To buy used now, or to buy new later?

[Airmech]

So I'm getting into a little dilemma. I would like others opinion about whether to purchase a cheaper used 5ver in a year or wait possibly 4 to 5 years and then get something that I love not like. This is why I raise the question.

I have access to my dad's 24 footer that I could use throughout the season, but the one time we both go on a 9 day trip together gets really cramped for 4 adults. And now more family members are showing interest in wanting to come up for a couple days as well. Now that 5ver seams big enough but gets very cramped very quick.

So me and my wife are really wanting to get a unit of our own to have more space BUT, the question is, buy cheaper used now, or wait and get something that we love later?

Any and all opinions are welcome. I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place. Thank you.

[Mr_D]

I'd get a used unit now and enjoy it, then get something else later. I say that because life throws curves at you!
I retired in 1999 at 51, kept working as an IT contractor till the bottom fell out. Then my parents needed more and more help and moving to higher care places. Took over doing all their financial stuff too. Then they both died within a month of each other.
DW kept working. The week she put in for her retirement her daughter died and left us with two grandkids to raise. One is still with us (15 now) but the other has moved out (22 now). So she cancelled her retirement.
Then the DW got sick and has been off work for three years now, was on short term and then long term disability. Then April 30th they terminated her from her job and we lost medical and dental coverage so went on COBRA at $1,430+/month. Also finding out the they aren't paying the medical bills like the brochure says.
Then in June they diagnosed her with liver cancer. Just yesterday we got word that it might be treatable but we don't know for sure.
Anyway, do things with the family while you can!! You just never know What life will throw your way!

[Airmech]

That much I do know. That's why the used unit is coming into play now. Its been 11 years since I was forced to sell my popup. In the following years I've looked at expendables, tt's, but settled on 5vers due to safety of towing and large living space. I'm almost to the point I can get another one after so many years just don't want to make the wrong choice.

[Dutch Star David]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

I'd get a used unit now and enjoy it, then get something else later. I say that because life throws curves at you!
I retired in 1999 at 51, kept working as an IT contractor till the bottom fell out. Then my parents needed more and more help and moving to higher care places. Took over doing all their financial stuff too. Then they both died within a month of each other.
DW kept working. The week she put in for her retirement her daughter died and left us with two grandkids to raise. One is still with us (15 now) but the other has moved out (22 now). So she cancelled her retirement.
Then the DW got sick and has been off work for three years now, was on short term and then long term disability. Then April 30th they terminated her from her job and we lost medical and dental coverage so went on COBRA at $1,430+/month. Also finding out the they aren't paying the medical bills like the brochure says.
Then in June they diagnosed her with liver cancer. Just yesterday we got word that it might be treatable but we don't know for sure.
Anyway, do things with the family while you can!! You just never know What life will throw your way!

Life does tend to throw us some curves. I'm sorry you've had so many. My wife has many health issues, too, so we are "doing it" while we can. God bless and keep you.

[jimcumminsw]

I am on my third fiver now and my first one was bought used at a decent price. I was not sure if this is what we wanted or not as the DW wanted a Class A. I did not want a Class A since I already had the TV so she agreed. We bought used first to find out what we really wanted and we are now on our third fiver. Buying used allowed us to see if this is want we wanted to do and not spend a lot of money getting into Rving again.


Jim

[justafordguy]

I say get a used 5er that you love now and then get out there and enjoy life with your family.

[grassy]

Sorry to hear of your situation..

We bought a good used..will re evaluate after 1st season of long timing...

Grassy

[Czar Of Poop]

Used Now. And start enjoying rving.

[Airmech]

I've been looking at new, but life has given us some new things to work through and I have had to look at used. Have to get out and enjoy the beautiful scenery while its there.

[Jim T.]

Buy a used 5er. One that your wife likes. Before any handshake or money is extended, have the unit inspected by a pro. Looking especially at ceiling & roof for leaks & damage. Make sure that all appliances work or if they don't, use as negotiating tool on price. Tires - check date of manufacture. Again use as negotiating tool if over 5-7 years old. Brakes & bearings conditions. Be diligent on front end, not surprised on back end.


Jim & Shirley & Abbie (Scottie)
2013 Newmar Canyon Star 3911
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan

[Airmech]

That I won't be. When my dad bought his he didn't look close enough and when he got it home and for the first time was flushing the tanks there was a big leak. We went under and the plumbing looked like it was backed into a curb. All patched up in a couple days and that was the only issue.

[grassy]

If ST tires are 5 years old,toss them and buy LTs (as long as the rim is 16 inches).

life is too short for blow outs..

[Airmech]

One of our camping buddies had a blow out on tires with less than 3k on them. Tires are high on my list. That's one thing I learned on here.

[Airmech]

Thanks for the input everyone. Hopeing in the next 12 to 18 months we will have our own unit and enjoying the wonderful outdoors with all of you.