New to RV world, I have a few questions

[masdrobeda]

Hello,

First of all I am very new to the RV world. I am planning to live in a RV for a few years as I am moving from Boston to L.A.

I am very much between a TT and Motorhome.

I currently own a car.

My budget: ~40K loan (will finance everything)

Option 1:

Sell my car and pay off my car load (I will probably be even on it), buy a truck and a TT (both used)

I have found decent TT for around 20K and also either a newer 1/2 truck (2012, 2013) for around 20K or a 3/4 truck (2009, 2010) for about 20K also

On this option 1 I am looking to get at least 33 foot Trailer and, I was wondering if any 1/2 ton will be able to tow it or I need a 3/4 ton truck after all? I would definitely prefer a 1/2 ton truck because once I get to my destination, I will be using that same truck to drive around, go to work, etc. I think the MPG difference and price difference is quite big between 1/2 and 3/4 truck.

Option 2:

Buy a used Motor Home class A and tow my current car.

On this option 2, I would preferred a diesel engine 35-37 footer (like a bus) kind of motor home. I have found one or two 2001, 2002 for 30K.

I believe option 2 is a easier transaction because I only need to buy one thing and a relatively simple hitch to pull my car and I am good to go. However, is it a good option if I am planning to live in it and perhaps not drive the motor home at all for 1-2 years ?

Too many question to ask but that is pretty much what in my mind at the moment.

I hope I made it clear.

Thanks for the help in advance and please I want to hear what you think!

[beemerphile1]

Where you planning on parking that RV? You're going to pay lot rent (campground fees).

[masdrobeda]

toedtoes wrote:
Seems to me if you're going to finance the entire thing, you're better off spending those monthly payments on rent for an apartment.

You have a good point. However, first of all, I am not sure where I am going to be landing a job so If I am mobile I am in a little better shape.

Second, I have been looking and its hard to find anything under $1500 a month not including that I have to find a place to accept 3 cats.

Third, rent is just money flushing away every month. With a RV, I am actually paying "rent" on something that I ended up owning in a few years (5-10 years). Also, I dont plan to live in the RV for longer than maybe 2-3 years.

Thanks for the feedback

[lanerd]

"IF" your car is 4-down towable, be aware that you will need several items to purchase and install to accomplish that. Without going into details, if you do the install yourself, the cost will run around $2000....if you have someone do it, the cost will run around $3000.

If it is not 4-down towable and is a front wheel drive (FWD) vehicle, you can get a 2-wheel dolly to tow it. Or you can purchase a transmission lube pump If it is rear wheel drive (RWD) and is not 4-down towable, you can get a driveshaft disconnect system. In either case, you can add another $1000 to the equation.

Good luck in whatever you decide.

Ron

[beemerphile1]

A car or truck loan is not an issue but you may find financing a used TT or MH to be difficult. Also, after taking out one loan the odds of getting the second loan goes down.

I have always looked at it like this, a MH is great for moving frequently while a TT is best if going to be parked in one spot for a while. Of course, opinions vary.

[MarkTwain]

masdrobeda wrote:
Hello,

First of all I am very new to the RV world. I am planning to live in a RV for a few years as I am moving from Boston to L.A.

I am very much between a TT and Motorhome.

I currently own a car.

My budget: ~40K loan (will finance everything)

Option 1:

Sell my car and pay off my car load (I will probably be even on it), buy a truck and a TT (both used)

I have found decent TT for around 20K and also either a newer 1/2 truck (2012, 2013) for around 20K or a 3/4 truck (2009, 2010) for about 20K also

33' trailer will need at least a 3/4 ton diesel truck but ideally a 1 ton truck. The difference in ride comfort is minimal.

On this option 1 I am looking to get at least 33 foot Trailer and, I was wondering if any 1/2 ton will be able to tow it or I need a 3/4 ton truck after all? I would definitely prefer a 1/2 ton truck because once I get to my destination, I will be using that same truck to drive around, go to work, etc. I think the MPG difference and price difference is quite big between 1/2 and 3/4 truck.

Milage is about the same.

Option 2:

Buy a used Motor Home class A and tow my current car.

On this option 2, I would preferred a diesel engine 35-37 footer (like a bus) kind of motor home. I have found one or two 2001, 2002 for 30K.

Any RV over 10 yrs. could end up being a "$$$ hole" to keep it maintained. Do not buy a 10 yr. old RV without taking it to your mechanic to check everything out. $200 well spent so you know how much you have to spend to get it on the road i.e. Tires along can be as much as $300 or more.

I believe option 2 is a easier transaction because I only need to buy one thing and a relatively simple hitch to pull my car and I am good to go. However, is it a good option if I am planning to live in it and perhaps not drive the motor home at all for 1-2 years ?

Leaving a Motor Home sitting for 1 to 2 yrs. not the best way to keep up good maintenance.



Too many question to ask but that is pretty much what in my mind at the moment.

I hope I made it clear.

Thanks for the help in advance and please I want to hear what you think!

[BizmarksMom]

If your car is flat towable, I'd go with the motorhome.

If you decide to go with the trailer option, a 1/2 ton truck is not going to happily handle a 33' trailer. You're better off going with the 3/4 ton.

[Lwiddis]

I am concerned that you will lock yourself into a lifestyle you have never experienced....all financed.

[DownTheAvenue]

Before you decide on option 2, make sure you can tow your car. Some vehicles can only be towed on a dolly or trailer. Also, be sure to research the expense associated with towing your vehicle. It can be expensive.

[toedtoes]

Seems to me if you're going to finance the entire thing, you're better off spending those monthly payments on rent for an apartment.