Complete Newbie to TTs Here. First-time Buyer Advice

So you've been warned about the weight, do your homework, but don't despair.

-Where do you plan to camp most of the time? (state parks, backwoods/off-grid, or more resort-style).

-What activities do you enjoy while camping? (do you need space for gear? bikes, kayaks, etc.).

-Do you envision cooking outside mostly, (i.e. are you moving up from a tent)?

Make choices based on reality, don't avoid used if it's a good fit and passes inspection. Hire a local RV tech to do a pre-purchase inspection on your behalf.

With the existing tow vehicle, resist the urge to get as big a trailer as you can on paper. Bigger "ultra-lite" often translates to ultra easy to damage, or more fragile construction. With 3 kids, it wouldn't hurt to have a tough trailer.

Anyhow, take a look at this, a big difference in toughness and quality vs. what you've mentioned.
Northwood Nash 22H

22H walk through

Found a new 2017 not too far from you. Take a long hard look at this before you pull the trigger on the others.
2017 Nash 22H

The 7K GVWR is high in part due to the heavy frame and suspension, so don't let that throw you. The "full featured" dry weight of 4,727 is remarkably close to reality vs most manufacturers.

With our family of 6, most of the time the kids stayed outside, and the camper was just that, a base camp, a place to sleep, change, re-group. We most always cook outside anyway.

We couldn't find anything in budget or in the market to suit us so we converted a cargo trailer. If you're handy with building, give it a look. Keep in mind we went from two tents, and our activities were hiking, biking, paddling, so we needed a toy hauler and a camper in one. Here's ours for an idea:
7x16 Cargo Camper Conversion
Here it is unloaded and setup with our bunkhouse. Us old folks use a Serta click-clack sofa in the front of the trailer.


Welcome to the madness, and good luck.