Thanks for the feedback everyone.
Seems that the most frequent question raised here is the validity of the gross weight of this 25ft. Yes, this is an estimation based on the shortest FW models built by New Horizon and DRV. If I choose to go this path, this FW will be completely custom built with full-timing in mind. The goal here is to build a smallest possible FW that can be used for full-timing for us while still remain as friendly to smaller National Park camping sites as possible. We are both very small, so we don't need much space. (I measure 5'5", DW 5'1". Our combined weight is only around 250lb).
New Horizon's 30ft (bumper to hitch) has a dry weight of 12.5k, gross much higher, and this is only a 2 slider model. In my possible scenario, I plan to build a 3 slider 25ft model jam packed inside, including 6+ batteries and 1000+w of solar panels. It will also carry a generator although I hope I don't use that much. As much interior storage as I can fit and it will have a combo washer/dryer unit. It will also feature a 60-inch TV and a residential fridge. I've already built a sample floor plan and will be talking it to New Horizon about the feasibility of building it during the Florida RV show. I also talked to another custom builder, and they say it is possible. But I like the reputation of New Horizon.
As for the possibility of upgrading to a new FW in the future, that won't happen, at least not to a bigger unit. I definitely don't want to buy a truck right now with the mind set of eventually upgrading the FW. If I do upgrade, it will be a similar size but with a improved feature. I'm hoping that a SRW 1t truck will handle this type of FW comfortably, and I can also carry an aux fuel tank in the bed for some additional range/flexibility. Since this will be fully customized, I can achieve the 20% hitch weight when properly loaded, so it will not be head-heavy like DRV units.
Obviously, my budget is not unlimited but my research started from a Newmar/Tiffin Diesel pusher with tag axle, so relatively speaking, this scenario is much cheaper.
We've been to 5 RV shows now, looked at every single type of RVs in there. We were even almost convinced that we could do full-timing in a 25ft B+ unit built by Leisure Travel, so seriously, we don't need a 43ft MH or a 40ft FW for our full-timing needs...
I have a pretty good handle on the capability of each types of trucks ON PAPER but I've never towed and from what I read on this forum, what's on paper doesn't always appear to translate to smooth experience in reality so I'm looking to get more feedback from those who are experienced in towing...
