original or not

[skk]

I am the new owner of a 1974 excella 500 in nice condition. This is my first Airstream. I am curious to know if these campers are worth more in original condition, or if that is not really important for resale? I am thinking about redoing the interior in a more contemporary style, but maybe that is a mistake?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by skk

I am the new owner of a 1974 excella 500 in nice condition. This is my first Airstream. I am curious to know if these campers are worth more in original condition, or if that is not really important for resale? I am thinking about redoing the interior in a more contemporary style, but maybe that is a mistake?

You bought it to please youself, not others.

Andy

[tphan]

My opinion is that if it's in NICE condition, and has a floor-plan you can live with, leave it as is. Resale will likely be better if it's pristine original, and you'll save yourself a lot of headaches and $.

[polarlyse]

Keeping it original ( or close ) is probably the easiest thing to do. But then again it is your trailer so customize it to your personal liking if you want. If you keep your modifications to practical and stay away from extreme I really don't see you impacting the overall value too much. If your trailer is a candidate for long life at some point it will be overhauled anyway. Most important thing is get out and enjoy it.

[RickDavis]

Make it the way you want it and enjoy it. You didn't buy it for the next guy

[aquinob]

Originally Posted by RickDavis

Make it the way you want it and enjoy it. You didn't buy it for the next guy

Absolutely. As long as your changes are done well and you dont go crazy, the resale value wont be affected in any negative way. I would spend most of your initial time looking to make sure that it isn't leaking anywhere and that your floor and frame are in good condition. Too many folks look at the interior with an idea of remodeling without considering that its all for naught if you're frame is rusting away.

Also, if the axles are original, then budget in for a new pair or you will do more damage riding down the road as the whole superstructure will flex much more and will pop the rivets holding the skins on.

[DryFly]

From what I've seen on the forums, most people end up putting more into their trailers than they will likely get back if they ever decide to sell. I know that's my case, but RickDavis said it perfectly. I would say to update as much as you want to make your camping safe, fun, comfortable and enjoyable.

[Argosy 7728]

We have chosen to stay original, except for carpet, upholstery, curtains. Nothing to do with anything, we just like the style.

[Aage]

Originally Posted by skk

I am the new owner of a 1974 excella 500 in nice condition. This is my first Airstream. I am curious to know if these campers are worth more in original condition, or if that is not really important for resale? I am thinking about redoing the interior in a more contemporary style, but maybe that is a mistake?

I agree with Andy: make yourself happy. Either way, redo it or not, there will be buyers, and I don't see how a well-done interior upgrade could harm the value. There are no shortage of those models around, if someone wants an original one.

I would definitely focus on making sure all the appliances are in tip-top shape, and are modern. NOBODY will object to a brand new furnace, toilet, water heater, mattresses, AC unit or a refurbished cooling unit in the refer (fridge). And none of those things are in 'nice' shape if they are original.

THAT will help hold the value up.

[GAStreamin]

I couldn't agree with Andy more!!! Contemporary and modern is a nice way to go!

[MYater]

As everybody else has said, it is your trailer to use as you think you want. Just remember a couple things;

1. Any major refurbishment will take money and/or time.
2. Plan what you want and then implement it.
3. Avoid the "I'll do that part later" thought process (you'll only wish you had done it the first time, and there are enough of those thoughts without intentionally adding to the list)
4. Be prepared for family, friends, and coworkers to have ideas. Some are good and some are not, choose what YOU want.
5. Have fun and enjoy it.

As for down the road, original or not, if it is in good working order, you'll get your best value.