Well, I've researched and analyzed all data and have come to a crossroads in the decision for my camper purchase. I have a decision to make, and any opinions you have are welcome.
I'm able to get a loan through my credit union for the camper by refinancing equity in one of my automobiles, but it is not near the amount needed for a full featured camper. I have to decide whether to wait a little while and save up for the fully loaded hawk, or get it sooner by ordering a shell.
I could "get by" with a shell, and probably enjoy it, and do upgrades as I get the cash. But will I kick myself in the butt for not waiting about a year and getting the full featured model?
I have some good ideas for a shell, but it will never be as nice or as equipped as a full model from the factory.
Not sure which path to take. I want to get out camping like yesterday, but need to make a smart decision.
If I were to wait and go full Hawk, I'd get side dinette, compressor fridge, furnace, a/c, hot water, awning, dual batteries, jack brackets, solar plug, fantastic fan. It would be somewhere in the neighborhood of $19-20k.
With shell, I'd get furnace, battery, solar plug, a/c, jack brackets, fantastic fan. Somewhere around $11k. I could get started with that, throw some camp chairs and a cooler in there. Down the road I could add a portable fridge and get some seats and cabinet built, but would be without built in water tank, hot water, sink, or stove. I know there's ways around those, but will I get tired of carrying water jugs, heating water on a camp stove, showering with a solar shower, and washing dishes in a pan?
Decisions, decisions.