I'm all for research and planning, but your starting now - 4 - 5 years before planning on a purchase? Lots of things change in that long of a time period.
My advice would be to understand the capibilities of your tow vechile - focus on payload before tow capacity. Know what things subtract from your payload. This may have been mentioned - I didn't read all the responses. Post a picture of the sticker in the doorjamb and folks will be able to comment.
Renting is a good idea - here is a great website to help you find a rental - its called
RVShare. I searched in Virginia and found lots of rentals.
Above all, avoid advice from sales persons - know how to determine for yourself what works safely.
Good luck and happy camping.
