Thanyou for sharing that, it's certainly opened my eyes. I've been looking for a van to convert and same as you,mega high miles, major work to do, or scammers. Looks like I won't be traveling anytime soon. My question is will there ridiculous prices come back down?
Great vid. I also talked to a guy last year and he told me that Jeff bezzos of Amazon bought 25,000 Mercedes Sprinters and the same number of fords. That left his builder waiting for over a year to get his vans delivered.
I also can't help thinking the surge in prices of used vans was because of a surge in self builders as a result of the UK holiday parks ripping people off when we couldn't travel abroad during the pandemic. That pricing policy for holiday parks has not been changed since.
What a great service Greg provides to honest folks! Greg, as keep looking, I'd be interested in more videos like this. It's the most important part of the project (by far) pricewise, so sharing what you learn will be much appreciated as people make decisions. For example, I've been considering French vans like the Peugeot Boxer and Renault Master and would be interested in knowing how those compare with the Fiat Ducato
Hi Greg, I bought my van this time last year. The same spec, age and (more) miles is now 8k more from the same dealer! Unbelievable! Best of luck because it seems like the only way to get a fair price is to know someone in the trades/dealer networks.
OMG finally! I'm so happy someone explained me clearly why it is so difficult to get these days!!! Thank you Greg! I'm planing to buy a van next year or 2024, I hope so. I will always follow you up with this news and please share us more! All of your videos are increadibly informative! What a great work! Cheers!
It's not just vans. I've an Auto-sleeper MH on a Peugeot Boxer and I've been offered £8000 more than I paid for it in 2019. Also got an electric car which is worth more than I paid for it 2 years ago - the world's gone mad. Good luck with your project.
@@GregVirgoe well I have to say I am loving going back through your content after discovering you the other day. I bought a transit van a month or so ago and have spent my spare time learning to weld so I can patch up the cheese grater rear floor and wheel arches. I'm now at the stage where I can start with insulation and subfloor, I put in the roof fan/vent a couple of days ago with no leaks yet. Just waiting on the dc to dc mppt to arrive and I can try to figure out how to fit unistrut to my mk 6 roof with zero threaded inserts available... 🤔 Loving your budget build series so far!
@Greg Virgo Hi Greg glad to see you back doing another conversion. I have been a subscriber to your channel right from the beginning of your very first build. I don't know why but YT have never notified me of this video the only way I found out you were planning a new budget build was when I came across your other video of you and the Mrs picking up the MWB Ducato. I checked and I was still Subscribed and all notifications on. I am currently looking for a van like yours to convert myself so will be following your build with interest
RUclips does some strange things at time and often has not sent out notifications. But I’m glad you found it and there will be regular weekly updates from now on 👍🏼😃
I came across that scam where they ask you to pay up front, then they will deliver later. When I investigated, it turned out that they didn't have a base or premises. You have to be really careful at the moment, with private sales, make sure it matches the address, easy to do on line. Great vid old boy anyway. 😁👍
ooooo a family of mine almost got scammed themselves found out the email wasn’t legit the seller also wanted them to give them the money first and said they’d “ship” the vehicle to them
Hi Greg, Mark here. I work in the fleet industry, just recently we’ve have notifications from leading LCV Manufacturers that they have closed the order books for new orders for the foreseeable as they’ve already probably got more orders banked than what they can manufacture. That means in the next few months there will be some very disappointed people who have ordered new vans and manufactures can’t fulfil the orders!
Some of the blame rest’s with you Greg 😜there’s a load of half finished camper conversions up and down the country thanks to your great channel 🤣🤣 Can’t get decent donor vans for love nor money.. Keep the videos coming 👍
Another great informative video Greg. I can say the same situation that you have in the UK re vehicle sales is also an issue here in Australia. In particular the sale of second-hand dual-cab utilities has gone nuts. I'm glad I took delivery of my own van brand new in February 2020 and escaped the supply issues you speak of. Good luck with the new van and thanks for your reply to my message the other day.
Admiration big time to you Greg for always giving 100%. Always curious thou. What do u do for a living. Or rather what have u done in the past makes u so knowledgable. U may not want to share this info. There will be many vanners out there thinking the same. . Thanku. Thanku. Very much for all your videos in the past. I dont know how you stay so focused. 😎 phil. Long time vanner. 45 yrs
So excited you are doing another van Greg. The prices are ridiculous. So glad that with you help we have now finished our no gas allowed Crafter. Keep up the good work mate. You are a superstar...
I bought my 2006 transit 4 years ago for £2100 and turned it into a camper. I was told by my transit mechanic that the van alone without the taking in to account the conversion is now worth the same money! Crazy times.
One van we wanted to see, we arranged an inspection for it through the AA, the inspection blokie turned up at the van seller's house and the seller wouldn't drive it to a carpark for him to check it, he expected him to do it alongside the traffic, so no inspection could be done .We told the seller, who then gave us 'his mechanic's number' so we rang him and asked what his opinion of the van was (though if we bought, we were going to withhold the inspection cost as we had to still pay it). The mechanic told us it wasn't worth the asking price LOL, he gave us a lot of good advice about what we should be looking for when buying , so we walked away having lost the inspection cost but having gained a bit more buyers savvy which we then used to buy a cheaper van.
thanks greg for doing this video. here also in Oz van prices are outrageous..! me partner and i always enjoy watching yr videos. keep up the great work.
Out of 20 vehicles I had on my market place saved lists. 8 of them were scammers, knockers, theiving scum bags. Some tips from me 1. Always ask for a video of inner and outside This is good for genuine sellers, who if they want to sell they will have available, no videos, they don't have the van! . 2. Don't entertain those selling for a mate, a mate who's left the country, Ill or what ever. Walk! 3.always meet the seller at the registered address. Never meet half way, in asda or anywhere remote. You will be robbed. 4. Don't be a victim. Don't entertain cash only deals. Put it this way, it's a cash deal, and I will meet you half way to save you time. Or I will be emptying the van at a lock up. You attend with the 5k on you, the lock up is a remote garage, no cctv. They may have set a trap and are ready to nick the 5k off you with force if you object. This has happened, car sales mainly. 5. Take a friend with you, better still 2 friends to watch your back, a mechanic. Only if you are intending to take that day. If you are viewing a legit van and seller, view the van, if you like, then consider AA and ask seller to provide HPI clear. 6. If its got fiance, the seller does not own it. If you buy and they don't clear the finance then you are liable for payments. Don't buy, unless you are willing to negotiate direct with the finance company. Eg, 10k sale, 5k owed to finance company. You agree to pay the 5k to fiance and 5k to seller. Its complicated I'd walk. Life is too short for bother 7. If a seller just wants cash in this day and age, it's should ring alarm bells. 8. Also Greg I've a lovely 2019, 4 berth you can have, drive away price. 52k 7k on the clock. Serviced, 12 month mot, habitation checked. Cycle rack and black dometic awning. Lovely. Cash only, I will meet you under the viaduct😆 Final tip, not everyone is a scum bag. Some are and tips will help you not be a victim. I've 35yts as a cop. I don't know everything, but seen alot, alot I can't forget!
@Lookup2Wakeup there is a legal clause, which is buyer ignorance or unknown. Its a specific word or phrase. I'd rather walk with a finance outstanding. I'd not even bother with negotiating a split deal with the finance company for the outstanding. Life is too short for bother. My list of personal security is not limited to what I've said, but I don't want to over take the conversation. I've an experienced view on the new crime bill and wild camping issues also. Happy to offer it up to anyone
Excellent analysis, very helpful as I'm looking to buy as you are. You are right about new vehicle shortage, lockdown deliveries and ULEZ as three reasons , I think an important fourth is staycations, more UK holidays with foreign flights are unavailable. Lots of clean vans are advertised as "ideal for conversion" , even the L1H1 models which I wouldn't want as there's no standing room. Big profits made , for sure : what annoys me are the dozens of vans being sold after a few months "because our needs have changed" when it looks as though they are turning a profit. You are very generous to not be negative about that. Keep up the good work
Yes there are clearly a lot of conversions being done and some making a business out of it. I really wanted to focus on why there is a shortage available to be converted. Thank you for a great comment 👍🏼😃
Last year I planned out the design for my 1st camper build and planned to buy the van by this month. However as your video explains perfectly its so hard to find a decent van at good price at moment so I be holding off till next year now. Just hope my current car holds out long enough until I get a van converted lol
Hi Greg. Yet again a great video. We’ve just bought a 16 plate Ford Transit L4H3 with 143k miles to convert, after repeatedly watching your videos numerous times to be able to pan it out 👍. We also nearly got scammed before one too many alarm bells when we were just about to buy a van in Bristol, and we are just outside Edinburgh. They wanted half the cost of the van, and delivery charges up front. Final alarm bell was that they would only deliver to the border, and we had to come pick up from there!! Hope you get a van soon, as I’m really interested to see how you do it and what tips I can get to build out mine.
I had no choice Greg, I'm in AUS had to order a brand new Transit LWB and it will take 12 months + to get here.....I couldn't pay a stupid high price for a van with high mileage....Thing is a new one built out by myself I can't lose money, still be worth more than the overall cost in 5 years or more...So rationally it's not a "car" that loses value...A good camper build out, never a loss...So a loan at worse works out the best option if you crunch the numbers....Anyway I have a magnetic grey LWB 10 speed on it's way...5 years warranty..
@@GregVirgoe Thanks to you I have the confidence I the all the foundational aspects sorted in my mind for the the base to put my build on..Cheers Greg..
What is the price for a new van with a such delivery date? I saw Mercedes Sprinter LWB Extended advertised for months for 48k EUR (don't remember if VAT was included, probably wasn't). It was advertised as a customer sale that wasn't closed.
Hi Greg, Cant wait to see the new build but I feel your pain looking for a van. I really did drop lucky last year in getting my Citroen Relay. This is my third build, but I wish you luck in getting the parts you need for your build, it seems to be getting better now, but a lot of my items were out of stock or still are. The manucturers are looking after the main motorhome companies and not us mere mortals out there, You will also notice a sharp increase in the cost of the parts, its shocking to be honest. A 30quid tap is now 60. And a awning I want has been on back order since last september. The quality of Morland Plywood has dropped considerably and are stocking limited colours, had to change my choice 3 times. But on a more positive note, your channel has been a great help even though I'm a seasoned converter, we dont know it all and some of your tips have been a great help. good luck mate.
That - unfortunately - is the situation in all of Europe. And all of your warnings are warranted. 🙏 We've done a very similar YT video and detailed write-up on our site with all pictures and details of the viewings last year accompanying our search here in Germany (the video is subbed and blog translated). We managed to find a 2014 VW Crafter - pure luck really... The wall of your new studio looks awesome! Oh, and BTW, in this video the construct gives you wings - are you really BATMAN? 🤣 Stay safe. 🚐☁🍀
Thanks Greg. Interesting video. We were looking to buy a motorhome before Covid, but didnt quite have the money. Now we have the money, we are facing a similar situation buying one already made!
Greg, we have the same problem in Poland. In May 2020 I bought a VW Crafter like your Sprinter. Vintage 09-2016 2-liter engine for 12,000 euro. today I could sell it for 14,000 euros. The world has gone crazy. But I'm not selling it. Thanks to your videos, I made a campervan. And I know it was a great investment.
And so it is. Exactly the same situation here in Germany. Even new vehicles are hard to come by, and if they are, then only in the equipment variants that a dealer has in stock. And bargaining down was yesterday anyway. So the only thing left to do is to be patient or very, very lucky. I wish you that luck so that the new van conversion can finally get underway!
I just discovered your channel and I spent the day watching your videos, you had strongly motivated and influenced me for my sprinter 314 project. I can't wait to see the virtual plan of your new project! Regards.
I had my brand-new 22 plate Peugeot Boxer L4H2 panel van a few weeks ago... it took 12 months to be delivered. I paid my deposit before the prices shot up, so I kept the original price. Ironically, my brand new van was actually cheaper to buy than a decent second hand van at current silly prices... It is now being converted into a camper van by a professional van builder. I was unable to buy a decent second-hand one to convert in 2020/2021, as was my original intention, so I bought brand new instead. Good luck with your project.
Great vid buddy. As we chatted about at South central, I'm also still struglling to find a van. I'm also gonna sit tight for a bit and focus doing bits on my van for a while. Hope you and lou are well. See you at the next meet 😁👍
Theres also a lot of people who would normally sell their vehicle to get a new van but are holding on longer so they can get an electric van. Loads of people don't want to buy another diesel van given climate change and also the price of diesel. There has also been a big shortage of new electric vans due to same issues with diesel ones.
It's even more difficult in the US, Greg. New vans , if you are prepared to fly 3000 miles from where you are to get one have increased over 100% in less than 2 years. Putting even more pressure on second hand low milage ones. I know a guy who waited 6 months for his new van to be delivered. Two weeks of use and it was off road awaiting new parts. That happened five months ago and the parts have yet to arrive. The " just in time " conveyor belt is badly broken, but let me tell ya, that beaten up disaster of a van with a third of a million miles on it would make two, maybe three families a wonderful home in San Francisco where the monthly rent for a one bedroom flat would be more than the cost of that van. Seriously, millions more could be looking for a van very shortly, moving or not won't matter because it will provide a roof over their head.
I’m looking for the same thing! Thanks so much, you have opened my eyes to the situation we are currently in and made total sense. I think I will also have to hold off until September. Thanks for the heads up! 👍
I have seen a slight reduction in second hand oats but until there are more new vans on the market I don’t think it will change much before September. Best of luck with your search for a van. 👍🏼😃
The problem with high mileage vehicles is that the engine is often good for well over 100K plus but all the auxiliaries aren’t, and that can really add up over time. I’m also a member of “Ban the RUclips Jackery Power-Bank Sales Plug” club. Best wishes and good luck with your search.
I really hope the prices become stable in a few years. I want to buy a van to make it a short holiday van so it doesn't need to have High specs. The van is for short city or holiday breaks. But the prices are ridiculous now so hopefully in a few years, the market will be flooded again with 2nd hand vans.
I’ve watched him since I began my build five years ago. He helped me a lot! Now, we in the US are in the same boat…but they are selling too many of these vans!
I’ve was looking for the right van for 2 years before miraculously I found the perfect one with incredible low mileage and perfect condition I remember watching you video when you said how much you paid for yours and thought that was a bargain but that was way before any of the world wide troubles to hit Keep up the great vids they have been incredibly helpful
Maybe build a Teardrop Camping Trailer…. I’m in the middle of a build and have found this channel helpful I.e. electrics, lighting and water storage. 👍
Manchester clean air zone is on hold at the moment its just cost 85000 for major to cover all the new clean air signs up where fighting it Thanks greg for all your sharing over the years i built a 2013 citroen relay L2H3 in 2020 converted into a camper just like your merc design with moorland board and truma heater etc LOVE IT now after purchacing another 2013 H2L3 citroen relay with 110 000 miles on clock last year 2021 i got it for a good price but had body work damage and needed mechanical work but found out that bodywork on vans is really expensive because of the big area but i sorted the mechanical stuff my self i just saying be very careful when you buy a van with bodywork damage its very expensive if you have to pay somebody else to do it citroen relay ...................peugeot boxer.............. and fiat ducato are all the same van from i dont no the year have a great day Mike
It's a similar situation in the US. A lot of vans for sale, but the prices are really high. Personally, I'm looking for a Transit 350, high roof, long wheelbase. But all I see are vans in the $40K USD range with over 100K miles. I already have a van - a 1992 E350 extended, high roof, conversion van with about 200K miles, but after doing some initial measurements, it isn't really suitable for the type of build I want to do (camping trips for mtn biking). However, since I own the van already, I will probably end up building it out while I wait for prices to (hopefully) drop down to more reasonable levels.
We're trying to get into the vanlife craze but as you say, the prices have gone crazy. We have subscribed to your channel as you give so much information on what to do and I'm looking forward to starting our journey. Thank you Greg, you're a superstar!!
A lot of people seem to be selling up and wanting to live in vans etc now, at a time when there seems to be a serious attempt to make owning a vehicle difficult . Many people are even saying it's hard to get gas bottle refills.
Yer i noticed this, you explained why in perfect detail so looks like I’m not gunna scrap my little transit connect work van now but spend a few quid on it to sort a few probs, then tart it up. Recon will take a few years for this to settle down completely.
You should see the prizes vans go for over here. Of course, with being on an island, prizes where always far higher than what you paid in the UK, but it's now absolutely ridiculous! The first van you showed for almost £8k would be a bargain here. For that kind of money I only get old bangers. High mileage and they are only held together by rust and paint. I was offered an ex-ambulance the other day for €5k and thought that it was a good prize until I saw that it had almost 500k km on the clock! It's very discouraging. 😕
Hi Greg. Unbelievable how prices have risen. I use Synetiq. I Buy salvage all the time. Several ducatos. Relay and boxers on atm. Keep up the great content .
You should do a video on what you would change on your current van, issues you faced, things that could have been better etc. would be interesting as you've travelled and lived in it extensively now. Cheers Greg! Good luck finding a van!
Well I had to bite the bullet and bought a Peugeot boxer with 299k miles on it 25 k miles later it’s the best van I ever owned , these modern engines can if theg are serviced well mine had no device history but the owner came across a very honest guy also important when buying , I have a 7.5 m 2012 fiat ducato low floor Luton which I bought for an project but now may have to sell , great channel !
Bought my vehicle last year from someone who lived in a area that was introducing the clean zone cost, so he was keen to sell so got for a good price. I do feel sorry for residents that live in these areas and have this cost imposed upon them.
The clean zones won't help,pushing ALL engined cars looking for spaces outside the zone then there co2 will travel in the wind towards the clean zones MADNESS,the govt would b better keeping the grants for ev's so more people might b able to ride the ev wave,the town centres are the playground for those who can afford ev's.
Your spot on Greg, I bought my vw crafter during first lock down and I had delivery drivers actually knocking my door and asking to buy it for 5k more than I paid and this was just 8 weeks after we got it. We were lucky, bought just at the turn of the prices, phew.
The rare used vans which have been privately owned and well looked after sell within days or even hours. So if you cant get to see one instantly because of work commitments then youll be looking for a long time! Im after a small van like a connect/partner. Its tough out there right now. Its like musical chairs!
I've seen that here in Germany also, bought my Transit connect over 4 years ago for 3.6k€, now the same van in lower condition is asked 4.5k€ for... In your "small" market with the RHD's it will be more difficult, I bet. Did you looked for a abandoned project from guys that turned away from building their own van? Maybe you could get a solid base that way... ;-) Thx for the vid, nice new studio, really! :-D
Hi Greg Have you thought about the movano/renault/nissan nv400 all built in the same renault factory . Mine is the xlwb high top rwd H4 H3 and huge inside even after insulating the roof and floor I can still stand up straight and the don't suffer from the metal worm as much as some makes do.... Scams everywhere so well done to you for highlighting the problem keep up the good work. 👍
Some delivery companies are employing owner-drivers on a self-employed basis and the van market has become very dodgy, I bought one and within 4 hours of being parked outside my home someone took a fancy to it, I still have it but now it is electrified beyond the norm
Hello Greg! Firstly I wanna thank you for these AMAZING educational videos you are providing, truly helpful! I am not 100% sure if you have already a video on this matter - I am planning to build a van too but I don’t know where to start. Could you do a quick video of... sort of a follow-up guide? Ex. step 1. choose a vehicle, 2. Layout, 3. All the sheets (budget, electrical usage...) Also what do you think about Iveco Daily? I can’t wait to see the VR video that’s sick!!! Thank you again :)
Thank you for this. Some thi gs I knew, some things I didn't. But because I have a van, I have friends talk to me about how difficult it is trying to get a van. So as iv been a "vanner" for nearly 6 years and kinda have heard all the advice and scams I keep my eye out for vans for my friends. Well my eyes have been opened! Jeez, the prices! Everything you said, and more in terms of scams. Happening too in "vintage campers/caravans" too ie puck. There is one that iv seen, a "too good to be true" price and everyone wants to see inside the vehicle. It's pictures through the windows only despite being asked loads of times for proper interior shots. Bare information, and answers the same to each question, like an automated response. Really hope no one has bought it and been done, as lots of folk flagging it up in the comments.
I will be selling my van soon but it is not what you are looking for. Mine is a 2008 Renault Trafic LWB that I have 90% converted. I now know that I need a high roof as I am 6 feet tall and cannot move around it very easily. So I am also looking for a similar van to what you are in search of. Good luck my man.!
Hi Greg. Have you thought of an exambulance. I ve jyy it st bought a fiat ducato ambulance at an auction . A 2012 4.2 tonne 3 litre engine with 180 bhp for £4800 plus fees. It was a bit of a gamble 😕 but I think it has payed off. I am halfway through the build and couldn’t be happier. Thanks for the informative vid. Good luck with your search 😁
Excellent Video Greg Thank you, and very well explained. Now 57 I was looking upgrade and invest in a more forever van. But the prices/mileage are just mad. So I decided to buy new, or nearly new through Vanways. Nearly new vans turned out to be more expensive than new! So i put a deposit down on a brand new Peugeot Boxer with an estimated lead time of six months. This gave me time to look around and think about where best to use my money. I've now decided to buy a motorhome! But i love self build vans and its amazing community so i'm hoping i can find another project later in the year. Looking forward to seeing you at camp quirky Greg Best wishes Nigel
I spent a year looking for something suitable at a sensible price. I went shopping abroad instead and am now importing a vehicle from Dubai and hope to convert it for half what the same build would cost in Europe
My little work van got written off in a non-fault accident. and I got paid out from insurance 80% more than what I paid for it 4 years ago. But I purchased an already converted van. Just a day van Renault Trafic swb, non pop top. and spent well over the top mainly as didn't have much choice to wait as had no vehicle.
Have you built any vans with triple bunk beds and a double with shower or would you have a rough idea how I'd go about it? We are a family of 5. We are short 5'5 the tallest. Many thanks
I bought my first van with 150k miles for $1500. Never had an issue. My most recent van I was driving, the transmission went out. My family talked me into selling it and buying a new one so I did but I didn't realize the shortage was so bad. I cant tell you how much of a catastrophic decision that was for me. 3 months later I'm still homeless and vans like my first van are now worth $9.5K. What a horrible horrible time to be alive.
In the 80's i bought a mercedes 508 from the scrapheap for 3500 bucks and i had to weld some new sheet metal here and there and then painted it and it was good as new again, because technicaly seen they are waaaaaay over enginered and last forever, so i didn't had to do anything to get it past the mot. in 2001 i bought a sprinter 312 and payed 9k for it and had it for 17 years and spend at least twice that money in repairs and maintenance. I even restored it to brandnew including the engine and everything, but after 3 weeks it got stolen. Now i have 2011 316 automatic, and it's again a bottomless money pit because it's nothing but trouble. Everything made to 1990 was great and everything afterwards just stinks.
Good advice for buying a van you said fiat ducato van is the more reliable I would of thought the Mercedes sprinter would be more reliable to me I’m waiting myself to get a van I’m torn between sprinter or Ducatto myself
4. People at home because of lockdowns, taking on a DIY project to keep busy, building a camper for local holidays because they can't/afraid to holiday overseas. Also, because of this situation there is a shortage of camper components - I've had to think of different things to use in my build, because I couldn't get the items I needed.
Hi gregg, about 12 months ago I had a job interview at a mercedes van dealer, they said they had 1500 brand new vans in there compound, that were all sold and waiting collection!
Hallo Greg, feel your pain. I placed a comment when your Merc was near completion a while ago and when you were travelling through Portugal. I said then I was planning my own van conversion. It never happened , ( diagnosed with cancer and career not allowing the time). Given the all clear just a few months ago and back working so I bought a Swift 4 berth motorhome on a fiat ducato .35,000 miles at trade price £24,800. All new ones this year at NEC Show £ 10,000 dearer , which has increased the value of mine over 20 per cent. They currently for sale where ever I look around £ 33/÷= thousand. Its ridiculous . Keep searching Greg and you will find.
Greg, long-time follower here, your videos were invaluable during my own build last year. I just wondered whether you had looked at vehicle auctions. I bought a car last week at a trade & finance vehicle auction (open to public) and saw a few vans going for a bit less than I expected, certainly much better value than the examples you've given here. VAT occasionally payable (not always) and there's an auctioneer's fee but it still works out. After all, this is where a lot of the forecourts buy their own vehicles. The auction I attended was Wilson's in Newport, South Wales, but I'm willing to bet there's something closer to home for you. I would seriously consider it.
Slightly cheaper and maybe more choice at this time......... however......... remember......... its strictly sold as seen from an auction, absolutely no come back / recourse at all with either the seller or auction house. You need to be V knowledgeable / experienced.
Quick, someone give this man a van. Look forward to seeing you convert another.
Hell yeah!
Thanyou for sharing that, it's certainly opened my eyes. I've been looking for a van to convert and same as you,mega high miles, major work to do, or scammers. Looks like I won't be traveling anytime soon.
My question is will there ridiculous prices come back down?
Give me one ….
Great vid. I also talked to a guy last year and he told me that Jeff bezzos of Amazon bought 25,000 Mercedes Sprinters and the same number of fords. That left his builder waiting for over a year to get his vans delivered.
I also can't help thinking the surge in prices of used vans was because of a surge in self builders as a result of the UK holiday parks ripping people off when we couldn't travel abroad during the pandemic. That pricing policy for holiday parks has not been changed since.
You have a valid point
@Richy_Rich I’m keeping my old banger as I refuse to pay these stupid prices.
What a great service Greg provides to honest folks! Greg, as keep looking, I'd be interested in more videos like this. It's the most important part of the project (by far) pricewise, so sharing what you learn will be much appreciated as people make decisions. For example, I've been considering French vans like the Peugeot Boxer and Renault Master and would be interested in knowing how those compare with the Fiat Ducato
Hi Greg, I bought my van this time last year. The same spec, age and (more) miles is now 8k more from the same dealer! Unbelievable!
Best of luck because it seems like the only way to get a fair price is to know someone in the trades/dealer networks.
OMG finally! I'm so happy someone explained me clearly why it is so difficult to get these days!!! Thank you Greg!
I'm planing to buy a van next year or 2024, I hope so. I will always follow you up with this news and please share us more! All of your videos are increadibly informative! What a great work! Cheers!
I wish you lots of luck in finding your perfect van and thank you for watching
It’s absolutely ridiculous the prices of vans now. Great informative video Greg cheers
Thank you guys 👍🏼
It's not just vans. I've an Auto-sleeper MH on a Peugeot Boxer and I've been offered £8000 more than I paid for it in 2019. Also got an electric car which is worth more than I paid for it 2 years ago - the world's gone mad. Good luck with your project.
Can’t wait for you to get a new van Greg, we’ve just got ours and are looking forward to your budget tips! 😁👍
I’m hoping that come September there will be a few more on the market 👍🏼😃
Great to see you Greg back in the studio - Simply the best van build ‘guru’ out there 😀 x
Thank you both 😃 hope to see you soon at a van meet up 👍🏼
I just noticed your Wintergarten TShirt! Kudos to you for supporting Martin!
I like to support the channels that I follow 👍🏼😃
@@GregVirgoe well I have to say I am loving going back through your content after discovering you the other day.
I bought a transit van a month or so ago and have spent my spare time learning to weld so I can patch up the cheese grater rear floor and wheel arches.
I'm now at the stage where I can start with insulation and subfloor, I put in the roof fan/vent a couple of days ago with no leaks yet.
Just waiting on the dc to dc mppt to arrive and I can try to figure out how to fit unistrut to my mk 6 roof with zero threaded inserts available... 🤔
Loving your budget build series so far!
@Greg Virgo Hi Greg glad to see you back doing another conversion. I have been a subscriber to your channel right from the beginning of your very first build. I don't know why but YT have never notified me of this video the only way I found out you were planning a new budget build was when I came across your other video of you and the Mrs picking up the MWB Ducato. I checked and I was still Subscribed and all notifications on.
I am currently looking for a van like yours to convert myself so will be following your build with interest
RUclips does some strange things at time and often has not sent out notifications. But I’m glad you found it and there will be regular weekly updates from now on 👍🏼😃
I came across that scam where they ask you to pay up front, then they will deliver later. When I investigated, it turned out that they didn't have a base or premises. You have to be really careful at the moment, with private sales, make sure it matches the address, easy to do on line. Great vid old boy anyway. 😁👍
ooooo
a family of mine almost got scammed themselves
found out the email wasn’t legit
the seller also wanted them to give them the money first and said they’d “ship” the vehicle to them
Great to see you back again!😀
Hi Greg, Mark here. I work in the fleet industry, just recently we’ve have notifications from leading LCV Manufacturers that they have closed the order books for new orders for the foreseeable as they’ve already probably got more orders banked than what they can manufacture. That means in the next few months there will be some very disappointed people who have ordered new vans and manufactures can’t fulfil the orders!
Some of the blame rest’s with you Greg 😜there’s a load of half finished camper conversions up and down the country thanks to your great channel 🤣🤣
Can’t get decent donor vans for love nor money..
Keep the videos coming 👍
Another great informative video Greg. I can say the same situation that you have in the UK re vehicle sales is also an issue here in Australia. In particular the sale of second-hand dual-cab utilities has gone nuts. I'm glad I took delivery of my own van brand new in February 2020 and escaped the supply issues you speak of. Good luck with the new van and thanks for your reply to my message the other day.
Admiration big time to you Greg for always giving 100%.
Always curious thou. What do u do for a living. Or rather what have u done in the past makes u so knowledgable. U may not want to share this info.
There will be many vanners out there thinking the same. . Thanku. Thanku. Very much for all your videos in the past. I dont know how you stay so focused. 😎 phil. Long time vanner. 45 yrs
I’m a mechanical services design engineer by trade. Took early retirement to travel. Been living in the van for 4 yrs now 🚐😃
Great video mate. Love the new workshop and the disco lights. Love to Lou
So excited you are doing another van Greg. The prices are ridiculous. So glad that with you help we have now finished our no gas allowed Crafter. Keep up the good work mate. You are a superstar...
I bought my 2006 transit 4 years ago for £2100 and turned it into a camper. I was told by my transit mechanic that the van alone without the taking in to account the conversion is now worth the same money! Crazy times.
Good information. Seeing the same issues in the states.
That is a shame 🥴
Really interesting Greg , thanks . Missed you at south builders as I had a migraine but will say hi at Quirky . Best Darren and Scoobs
One van we wanted to see, we arranged an inspection for it through the AA, the inspection blokie turned up at the van seller's house and the seller wouldn't drive it to a carpark for him to check it, he expected him to do it alongside the traffic, so no inspection could be done .We told the seller, who then gave us 'his mechanic's number' so we rang him and asked what his opinion of the van was (though if we bought, we were going to withhold the inspection cost as we had to still pay it). The mechanic told us it wasn't worth the asking price LOL, he gave us a lot of good advice about what we should be looking for when buying , so we walked away having lost the inspection cost but having gained a bit more buyers savvy which we then used to buy a cheaper van.
thanks greg for doing this video. here also in Oz van prices are outrageous..! me partner and i always enjoy watching yr videos. keep up the great work.
That’s very kind of you both. Thank you for your support 😃
Out of 20 vehicles I had on my market place saved lists. 8 of them were scammers, knockers, theiving scum bags.
Some tips from me
1. Always ask for a video of inner and outside
This is good for genuine sellers, who if they want to sell they will have available, no videos, they don't have the van! .
2. Don't entertain those selling for a mate, a mate who's left the country, Ill or what ever. Walk!
3.always meet the seller at the registered address. Never meet half way, in asda or anywhere remote. You will be robbed.
4. Don't be a victim. Don't entertain cash only deals. Put it this way, it's a cash deal, and I will meet you half way to save you time. Or I will be emptying the van at a lock up. You attend with the 5k on you, the lock up is a remote garage, no cctv. They may have set a trap and are ready to nick the 5k off you with force if you object.
This has happened, car sales mainly.
5. Take a friend with you, better still 2 friends to watch your back, a mechanic. Only if you are intending to take that day. If you are viewing a legit van and seller, view the van, if you like, then consider AA and ask seller to provide HPI clear.
6. If its got fiance, the seller does not own it. If you buy and they don't clear the finance then you are liable for payments.
Don't buy, unless you are willing to negotiate direct with the finance company. Eg, 10k sale, 5k owed to finance company. You agree to pay the 5k to fiance and 5k to seller. Its complicated I'd walk. Life is too short for bother
7. If a seller just wants cash in this day and age, it's should ring alarm bells.
8. Also Greg I've a lovely 2019, 4 berth you can have, drive away price. 52k 7k on the clock. Serviced, 12 month mot, habitation checked. Cycle rack and black dometic awning. Lovely. Cash only, I will meet you under the viaduct😆
Final tip, not everyone is a scum bag. Some are and tips will help you not be a victim. I've 35yts as a cop. I don't know everything, but seen alot, alot I can't forget!
@Lookup2Wakeup there is a legal clause, which is buyer ignorance or unknown. Its a specific word or phrase. I'd rather walk with a finance outstanding. I'd not even bother with negotiating a split deal with the finance company for the outstanding. Life is too short for bother. My list of personal security is not limited to what I've said, but I don't want to over take the conversation. I've an experienced view on the new crime bill and wild camping issues also. Happy to offer it up to anyone
Excellent analysis, very helpful as I'm looking to buy as you are. You are right about new vehicle shortage, lockdown deliveries and ULEZ as three reasons , I think an important fourth is staycations, more UK holidays with foreign flights are unavailable. Lots of clean vans are advertised as "ideal for conversion" , even the L1H1 models which I wouldn't want as there's no standing room. Big profits made , for sure : what annoys me are the dozens of vans being sold after a few months "because our needs have changed" when it looks as though they are turning a profit. You are very generous to not be negative about that. Keep up the good work
Yes there are clearly a lot of conversions being done and some making a business out of it.
I really wanted to focus on why there is a shortage available to be converted. Thank you for a great comment 👍🏼😃
Last year I planned out the design for my 1st camper build and planned to buy the van by this month. However as your video explains perfectly its so hard to find a decent van at good price at moment so I be holding off till next year now. Just hope my current car holds out long enough until I get a van converted lol
Nice to see you again and happy hunting.
Hi Greg. Yet again a great video. We’ve just bought a 16 plate Ford Transit L4H3 with 143k miles to convert, after repeatedly watching your videos numerous times to be able to pan it out 👍. We also nearly got scammed before one too many alarm bells when we were just about to buy a van in Bristol, and we are just outside Edinburgh. They wanted half the cost of the van, and delivery charges up front. Final alarm bell was that they would only deliver to the border, and we had to come pick up from there!! Hope you get a van soon, as I’m really interested to see how you do it and what tips I can get to build out mine.
Nice Wintergatan MMX T-shirt. Hope you come across a Van soon. Really looking forward to another build.
I like to support my favourite channels. Been following Martin for years 😊
12 month wait for a new Crafter here in Australia
Thanks Greg. You're a complete star. Will be passing on these thoughts and tips to a fb group i belong to. ♥️
Please do send me a link or tag me in your post 👍🏼😃
Great info Greg, im sure the market will settle eventually. Although my search for a budget wife is now in its 41st year 😳😳. 😁
I had no choice Greg, I'm in AUS had to order a brand new Transit LWB and it will take 12 months + to get here.....I couldn't pay a stupid high price for a van with high mileage....Thing is a new one built out by myself I can't lose money, still be worth more than the overall cost in 5 years or more...So rationally it's not a "car" that loses value...A good camper build out, never a loss...So a loan at worse works out the best option if you crunch the numbers....Anyway I have a magnetic grey LWB 10 speed on it's way...5 years warranty..
Very nice 👍🏼 good luck with the build 🙂
@@GregVirgoe Thanks to you I have the confidence I the all the foundational aspects sorted in my mind for the the base to put my build on..Cheers Greg..
What is the price for a new van with a such delivery date? I saw Mercedes Sprinter LWB Extended advertised for months for 48k EUR (don't remember if VAT was included, probably wasn't). It was advertised as a customer sale that wasn't closed.
Hi Greg, Cant wait to see the new build but I feel your pain looking for a van. I really did drop lucky last year in getting my Citroen Relay. This is my third build, but I wish you luck in getting the parts you need for your build, it seems to be getting better now, but a lot of my items were out of stock or still are. The manucturers are looking after the main motorhome companies and not us mere mortals out there, You will also notice a sharp increase in the cost of the parts, its shocking to be honest. A 30quid tap is now 60. And a awning I want has been on back order since last september. The quality of Morland Plywood has dropped considerably and are stocking limited colours, had to change my choice 3 times. But on a more positive note, your channel has been a great help even though I'm a seasoned converter, we dont know it all and some of your tips have been a great help. good luck mate.
Thank you very much. I hope it will turn up later in the year.
That - unfortunately - is the situation in all of Europe. And all of your warnings are warranted. 🙏
We've done a very similar YT video and detailed write-up on our site with all pictures and details of the viewings last year accompanying our search here in Germany (the video is subbed and blog translated). We managed to find a 2014 VW Crafter - pure luck really...
The wall of your new studio looks awesome! Oh, and BTW, in this video the construct gives you wings - are you really BATMAN? 🤣
Stay safe. 🚐☁🍀
I’m glad you noticed that. I thought it looked a bit like the bat logo 😂👍🏼
Thanks Greg, more great advice for van folk. Rab
Thanks Greg. Interesting video. We were looking to buy a motorhome before Covid, but didnt quite have the money. Now we have the money, we are facing a similar situation buying one already made!
Greg, we have the same problem in Poland. In May 2020 I bought a VW Crafter like your Sprinter. Vintage 09-2016 2-liter engine for 12,000 euro. today I could sell it for 14,000 euros. The world has gone crazy. But I'm not selling it. Thanks to your videos, I made a campervan. And I know it was a great investment.
And so it is. Exactly the same situation here in Germany. Even new vehicles are hard to come by, and if they are, then only in the equipment variants that a dealer has in stock. And bargaining down was yesterday anyway. So the only thing left to do is to be patient or very, very lucky. I wish you that luck so that the new van conversion can finally get underway!
Thank you very much 🙏🏼😊
I just discovered your channel and I spent the day watching your videos, you had strongly motivated and influenced me for my sprinter 314 project.
I can't wait to see the virtual plan of your new project!
Regards.
That’s great that you found the channel. There are lots of useful videos here 👍🏼😃
Great info as always Greg...cheers 👍
I had my brand-new 22 plate Peugeot Boxer L4H2 panel van a few weeks ago... it took 12 months to be delivered. I paid my deposit before the prices shot up, so I kept the original price. Ironically, my brand new van was actually cheaper to buy than a decent second hand van at current silly prices... It is now being converted into a camper van by a professional van builder. I was unable to buy a decent second-hand one to convert in 2020/2021, as was my original intention, so I bought brand new instead. Good luck with your project.
Rock solid advice as usual Greg. Thanks a million as always. Stay safe.🙏🌞🌻🇬🇧☯️🙏
Great vid buddy. As we chatted about at South central, I'm also still struglling to find a van. I'm also gonna sit tight for a bit and focus doing bits on my van for a while. Hope you and lou are well. See you at the next meet 😁👍
You going to the midlands one 😊 we will be there 👍🏼
Our friend & mentor greg
Thank you Greg from all your loyal friends.
Kind regards
Glyn
That is very kind of you, thank you for your continued support :D
Thank you, very interesting listen, family of 3 w dog looking for 2nd hand van to convert and was wondering why they are coming up so expensive
I am starting to see a slight down turn in prices so by September the bubble should have burst 🤞🏼🚐😃
Theres also a lot of people who would normally sell their vehicle to get a new van but are holding on longer so they can get an electric van. Loads of people don't want to buy another diesel van given climate change and also the price of diesel. There has also been a big shortage of new electric vans due to same issues with diesel ones.
It's even more difficult in the US, Greg. New vans , if you are prepared to fly 3000 miles from where you are to get one have increased over 100% in less than 2 years. Putting even more pressure on second hand low milage ones. I know a guy who waited 6 months for his new van to be delivered. Two weeks of use and it was off road awaiting new parts. That happened five months ago and the parts have yet to arrive. The " just in time " conveyor belt is badly broken, but let me tell ya, that beaten up disaster of a van with a third of a million miles on it would make two, maybe three families a wonderful home in San Francisco where the monthly rent for a one bedroom flat would be more than the cost of that van. Seriously, millions more could be looking for a van very shortly, moving or not won't matter because it will provide a roof over their head.
Dude, you are correct. And look at all of the empty buildings and houses that COULD be used to house the houseless. Greed will kill us.
I’m looking for the same thing! Thanks so much, you have opened my eyes to the situation we are currently in and made total sense. I think I will also have to hold off until September. Thanks for the heads up! 👍
I have seen a slight reduction in second hand oats but until there are more new vans on the market I don’t think it will change much before September. Best of luck with your search for a van. 👍🏼😃
Looking forward to the 3D model video. I have always wanted to create a 3D model myself.
The problem with high mileage vehicles is that the engine is often good for well over 100K plus but all the auxiliaries aren’t, and that can really add up over time. I’m also a member of “Ban the RUclips Jackery Power-Bank Sales Plug” club. Best wishes and good luck with your search.
Frustrating time for people who want to build. Hope you get a Van soon Greg. Thanx for sharing.
I really hope the prices become stable in a few years. I want to buy a van to make it a short holiday van so it doesn't need to have High specs. The van is for short city or holiday breaks. But the prices are ridiculous now so hopefully in a few years, the market will be flooded again with 2nd hand vans.
I’ve watched him since I began my build five years ago. He helped me a lot! Now, we in the US are in the same boat…but they are selling too many of these vans!
Thank you for watching me all these years.
@@GregVirgoe well, I only watched the GREAT builders, so.. you were that
@@skippy9659 that’s very kind. Thank you 🙏🏼
I’ve was looking for the right van for 2 years before miraculously I found the perfect one with incredible low mileage and perfect condition
I remember watching you video when you said how much you paid for yours and thought that was a bargain but that was way before any of the world wide troubles to hit
Keep up the great vids they have been incredibly helpful
Thank you for watching 😃
Maybe build a Teardrop Camping Trailer…. I’m in the middle of a build and have found this channel helpful I.e. electrics, lighting and water storage. 👍
Manchester clean air zone is on hold at the moment its just cost 85000 for major to cover all the new clean air signs up where fighting it
Thanks greg for all your sharing over the years i built a 2013 citroen relay L2H3 in 2020 converted into a camper just like your merc design with moorland board and truma heater etc LOVE IT
now after purchacing another 2013 H2L3 citroen relay with 110 000 miles on clock last year 2021 i got it for a good price but had body work damage and needed mechanical work
but found out that bodywork on vans is really expensive because of the big area but i sorted the mechanical stuff my self
i just saying be very careful when you buy a van with bodywork damage its very expensive if you have to pay somebody else to do it
citroen relay ...................peugeot boxer.............. and fiat ducato are all the same van from i dont no the year
have a great day
Mike
Great Vlog Greg... Keep up the good work buddy
Thank you very much 👍🏼😃
Lots of good advice Greg. I’m new to this and armed with your advice and experience feel better equipped to start looking.
It may be wise to wait a little until the market picks up again. 🤔😊
It's a similar situation in the US. A lot of vans for sale, but the prices are really high. Personally, I'm looking for a Transit 350, high roof, long wheelbase. But all I see are vans in the $40K USD range with over 100K miles. I already have a van - a 1992 E350 extended, high roof, conversion van with about 200K miles, but after doing some initial measurements, it isn't really suitable for the type of build I want to do (camping trips for mtn biking). However, since I own the van already, I will probably end up building it out while I wait for prices to (hopefully) drop down to more reasonable levels.
We're trying to get into the vanlife craze but as you say, the prices have gone crazy. We have subscribed to your channel as you give so much information on what to do and I'm looking forward to starting our journey. Thank you Greg, you're a superstar!!
A lot of people seem to be selling up and wanting to live in vans etc now, at a time when there seems to be a serious attempt to make owning a vehicle difficult . Many people are even saying it's hard to get gas bottle refills.
Yer i noticed this, you explained why in perfect detail so looks like I’m not gunna scrap my little transit connect work van now but spend a few quid on it to sort a few probs, then tart it up. Recon will take a few years for this to settle down completely.
You could still make good money on it
How about an alternative type of van build. Like a Nissan Nv200 size, they are getting very popular as camper vans.
Greg why not do a mini camper on something like a Connect or Doblo? Could be fun while you're waiting for a bigger van.
You should see the prizes vans go for over here. Of course, with being on an island, prizes where always far higher than what you paid in the UK, but it's now absolutely ridiculous! The first van you showed for almost £8k would be a bargain here. For that kind of money I only get old bangers. High mileage and they are only held together by rust and paint. I was offered an ex-ambulance the other day for €5k and thought that it was a good prize until I saw that it had almost 500k km on the clock! It's very discouraging. 😕
Hi Greg. Unbelievable how prices have risen. I use Synetiq. I Buy salvage all the time. Several ducatos. Relay and boxers on atm. Keep up the great content .
You should do a video on what you would change on your current van, issues you faced, things that could have been better etc. would be interesting as you've travelled and lived in it extensively now. Cheers Greg! Good luck finding a van!
Excellent video Greg packed with info as usual cheers mate
Well I had to bite the bullet and bought a Peugeot boxer with 299k miles on it 25 k miles later it’s the best van I ever owned , these modern engines can if theg are serviced well mine had no device history but the owner came across a very honest guy also important when buying , I have a 7.5 m 2012 fiat ducato low floor Luton which I bought for an project but now may have to sell , great channel !
Bought my vehicle last year from someone who lived in a area that was introducing the clean zone cost, so he was keen to sell so got for a good price.
I do feel sorry for residents that live in these areas and have this cost imposed upon them.
Manchester has put this awful charge on hold for now.
That was part of the reason I sold my VW Camper that was in excellent condition but euro 5.
The clean zones won't help,pushing ALL engined cars looking for spaces outside the zone then there co2 will travel in the wind towards the clean zones MADNESS,the govt would b better keeping the grants for ev's so more people might b able to ride the ev wave,the town centres are the playground for those who can afford ev's.
@@stum8374 They seem to want private cars off the road altogether for all but the affluent?
@@BrasherFox hi Brian can you take Manchester Council to court ?
Your spot on Greg, I bought my vw crafter during first lock down and I had delivery drivers actually knocking my door and asking to buy it for 5k more than I paid and this was just 8 weeks after we got it. We were lucky, bought just at the turn of the prices, phew.
Well done 👍🏼
Great I’m looking forward to your next build 👍
The rare used vans which have been privately owned and well looked after sell within days or even hours. So if you cant get to see one instantly because of work commitments then youll be looking for a long time! Im after a small van like a connect/partner. Its tough out there right now. Its like musical chairs!
Love your MMX T-shirt 👍
Always been a fan of martins channel 👍🏼😃
Fascinating information....frustrating that we might be paying doulble for our van though....
fab advice thank for all the hard work it means alot gregg
My pleasure!
Most informative Greg, thank you....Hello Lou 😊
Thanks for that Greg, very informative as always 👍
I've seen that here in Germany also, bought my Transit connect over 4 years ago for 3.6k€, now the same van in lower condition is asked 4.5k€ for...
In your "small" market with the RHD's it will be more difficult, I bet.
Did you looked for a abandoned project from guys that turned away from building their own van? Maybe you could get a solid base that way...
;-)
Thx for the vid, nice new studio, really!
:-D
Hi Greg
Have you thought about the movano/renault/nissan nv400 all built in the same renault factory .
Mine is the xlwb high top rwd H4 H3 and
huge inside even after insulating the roof and floor I can still stand up straight and the don't suffer from the metal worm as much as some makes do....
Scams everywhere so well done to you for highlighting the problem keep up the good work. 👍
Some delivery companies are employing owner-drivers on a self-employed basis and the van market has become very dodgy, I bought one and within 4 hours of being parked outside my home someone took a fancy to it, I still have it but now it is electrified beyond the norm
Hello Greg!
Firstly I wanna thank you for these AMAZING educational videos you are providing, truly helpful!
I am not 100% sure if you have already a video on this matter - I am planning to build a van too but I don’t know where to start. Could you do a quick video of... sort of a follow-up guide? Ex. step 1. choose a vehicle, 2. Layout, 3. All the sheets (budget, electrical usage...)
Also what do you think about Iveco Daily?
I can’t wait to see the VR video that’s sick!!!
Thank you again :)
Thank you for this. Some thi gs I knew, some things I didn't. But because I have a van, I have friends talk to me about how difficult it is trying to get a van. So as iv been a "vanner" for nearly 6 years and kinda have heard all the advice and scams I keep my eye out for vans for my friends. Well my eyes have been opened! Jeez, the prices! Everything you said, and more in terms of scams. Happening too in "vintage campers/caravans" too ie puck. There is one that iv seen, a "too good to be true" price and everyone wants to see inside the vehicle. It's pictures through the windows only despite being asked loads of times for proper interior shots. Bare information, and answers the same to each question, like an automated response. Really hope no one has bought it and been done, as lots of folk flagging it up in the comments.
I will be selling my van soon but it is not what you are looking for. Mine is a 2008 Renault Trafic LWB that I have 90% converted. I now know that I need a high roof as I am 6 feet tall and cannot move around it very easily. So I am also looking for a similar van to what you are in search of. Good luck my man.!
I have been looking all over essex
For 18 months and price and condition of vans
Is silly
So decided to keep saving up
And re look end of year
Probably a good idea 👍🏼😃
I’d wait a year
Great content Greg, thanks for sharing!!!
Glad you liked it Brian 👍🏼
Hi Greg. Have you thought of an exambulance. I ve jyy it st bought a fiat ducato ambulance at an auction . A 2012 4.2 tonne 3 litre engine with 180 bhp for £4800 plus fees. It was a bit of a gamble 😕 but I think it has payed off. I am halfway through the build and couldn’t be happier. Thanks for the informative vid. Good luck with your search 😁
Excellent Video Greg Thank you, and very well explained. Now 57 I was looking upgrade and invest in a more forever van. But the prices/mileage are just mad. So I decided to buy new, or nearly new through Vanways. Nearly new vans turned out to be more expensive than new! So i put a deposit down on a brand new Peugeot Boxer with an estimated lead time of six months. This gave me time to look around and think about where best to use my money. I've now decided to buy a motorhome! But i love self build vans and its amazing community so i'm hoping i can find another project later in the year. Looking forward to seeing you at camp quirky Greg Best wishes Nigel
I spent a year looking for something suitable at a sensible price. I went shopping abroad instead and am now importing a vehicle from Dubai and hope to convert it for half what the same build would cost in Europe
My little work van got written off in a non-fault accident. and I got paid out from insurance 80% more than what I paid for it 4 years ago. But I purchased an already converted van. Just a day van Renault Trafic swb, non pop top. and spent well over the top mainly as didn't have much choice to wait as had no vehicle.
Sorry about the accident but good to hear the insurance paying the current value 👍🏼😃
@@GregVirgoe well, that wasn't easy.. quite a task.. 🤣
Thanks for sharing this information
Have you built any vans with triple bunk beds and a double with shower or would you have a rough idea how I'd go about it? We are a family of 5. We are short 5'5 the tallest. Many thanks
I bought my first van with 150k miles for $1500. Never had an issue. My most recent van I was driving, the transmission went out. My family talked me into selling it and buying a new one so I did but I didn't realize the shortage was so bad. I cant tell you how much of a catastrophic decision that was for me. 3 months later I'm still homeless and vans like my first van are now worth $9.5K. What a horrible horrible time to be alive.
In the 80's i bought a mercedes 508 from the scrapheap for 3500 bucks and i had to weld some new sheet metal here and there
and then painted it and it was good as new again, because technicaly seen they are waaaaaay over enginered and last forever,
so i didn't had to do anything to get it past the mot.
in 2001 i bought a sprinter 312 and payed 9k for it and had it for 17 years and spend at least twice that money in repairs and maintenance.
I even restored it to brandnew including the engine and everything, but after 3 weeks it got stolen. Now i have 2011 316 automatic,
and it's again a bottomless money pit because it's nothing but trouble.
Everything made to 1990 was great and everything afterwards just stinks.
Good advice for buying a van you said fiat ducato van is the more reliable I would of thought the Mercedes sprinter would be more reliable to me I’m waiting myself to get a van I’m torn between sprinter or Ducatto myself
4. People at home because of lockdowns, taking on a DIY project to keep busy, building a camper for local holidays because they can't/afraid to holiday overseas. Also, because of this situation there is a shortage of camper components - I've had to think of different things to use in my build, because I couldn't get the items I needed.
Hi gregg, about 12 months ago I had a job interview at a mercedes van dealer, they said they had 1500 brand new vans in there compound, that were all sold and waiting collection!
Hallo Greg, feel your pain. I placed a comment when your Merc was near completion a while ago and when you were travelling through Portugal. I said then I was planning my own van conversion. It never happened , ( diagnosed with cancer and career not allowing the time). Given the all clear just a few months ago and back working so I bought a Swift 4 berth motorhome on a fiat ducato .35,000 miles at trade price £24,800. All new ones this year at NEC Show £ 10,000 dearer , which has increased the value of mine over 20 per cent. They currently for sale where ever I look around £ 33/÷= thousand. Its ridiculous . Keep searching Greg and you will find.
I’m pleased to hear you got the all clear. Wish you happy travels 😊
Greg, long-time follower here, your videos were invaluable during my own build last year. I just wondered whether you had looked at vehicle auctions. I bought a car last week at a trade & finance vehicle auction (open to public) and saw a few vans going for a bit less than I expected, certainly much better value than the examples you've given here. VAT occasionally payable (not always) and there's an auctioneer's fee but it still works out. After all, this is where a lot of the forecourts buy their own vehicles. The auction I attended was Wilson's in Newport, South Wales, but I'm willing to bet there's something closer to home for you. I would seriously consider it.
Yes I have a couple of friends looking at auctions but van prices are also 80% more than normal.
Slightly cheaper and maybe more choice at this time......... however......... remember......... its strictly sold as seen from an auction, absolutely no come back / recourse at all with either the seller or auction house. You need to be V knowledgeable / experienced.
Good info as ever well presented
Thank you. Top end as always.
You’re welcome 😊