North Trail 24 BHS vs Apex 245 BHS vs other similar

We have that floor plan in Shadow Cruiser 240BHS. It's a year old and we love it. Seems to be built pretty well. Things we liked over the North Trail is the awning light is at the trailer instead of at the awning so it can be used without deploying the awning. Outdoor kitchen is on a metal drawer instead of wood so it's holding up to the elements better. No outdoor shower but it has a spray port with water hose. Also the front storage is larger. The bed is a full queen and we replaced the camper mattress with the one out of home bedroom due to getting a new home mattress. Only thing I added a power tongue jack and larger grab handle at the entry door.

We paid about $21.5k before taxes with no extra fees. Not a steal but an alright price at the time. I've seen them listed for about that now. Give the Shadow Cruisers a look.

Bought our NT 7 years ago and continue to make great family memories. We've had issue, but all due to our own use and abuse. My original plan was to keep it 3-5 years. However, even after getting a more capable tow vehicle, the current TT meets all of our needs while losing very little depreciation. I highly recommend the brand.

Caliber equipment that I have in mine and also really like on a daily basis:
Solid Surface Counters
Power stabilizer jacks
power tongue jack

I don't have the other equipment in today's Caliber Edition and I do not know how much cost it adds, but I don't see anything I wouldn't like to try.

You seem pretty well set on what you are looking for so the only suggestions I could make would be that the floorplan your describing is one that basically every manufacturer offers, Keystones Outback 255UBH for example is very similar. The manufacturers all offer a range of models from more basic, to more deluxe, and pricings follow those design levels. The thing you posted initially that I thought was great was that you mentioned your budget, and specified "out the door"
Visit as many dealers as practical for you, go to a show if possible, but before getting in too deep on your discussions ask about their "fees" and add on services. I was looking at a unit , just shopping really, and the G/F really liked a unit, was offered with a price that appeared most reasonable, 23k, and it met our requirements, quality was not quite what I wanted, but it seemed livable. we offered to make a deal at only $1200 under their "sale price" which was readily accepted. Then came their paperwork.
Shipping $1400.00
Dealer prep $1500.00
Documentation fee $399.00
I started to protest and they tried to tell me that some of these were state mandated, I used to have a used car dealer license, and knew it was untrue,
Get all their additional "Fees", "service add-ons", and pricing policies up front, and if they dont want to go over that first, consider another dealership. There are some that are very up front and open about their policies, and are proud of that, others,,,,, not so much.
Also consider when possible buying from a small dealer, Local businesses that have become established in an area have demonstrated some good faith over time, or they wouldnt be there, and talking to the owner or a family member is easier when resolution of problems becomes a need. Seldom is the big nationwide chain abel to adjust to your needs as well as the smaller local operation.
Good luck in your search.