Financial balancing act

bobkatmsu wrote:
We have talked about purchasing a used DP for years, but now we have to do it. Sold my gasser, so there is no turning back. Need some opinions. We have a budget of $125,000 to $175,000. We have narrowed our search to Newmar, Tiffon and Fleetwood. My question is this, am I better off buying a older one for the $125k or getting one 3-5 years newer for $175k. Both comperable in lay out, miles, etc. My concern is that appliances and so on are going to need to be replaced shortly, on the older one, but am I going to spend $50K over the next 5 years or so. Obviously, I would like to only have to spend the $125K, but looking at it long term which would make more sense? Not afraid of spending $175 if that is the right move. We plan on full timing for a minimum of the next 2 years at least.

My vote, as always, is for getting a reasonably quality unit, that fit's your budget. Also for one that came about before the recession set in and for staying away from some of the later emission controls and with having to add DEF fluid. Newer ones, with the economy in full swing, will have many advantages, as well, but with insisting on some quality, your budget won't be able to handle it.
As a side note, concerning the year models, our rig is running an 06 engine, mounted in an 06 side radiator chassis.