Motor homes do not do well sitting for long periods of time. Plus they have a drive train that needs service from time to time, even when sitting. Trailers whether a tow behind (TT) or a fifth wheel (fiver) require much more of a tow vehicle to move them down the road. But with only one drive train to deal with cost can be substantially less than a MH. Add the plane fact that foot for foot a TT or fiver offers more living space. Remember that with a MH there is a certain amount of space taken up by drivers compartment. Then there is dollar value. You get more SQ FT of living space for a given dollars with a TT or fiver. Down side, a TT has the least amount of storage, with a MH generally having the most. Fivers are in between somewhere.
So, to sum up. Go shopping look at each style comparing the pluses and minuses of each for your self. Once you have decided on a type, then start shopping for a particular RV that,fits within your budget.
BTW buying used and then going full timing may not be the most prudent approach. As an RV ages maintenance costs go up. Rubber roofs generally are done by 12-15 years old. So your hypothetical 2000 model RV will be at the end of its roof life. Replacement costs can run 100-150 dollars a foot. Appliances wear put, and if previous owners have not kept up with maintenance leaks could have already killed your choice. There is nothing wrong going used, but you would be wise to start your search in the 3-7 year old RV's or plan to upgrade within a couple pf years.
