Having a personal airstream parked in the backyard is not everyone’s game. Airstreams always make their owners feel special on the road. Whether you want to buy a new or renovate an old airstream, you need a lot of money as you will have to pay your airstream classic appraiser and other renovation charges.
On the other hand, nothing can match the levels of pride which you will achieve and feel while driving the restored vintage appraiser on the road. There are also various limitations that you will have to tackle while restoring a classic airstream.
We will cover all the necessary facts associated with airstream classic appraisers and various other interesting facts associated with vintage airstreams. Stay tuned to find out whether it is a smart move to invest in vintage airstreams. Also, we will discuss California’s most popular airstream classic appraiser in the end.
Airstream classic appraiser – factors to consider before investing in a vintage airstream
1: Time is the most valuable asset:
The first and foremost factor to consider while buying a vintage airstream is how much time you have to restore the old airstream. If you buy a classic airstream from the 1970s, it might demand 8-12 restorations before getting on-road.
On the other hand, you can start driving, travel, and explore your favorite destinations once you purchase a new airstream. One thing you will have to keep in mind about new airstreams is they start depreciating in value once they are out of the dealer’s showroom. Shopping for new airstreams is quite similar to shopping for new cars as their value depreciates with time.
Whereas you will find vintage airstreams for an affordable range of prices, and you will have to spend a few thousand dollars on restoration and boom, there are chances that you might gain ten times of the overall cost spent on the airstream.
2. Budget to restore vintage airstream:
Although it is not the first factor limiting your purchase, it is one of the most important factors, a point of debate between new Vs old or classic airstreams. New airstreams can cost you around 48,000 USD to 175,000 USD based on the selection and customization options. In the meantime, you can find a used airstream for 10,000 USD, excluding the restoration cost and the cost of replacing old parts. Moreover, you will have to also spend on maintenance as you have to maintain the old airstream in the best condition to ensure that it gets a good resale value.
3. Labor to restore vintage airstream:
Buying a vintage airstream under 10,000 USD is a smart move, but you will also have to ensure how much work you can take on your shoulders and how many people you will need to finish the job quickly.
The six main areas where you will have to divide your work are,
Carpentry,
Painting,
Electrical,
Gas,
Plumbing, and
Metalwork.
It is highly recommended to sit with your team and plan a design and layout that is your vehicle’s best idea. In addition to all the activities mentioned above, you will have to also set aside and polish the aluminum body of the airstream after removing the dents and scratches from the metal body.
4. The place to finish the project:
Once you have penned down all the necessary details associated with the project, you will have to arrange an enclosed place to finish your project. During the restoration process, you will have to open the airstream; hence you cannot perform it in the open as unpleasant weather can destroy vital electrical equipment.=
If you have a spacious backyard, covering it with tend is all you need to complete the restoration process. Keep in mind the restoration process is long term; hence ensure that none of your kids or pets can have access to the region as it can get them severely injured. If you are taking help from a mechanic, you can ask them for space at their garage.
5. Classic airstream warranty:
A warranty is one of the most valuable documents associated with an investment like an airstream. The majority of new airstreams have a warranty of 2 years. On the other hand, you are not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty when you buy a vintage airstream.
The manufacturer’s warranty covers defective materials and parts which can be easily replaced without additional charges. At the same time, you will be responsible for all the maintenance repairs when you restore a classic airstream. The only warranty you can get for a classic airstream is the warranty of parts you add inside the airstream. You will have to check with the dealer whether you have to pay for the warranty or free.
6. Dealing with vintage airstream parts:
One of the prominent aspects of classic airstream which haunts all the buyers is finding their parts can be expensive and difficult. However, you stay on the safer side when you buy a classic airstream from popular brands still active in the automobile market. One of the best ways to get parts for vintage airstreams is to join a fleet of classic airstreams as the community can help you find the right information about dealers and manufacturers.
7. Why airstream classic appraiser for insurance?
Well, getting insurance for a customized airstream is not an easy job. You will have to take help from an airstream classic appraiser who will raise an appraisal certificate to provide an accurate valuation of the vehicle. Professional appraisers can also help you negotiate with insurance companies at the claim; perhaps you will have to pay them for their service.
Classic airstream buying guide:
As mentioned above, there are so many things that you will have to look after when buying a classic airstream. Positively, you are not an expert in dealing with airstream; hence you have to improve your knowledge before stepping into the market. We have mentioned some useful tips for all rookies who want to invest in a classic airstream for summer camping.
1. Don’t show up until you get all the information about the airstream:
A common mistake majority of airstream owners make is they show up to an unprepared classic airstream. We recommend not to showcase interest in an airstream about which you are unsure or miss out on model or make.
Airstreams made before 1973 don’t have grey water tanks and leak a lot of water to the ground. Undoubtedly, no RV park or ground would be happy to allow parking to an airstream that drains water and spoils the ground. The only thing you can do to minimize the damage is by carrying a wastewater collection container.
Keep in mind it is your responsibility to empty the wastewater container, which can be frustrating when you are out for a trip with your family.
2. Never commit to a single airstream:
Well, it is one of the most difficult trades to master, but you will have to learn it to ensure that you get a classic airstream that is under your budget and in the best condition. You have to also check for prices about the same airstream or model from different dealers.
There are also various websites on the internet where you can check airstream pricing and features. You have to also understand the difference between a running airstream which is well and good & one in which you will have to invest and restore.
3. Keep Your Mind Crystal Clear:
A common mistake majority of buyers make they lack knowledge about classic airstreams; hence they fear asking questions. In most cases, vintage airstream sellers sell an old airstream of their grandfather, father, or cousin.
On the other hand, there are two types of buyers: ignorant and knowledgeable. The one who knows about the airstream will try to accumulate and verify as much information as possible before investing in the vehicle. At the same time, ignorant buyers will never worry about the situation but later regret their purchase. It’s your choice to be fearless and regret later or take every step with utmost care.
4. Check Every Nook And Corner Of The Airstream:
Although you are not an expert on airstreams, you are clever enough to use your basic knowledge to check for restorable and permanent damage to the vehicle. Start with the exteriors and check for aluminum damage which can be very expensive to repair. Also, never invest in an airstream that keeps on draining water. Once your inspection is complete, sit for a while and pen down all the changes before finalizing a fair price to the seller.
All the airstream as mentioned above inspection stuff is not your job. Are we correct? If yes, leave all your inspection queries to Benchmark Auto Appraisers LLC, United States’ leading automobile appraisal service provider. From heavy equipment to trucks and RVs to cars, they cover all vehicles and are also USPAP certified. Book your free consultation right now at 1-877-888-6113.
Daniel “Dan” Jendrowski
Certified Public Auto Appraiser Diminish Value Experts B.C.A.A. & I.A.C.P.
For FREE Consultation with an expert Airstream Classic Appraiser, call
