Looking for first DP

[YakFishMo]

We have been RVers for several years starting with a 30 foot bumper pull and currently with a 40 foot 5th wheel. We started full timing in July of this year after I retired. My DW retired 9 months before me. So, having done the prerequisite research and believing a 5th wheel and dually truck would suit us best, we are second guessing that decision. It's actually more than second guessing. My DW has some health issues and the stairs to the bathroom and bedroom are causing her problems. It also doesn't help that she is afraid to drive the dually because it is so big. Climbing the steps to a MH once or twice a day would not be a problem. Once inside, everything can be accessed without steps. So, we have started the research process all over again. Like others, we have the champagne taste and beer budget! I have a meeting set up with my financial advisor so I can determine what I can really afford to do. We are looking for a used DP. We are used to a lot of room and have several "must haves" and several "nice to haves". On the "must haves" list we need a king size bed, separate washer and dryer, large refrigerator (preferably residential style), double pane glass, two 15K AC units (preferably heat pumps), large kitchen sink, good counter space, television viewing without turning your head. The "nice to haves" are: dishwasher, 1 1/2 baths, residential refrigerator, roller shades and a large LED TV opposite the sofa.
So, the search begins. We have looked at our local dealer and found nothing. However, we looked at a couple of Newmar coaches and know that Newmar would be a good choice for us. We would rather get an older quality coach than a newer low quality coach. That said, our short list is Newmar, Tiffin, Entegra, Monico, Holiday Rambler and American.
I am very capable of doing many repairs myself. I have extensive knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, electrical, electronic, refrigeration/HVAC and gas appliances. I wouldn't attempt to rebuild a cummins engine, but most other repairs on an RV are not beyond my capabilities, so I'm comfortable with buying a used coach.
Does anyone see anything wrong with my thought process so far? Any ideas, suggestions, etc would be appreciated. Hopefully, if all goes well, I'll be posting here as a MH owner soon!
__________________

[Deano56]

I have been slowly looking for a coach like you are wanting but recent health issues are putting a damper on this for me, at least for a while. Anyways, I liked Newmar and to tell the truth, they were at the top of my list. I later have considered that Monaco is a better value than any that you have listed, their quality is very good and there fitment of many things is tight and precise and woodworking is very quality as is Beaver. Those would be my 2 choices above the others. Of course Newell and Prevost are way up there but not practical for my budget, no slideouts in my price range.

[lj2654]

Don't forget to check out the Beaver Coaches....there are a lot of older ones out there and some super deals...I know of a couple if interested.....