New Owner needs advice on maintaining value versus remodel/update

[tamisager]

I just bought a 74 Argosy 24. Although inside it is almost perfect, the outside paint has some scratches on the top, I am not too fond of the green countertops or the dated interior. It is white on the outside and I was thinking about painting it or stripping it. I also want to update the interior but am hesitant because I don't want to decrease the value. It came with everything from the dealership including manuals, Bill of sale, etc. I don't know what the value currently is but when I pulled the dirty thing into my driveway last night, my neighbor offered me three times what I paid for it, as it set. I just finished washing it and cleaning it up and it is night and day difference. My question is, should I update with granite, hardwood floors, New cabinets, or would that decrease the value? I know they are hard to find in their original state but let's face it, the 70's, although cool, were not known for great decorating style...lol

[dkrug]

Make sure everything is safely functional and decorate to your heart's content. What good is it if you cringe at the outdated decor every time you step inside?
YMMV

[GeocamperAS]

I asked the same question when I bought my 28'. I was told there is a buyer for it either way. Those that want original and those that want newer interior.
I would tend to think there are more people out there that would want updated counters, etc. Just what you are thinking.
If you are planing to keep it and use it for a long time, make it what you want.
Take a look at my pictures. I gutted mine to replace the rotted floor. So I decided to change the layout to fit our needs. Rear queen center bath vs rear bath center twins. (we are not at the separate bed stage yet).
And welcome to Argosy owenship.

[mimiandrews]

Consider the weight when you remodel. Granite countertops look great in houses, but the additional load on the trailer's structure and running gear is not good. These trailers were built to be light.

[SmokelessJoe]

A 70's ARGOSY isn't like a 50's Airstream, worth preservation. Nothing too charming about all that fake pressed wood veneer, anodized aluminum and shag rugs, not to mention the colours.

Take a look what I did with my 1976:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f227...ml#post1472798

52 pages there so a long read but if you are interested you can see what can be done.

[SteveSueMac]

Have you sold that yet? I really wish I won the lottery - I'd snag that rig up in a heartbeat!! :-)

Really beautiful work and so creative!!!

[TG Twinkie]

I would not go with granite counter tops.
I would and did update the '70's (cheap) looking interior.
I also was not concerned a great deal about the additional weight I added by using maple and oak and hickory for the cabinetry in the galley and dinette. Since the unit, loaded and ready for travel weighs 5,500. Still 700 pounds under the GVWR.
As for the minor amount of additional weight when towing and fuel mileage.. I don't concern myself with it.
I would not be happy opening the door of the coach and stepping back 44 years to cheap panelling and extruded aluminum.
I say. Do what works for you.

[tamisager]

Smokelessjoe, I came across your's when I was deciding whether or not to buy mine. It is very beautiful. I started on it today. Ripped out all the carpet and such. I am painting the outside somewhat like your's but burgundy and off white. You are actually the reason I decided to buy mine. I was truly inspired after seeing what you did. That and I got it for one heck of a bargain considering the condition. So with that being said, I figure that I can afford to dress it up a bit. Thanks everyone for your responses!! Tami

[SmokelessJoe]

SteveSueMac,

Keeping buying those lottery tickets, eh?

I get an enquirey every other day, dozens ans dozens by now, but no serious offfers yet.

Unless a new owner shows up before then I am taking the rig to CALIFORNIA for the winter.

[SteveSueMac]

Originally Posted by SmokelessJoe

SteveSueMac,

Keeping buying those lottery tickets, eh?

I get an enquirey every other day, dozens ans dozens by now, but no serious offfers yet.

Unless a new owner shows up before then I am taking the rig to CALIFORNIA for the winter.

Unfortunately, your odds of winning the lottery are almost exactly the same whether or not you buy a ticket :-)

Comparing the cost of say a brand new 25-27' Airstream (which wouldn't have the split AC and beautiful interior you've done with your Argosy) AND a tow vehicle PLUS a Mini on top of all that - its really an outstanding package deal. But I'm already in on the new AS and tow vehicle so unless the statistics of lottery play change in my favor, I'm out. :-(

Good luck though. I really do admire your rig a lot!!!! Beautiful work!!