Newbie needing advice!

[ole57]

I am about to enter the world of Airstream. It has been a dream for quite sometime and as a recent retiree I am ready. Planning cross country trip this summer from DC to Seattle. I need help with decision on a trailer. Have settled on a 19-20 ft. Bambi (Flying Cloud or International) and have looked at new and used. I do not mind either but the thought of an older model is appealing. I have found a 2000 model that fits the bill, however it is far away (owner will deliver). Spoke to owner, have seen pictures, believe in great shape and priced right. Have called Airstream Service Center locally and spoke to Manager. He says I should buy and have him do an inspection and assures me he can have in excellent condition quickly and replace old frig/stove, brakes, wiring, propane lines etc. I am confident this would make an awesome trailer and save a lot of money. At same time family is pressuring me to go the new route or slightly used. I like the older model, its basically the same floor plan and even if I spend several thousand on updating still come out way ahead by about $25K vs. buying a newer model. Once I get the trailer to the Seattle area it will stay on the west coast for family use. Mostly small camping runs no more than 1 week at a time.
This is a great interactive community and looking for advice from some folks who have chosen an older vs. new model. I do not think I am looking at a money pit and believe this trailer is in solid condition and good as is. I am willing to make it extra nice with a bit of refurbishing.
One more question, I have been searching all over for trailers and supply is very limited and sell fast. I am not in a major hurry but getting the feeling if you find something should not pass up in hope something similar will show up later! Does spring time bring more trailer to market? Also, not much available on pricing and dealer websites are all over the map on MSRP/Discounts/Fee/Hitches etc. I do not mind paying "fair" price just do not want to overpay! Do Airstreams sell close to list? How much should I offer?
Thanks for any advice. ole57