Elddis or bailey? Looking to buy 2000-2001 2 berth

[cypher007]

Noob alert. Looking to buy first van don’t want to spend a fortune as will only use it a few times a year.

Seen a 2000 elddis ex2000 in a dealer for £2000 and a bailey pageant imperial 2001 private for £2495. Which brand is better?

Not looking for the ultimate van just something that will last a few years, small, light for towing, and dry.

 

[otherclive]

At that age there’s nothing between them. Make sure any that you consider buying has a recent damp test report. There may well be some damp so if there is get an estimate fir repairs. Use a mobile technician if required to check it out. Go on condition. Has it been well looked after. When was it last serviced and by whom. How old are the tyres any older than five years and they would be up for changing. Do all the systems work? Fridge, cooker, gas, heating, water, lights etc. Don’t be afraid to walk away if you are uncertain. You get better protection if you buy trade than private but you may pay more.

 

[Damian]

Service record is important !!!! along with recent damp report.

Whatever you are buying ask specifically if there is any damp, or has been but repaired in the past.

Insist on seeing every single item of equipment actually working, do NOT accept anyone just saying everything works, it often does not.

If you want to be as sure as you can, get a AWS engineer to do a pre purchase inspection https://approvedworkshops.co.uk/find-approved-workshop

 

[Smokey53]

Only just seen you entry and probably have bought one all ready.
I note through experience, make sure that the tyres are good. Our first caravan had the original tyres fitted, which were 11 years old.
When I changed them, it totally transformed the towing, as there was some flexibility in the side walls.
There will never be the 'perfect' caravan whether you buy new or secondhand. I would guess though the older vans are built better than the new ones.
Good luck and Happy caravnning.
PS Bet you get the bug and end up upgrading?
More advise - If you need a bulb, don't go to a caravan sales centre. 'Lets just look at some caravans whilst we are here'!!! Ahhhh!!!!!

 

[Raywood]

Have to agree that at that age there is nothing to choose between the makes at that age, condition is everything.
Basicaly you do need to be sure there is no damp and a mobile engineer will probably do that for about £50, but if you want it checked further it will cost more.
If buying privately you need to be careful to make sure the seller does own the caravan. Get the serial number and check it with HPI and CRiS to see if it shows up as on HP or stolen. If you cannot get the number then avoid it. Without the number you cannot insure it either.
See the caravan at the owners address to make sure they are who they say they are. This is a bit like buying a car from a private seller.
Check the caravan thoroughly to make sure everything works and that it is in decent condition. If you know anyone who knows about caravans taker them with you to help.