We are looking to buy our first DP RV. Been full time on the boat until now so we know the systems around the RV but have no clue regarding the importance of the rest.

Our budget is around $65K.

Here are a few important things for us:

1. lots of counter space and have an oven to bake (so far we haven't found "lots") in the kitchen since we cook a lot .

2. Self Contained

3. Would like to have 2 slides in the living area for more space, less concerned about the bedroom.

We have been zooming in on:

1. 2003 Fleetwood Discovery 39
2. 2006 coachmen cross country 38DS

Any advise on the two above or suggestions on others in that price range would be appreciated.

Old Car Nut · 02-20-2015, 11:12 AM

Personally I would lean more to something like this

Now I will sit back and watch what else comes up

TurtleKent · 02-20-2015, 11:35 AM

If you have been F/T on a boat, you know d-i-y quite well. But still, allow at least 10% of your budget for after-purchase repairs/parts/maintenance... things that you can't do yourself... New tires/batteries/HVAC/appliances/parts/etc. 10%, you will need to spend it so plan on it.

Biggest concerns should be structural: rust, prior water damage, mildew/smoke/pet smells. Maintenance records important, but usually not available, in which case you need to reset maintenance at zero with all new fluids, filters, belts, etc.

Consider whether you want to buy an 'orphan' coach. Even tho you are looking at 10+ yr old coaches, some parts may still be available from factory. Most of the house parts, appliances are generic. My 2¢, happy hunting.

macgregor68 · 02-20-2015, 11:53 AM

Old car nut- thanks for the link. we looked at a few Monacos but to get 2 slides in the living area require buying a 3 slide rv and they go for more than $65K

TurtleKent- yes, we can do EVERYTHING on our own including major diesel engine repairs. We do have some extra for these "after purchase" issues.

We were looking at one RV that we really like but there is no service center to check it. the closest one is 3 hour away so not sure what to do about it.

GaryKD · 02-20-2015, 11:55 AM

Hi macgregor68,
Check out Newmar coaches of the same vintage. The Kountry Star and Dutch Star will accommodate your requirements. Consider the top three things to look at:
1. floor plan
2. NCC or CCC (depending on manufacturer) - Will the coach carry you, all your stuff and people?
3. GCWR minus GVWR & receiver weight rating - Will the coach tow what you want to tow?

After the above are met, one can make the decision as difficult as one wants to make it.

Ramets · 02-21-2015, 07:06 AM

Lots of counter space?? I don't believe you'll find that. Also kind of difficult to find a coach with two front slides. I have two slides, but ones in the living room, the other in the bedroom. It's been working well for us for 5yrs. of fulltiming. It's hard to find an RV that will have EVERYTHING you want. Compromises have to be made. If fulltime is in your plans, I would definately look at a little better quality motorhome than what you're currently thinking of. As mentioned, Newmar Dutch Star is one I would put on the list. Look at Tiffin, and Monaco too. With a budget of $65k, and some searching you should be able to find something that'll work. Try looking at www.pplmotorhomes.com to get an idea of prices. They're a large consignment dealer in Texas, and usually have a huge supply of motorhomes. Good luck.

Mike_Harriet · 02-21-2015, 08:12 AM

Year ago we sold our live aboard trawler (42'), and moved onto a 40', 3 slide Dutch Star. After 10yrs on boat it was time. We had some of the same requirements you want in your RV. However size comparisons are misleading. Not near as much in rv, but seems more usable. Counter space is a bit less, but laid out better. We really are enjoying the rv life. Less cleaning/maintenance/upkeep/weather issues, have been great. We were lucky, and got our 2003 Dutch Star, with 62,000 miles, including toad and tow rig, for less than your $65,000 budget. DO keep $10,000 to upgrade, other posters are right. You will use it. I've replaced shocks, complete fluids/filters service (by me), and worked on fridge. If you are an ex boat liveboard, your skill set should he very valuable. The right coach is out there, keep the faith and keep looking.

macgregor68 · 02-21-2015, 11:09 PM

Thanks for all the comments. We are doing more research on Winnebago Horizon and Monaco Diplomat both 40ft

EngineerRick · 02-21-2015, 11:58 PM

If you find an interesting coach in an out of the way place, you might find a good mobile RV tech through a local RV park. I've had a couple of repairs done by mobile techs and been happy with their knowledge & the repairs.

adamfolger · 02-22-2015, 02:37 AM

2001 Monaco Dynasty 38', Class A - Diesel RV For Sale in Kennedale, Texas | Kennedale Camper Sales 014549 | RVT.com - 115774 This one is just like mine that I paid $70,000 but this one has 40,000 more miles on it. Miles ok if well maintained and has records. Doesn't say it has Aqua Hot ($10,000 option) and has the 350 ISC instead of the 370 ISL but I bet you can get them down on the price...
We love everything about ours !!