I full time and have a 2014 BigHorn 3010RE. 35 ft long.
My absolute favorite option is the Level Up auto-level system. Would not be without it. 30 seconds after you push the magic button, everything's level and it's Margaritas time (currently in New Mexico). And it's downright fun to watch too. Get it and be the envy of your neighboring campers. Especially in the rain.
I have the washer and dryer and like them too. Glad I got them.
Get 2 ACs.
I have the fireplace ('forced option'). The heat strip on it is great. Very handy in the evening. Saves propane.
I have the large double door Norcold fridge. It works well. I'm not sure how I feel about a residential fridge. In my opinion it adds complexity - requires extra batteries and an inverter. Looks like you would need a genny if you want to boondock at all with one. Of course Norcold does not exactly have a spotless reputation either. So I am officially on the fence.
Suggest getting the factory option Mor/Ryde pinbox as it works great. And also any possible suspension/axle upgrades. I have a Hensley 5th wheel air hitch in my truck and it's the cat's meow.
Get good tires one way or another. Mine came with the infamous Tow Max tires and they lasted exactly 1 year before starting to blow. I would not accept a heavy 5th wheel with these tires. Or maybe go straight to Discount Tire for replacements and sell the virtually new OEM tires on Craig's List.
As far as your budget goes -
I ordered my rig from a large high volume 'wholesale' dealership near Cincinnati even though I lived in Florida at the time.
- The disadvantage - I have no local dealer. (but since I full time there is no such thing as a local dealer for me).
- The advantage - I bought the rig for 35-40% off MSRP.
I used seedealercost.com to find out both invoice as well as MSRP for my chosen rig and it's options. No need to register at the site. Just click on rec vehicles and go. Then just add your zip code.
I found out that Heartland had a FACTORY 'secret options list' for my rig. I did end up ordering a few items off it. So you might ask is you decide on a Heartland model. I know this sounds crazy but it's absolutely true.
If I was to add one thing, it would be disk brakes. I've not had any problems but it sure would be nice if the RV manufacturers joined the 21st century in the brakes department.
On edit - My 35 ft rig has a GVW of 14,000 pounds. If you're looking at 38-40 ft fivers, then in my .02 opinion, you should be looking at a long bed dually diesel truck from your favorite brand.
Tim
