What to look for/avoid...

[Strider]

Hello everyone.

I currently live in a Casita 17'. Just started teaching again )k-12) out of necessity. Went through a divorce and waiting for the final judgement.
I am totally burned out from this job. I can barely make it through the day.

I am an artist, and want to be able to travel when needed. Be able to work remotely also.
Would like to eventually get a home base: a little 1/1 cabin would be fine in a rural area, with a garage as a studio.
I am 58 so the 30 year mortgage thing is not appealing.
I have no kids, no family.

The Casita is way too small and I bought it new under duress. Bad decision in a very stressful time (to avoid physical and emotional abuse, and to protect my dogs also)
Still owe 33K on it.
Just a nightmare situation.

Have been looking at used RVs online, mainly RV trader.
It would have to be something used and 20k or under. My credit is shot. Even considering bankruptcy and turning in the Caista if I can't sell it.
I have seen some old ones for even $5000.

My main concern is that the engine and transmission are still good, and no leaks.

The older ones have an advantage, I think, of being simpler, and even if an engine rebuild or swap is necessary, a simple Chevy V8 is not like these newer engines. But then there are other issues, of course, with age.

But some of these I saw look pretty good:

1989 Fleetwood JAMBOREE 26FT for $7,000​

1997 Fleetwood Pace Arrow 30 34J for $5,000​

2000 Coachmen LEPRECHAUN 305MB for $6,000​

I may be able to go up to about $15,000.

Any advice on models/years that are best? What to look for avoid?

Thanks

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Wow! I am being inundated by educators. The short FR I am on has had 4 retired/subs/educators. I'm seeing subing as a much more free option. One is a professor at ASU. Two are subs, one retired educator. All options seem sound as lifestyle.

Least you plan on boondocking, none of your picks consider the 15 year rule.

The first rule of the universe, is what you send out is what you receive. Let me explain:

If you want something, that is what you ask for. If you look at a compromise, than that is what you are asking for!
It is better to ask for what makes you happy, because, well, that is what will make you happy!!!

That my friend is known as the principal of quality manifestation. So take the time it takes to assemble your "love" list, and stop seeking compromise. In the end you will love what you get!

 

[Holdmybeer]

If your credit is shot, as you say, you're not going to qualify for a prime 30 year mortgage anyway and sub-prime will only compound your difficulties. Sounds like you're underwater on the Casita so if you sell it you'd have to be good for the gap ( the difference in the selling price and the principle). Buying a 25 or 30 year old MH is not likely a solution to your problems and would in fact likely make them worse. You may need to hang on to the devil you know.