I would suggest you watch all the details. Not all class A Diesel pushers haul 10K lbs. I would suggest writing a standard list of questions and start there before any tour of a RV. The list should cover all the key items you want. If you want that Fiberglass roof, then that is a question. Same with pulling 10K lbs. You can also get with most Manufacturers with the Vin to see what was shipped. I found one that the guy took out the basement drawer, the kitchenette table and a few other items.
I went with a Diesel pusher not just because of the engine. You get a better suspension and I think better unit (of course use your own judgement as each unit can be different or treated different). You mention Forest River Berkshire, and that is what I bought via a broker. While it was nice looking at almost the same unit from an owner, I got a fireplace, TV on the side, better layout, and the basement drawer for the same price and a year newer. Once you find one you like, well Google and see if there's another one nearby. I drove 20K miles looking for a boat or Motorhome the summer of 2020 while gas was cheap. Almost bought a 42 ft diesel trawler in Norther MI and got the RV in lower MI by Ann Arbor. I looked at a RV and boat in Pensacola and Brunswick GA. A bit extreme, but it got me out of the apartment.
The engine issues I did not find, so not sure the cause. That being said, oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze all have a life span, so I changed them the first winter I had it. Build your own baseline. While I changed the serpentine belt and idler pulley, this past spring as I started up the AC unit froze due to these little BBs in the lines. That became a real issue cause the connector broke off with part of the housing. In speaking with the AC guy, there is a cleaning that should be done every 5 years or so. They say at 6-years tires should be replaced, and I had 7 on the front till I replaced this summer, and about to change the 4 rear tires. I have replaced 3 out of the 4 toppers and will finish the last one next winter. By being a boater, I found you have to be proactive and everything has a lifespan. You can replace it first, or wait till you are broken down on the side of the road, or as you want to pull out of the campground. Life is full of choices.
One person mentioned they don't use it much. I would suggest consider how you will use it. I keep mine in a monthly site and drive there typically Thursday night work remotely Friday and Monday, then drive back on Monday night. I get to enjoy it much more than most. Find what works for you.
Like buying a home, doesn't hurt to get preapproved for financing. Todays rates might be why you are seeing the slowdown, and might also make you reconsider.
Best of luck in your journey, just don't over think it and make yourself miss one, but get one you really want.
Dave
