Motorhomes are not really economical. They cost a lot when bought new with all of the taxes, insurance and DMV charges and rather drastic depreciation. Think of a box truck converted into a small apartment on wheels, full of appliances and electro-mechanical devices, holding tanks and plumbing. Appliances and air conditioning units may need repairs/replacements when 10 years old.If you want to buy an old 70's or 80's rig intelligently, you'll need to know what problems to look for and/or get a professional truck mechanic and an RV repair shop to inspect for problems and give you independent estimate for parts and labor and approximately how long repairs will take. RV tires are a major cost item. They become unsafe and may fail with loss of control and damage to the underside after some four+ years of sitting mostly parked. Tires have date codes imprinted on one or both sides. If you buy an old rig and have plumbing, electrical, appliance, and many other DIY skills, tools, workspace, and time and help buying an old rig for $5000+ may be cost-effective. Older rigs may have carbureted engines and poor engine cooling systems that have problems pulling long grades and high altitudes on a hot day. If you must pay somebody for repairs, upgrades and maintenance, it is easy too invest more in repairs than the rig can re-sell for. Generally I would advise looking for a "perfect" three to five year old rig, approximately 27+ feet long with rear bedroom and RV queen sized for the older folks and you will have to be in good enough condition to climb into and out of the overhead bed and/or convertible sofa/dinette bed. Slides are nice but can have mechanical problems. Advise taking the whole bunch when looking at new and used rigs and simulate use of the bathroom, bedroom, watching TV, eating, and sleeping including set up and take down routines. After doing your homework, ask yourselves if you really want to get into RV'ing. It takes preparation, effort to drive, effort to set up and take down at campsites, and effort to clean the rig and put stuff away when you come home, ready for the next trip. There is also washing the rig, sanitizing water tanks, and regular engine maintenance. RV'ing is not for everyone, nor is boating, flying, or other expensive pastimes.
When/if you think you know what you want, maybe rent a similar rig with similar floorplan and try RV'ing before you buy. It's expensive but renting could help prevent your making an expensive mistake.
