New member checking in!

[DudeDowne]

Hello all,

Just wanted to introduce myself and say thanks for such a great community and resource!

I am in the decision process of our first RV purchase, I would welcome any veteran advice and comments:

1.) Capacity Req's
Up to 4 Adults and 4 children under 12
Towing Saturn Vue (manual) ~4000lbs.

2.) Floor plan
-Master Queen
-Bunk Beds (permanent)
-Guest Queen for two adults
-(2) Guest Twins or convertible bunks
-it seems to me that a 32 or 34 footer is ideal. Would prefer smaller vs. Larger as it is our first RV.

3.) Miscellaneous
Leveling Jacks
Outside Shower
Master bed, living room entertainment system

4.) Price limit of $80,000
I have seen new models in this price range, but I am not opposed to a used RV. Any buying advice is greatly appreciated.



Am I missing any must have's for family of 2 adults and two boys 2 and 4, with the occasional family of guests.

Based on my initial research, it seems that a Class A Gas bunkhouse meets these requirements. Comments on rv classes, manufacturers and models appreciated!

Lastly...it seems the Fleetwood Storm/Encounter 32bh fits the bill. Does anyone have experience with the Hide-a-Loft queen over the cab? Are there significant differences between manufacturers in regard to quality, serviceability, etc.?

Thanks in advance!
DudeDowne

[JMonroe]

First order of business --->

A number of manufacturers have started producing exactly what you describe. In that price range you'll be talking gas, vs diesel. While there are a couple diesel coaches with bunks now, to the best of my knowledge they're a fairly new offering. Someone else may know differently.

If you're looking new, an $80,000 sale price would suggest you'd need to be looking at rigs with an MSRP at or below $110,000. That may be a challenge, but you should have relatively little problem finding a very nice two to five year old coach in that price range. There are a number of sites you could visit that will help you locate just such a rig. Type in your parameters and away you go.

Don't be shy about participating in our forums here. Someone's "been there, done that", and might even have an extra T-shirt for you.

Good luck in your search. I look forward to hearing how it goes. What you're looking for is out there, you just have to find the rock it's hiding under.

[DRosedale]

Welcome to the forum and good luck on your search for the right RV.

[holstein13]

I bought the 2011 Fleetwood Storm 32BH with everything you specified for under $80,000. To answer your question about the front queen bed, it is fantastic and a pleasure to use. Total sleeping capacity in my rig without cramping is 10.

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi and welcome to IRV2! Good luck on finding the right rig!

[Steve N Sal]

Welcome to the forum. You will find a lot of very knowledgeable people here. Hope you enjoy your travels when you find the correct for you motorhome. Take your time in searching, there are a lot of units available. Be safe and Happy Motoring!!!

[SkiPat]

Welcome to iRV2

We just purchased a 2012 Thor Chateau 31A that has what you are describing in your "wish lists". I think this type rig may be worth your taking a look at. We are really enjoying ours but will be honest and tell you that so far the only thing we do not like is that it does not have the automatic leveling system. Of course, we are new at RVing and have only made 2 weekend trips so far so not having the leveling system may not be as bad as it seems to us right now. We found that we were more comfortable on the second trip than the first and I'm sure each trip will get a little more comfortable and easier. Hopefully before long we will be "feeling like a pro"!

Good luck on your search!