For fun my young bride and I would spend our Saturday afternoon's browsing the local RV dealers in Yuma, AZ when I was a young Marine Sgt...that was 1995...we bought our first Lance in 2009 and out second Lance (current one) this year when I returned from Afghanistan. So it took us about 15 years which was due in part to the numerous trips the government saw for to send me on...and partially due to the wonderful paycheck they pay me every month:)!
First off you'll never find the perfect camper...you need to ask you what are the most important things to you and then make a conscious decision on what you will give up to have something else. Because we still have small children we felt it was important to start with a new camper for sanitation purposes (DW felt better about kids crawling in dust she knew vice didn't know). There are many brands out there and you should really invest a trip to a well stocked dealer that carries multiple brands so you can compare. The other major issue you have to face is the truck you plan to carry camper on...long or short bed? Dually or SRW? Diesel or gas? These factors will also drive you towards and away from certain campers.
Lastly...make an honest assessment on how long you will keep it! We bought a rig that we plan to keep for a long time as we think ours is perfect for our requirements. Best of luck and keep asking questions...Truck Campers are some of the most friendly folks you'll meet...you might also consider attending a TC rally and seeing different rigs and talking to folks!
