I think Greg is a bit of a genius. His videos were recommended to me by a work colleague and I've addictively binge watched them. A fantastic bench mark for any DIY van conversion. Inspiring and enthralling.
I thought that when I was editing it. "How cani make this more inetresting?" :D I wonder if anyone is going to sit and watch me readout my figures for half an hour? But thankfully you have :D Cheers
You are such a gent, with a kind heart, not many like you out there. Your build is first class and done for your comfort, so you don't need to justify the materials used. May you have many enjoyable years in her, well done, brilliant video's.
Uncle Greg has taught me more in his series about valuable skills and traits within one month than my 1st year in uni. I am forever grateful and hope I can one day begin my own build.
Greg, I really must thank you for the brilliant meticulous way you have gone about your Van build. As someone contemplating a build myself your videos are easy to follow, full of ideas and easy to listen to. I realise you may recoup some of your investment through these videos but I certainly think you’ve earned it. Thanks again and we’ll done to you and yours.
That’s an amazing price for what you’ve achieved and shared with so many. My bare van alone was just under your your total price and I’ve spent another £20k self converting it. At the end of the day these are very personal projects and a chance to create something unique. And in my case they never seem to end! Just adding air suspension and Wi-Fi.Thanks for taking us along for the ride Greg and safe travels.
The sky is the limit as to what you can spend. We certainly spent more than planned but have been living in it full time now for over 4 yrs so when you compare that to the cost of running a home it’s actually a huge saving. 👍🏼😃
I just want to thank you for the incredible detail of your van build videos. I'm now building out my own van, and if mine can be even half as good as yours I'll be very pleased! I do have a sinking feeling that my original budget was, like yours, well below reality. By the way, your furniture panels are absolutely brilliant, and were well worth it. Your build looks like it came out of the factory! Thanks again for documenting everything so well. I've learned SO much from your hard work, and I'm very grateful.
That’s very kind of you to say so. Although it was expensive the furniture board does look amazing and it’s extremely good quality. Cuts very cleanly which makes it easier to get a good finish.
Been waiting for this video Greg! Mercedes Sprinter van £6,600 Appliances and materials £15,000 Experience of building your dream camper van PRICELESS! Well done!
I couldn't agree more. iMax $28000... At a guess conversion $13000... Lots of research... Many 'debates'... Humbling mistakes... Much fun... Looking forward to seeing Australia now...
The van conversion is a delight and your knowledge and willing to share all your research and how-to videos with us is more than generous. Thanks Greg.
for the end product .. that is a bargain , as Greg said for a ' pro ' coachbuild you would shell out at least double ( and because he build it himself , he will have an idea where to start faultfinding any issues )
I have never in my life given a comment on a video but i really take my heat off to you Mr. Vigroe. Your calm demeanour and detailed explanation really help to make a leap of faith into free and more meaningful way of life without winning a lottery. Sincerely, Ivan
Hello Ivan, I’m honoured that you have broke silence on my channel. Thank you. I hope the videos give you the tools to build a more fulfilling life for yourself 🥳
Just as I thought: Greg and Lou kept meticulous detail on the cost of the build. Incredible (and incredibly useful). Greg, you're being exceedingly modest. I'd stand your roughly £22,000/$27,600 build up against upfitters' conversions of £80,000/$100,000! This is precisely the reason I chose a 2011 Ford E-350 cutaway with 12' Supreme Iner-City box (FRP) as the platform for my self-conversion. The cost for my truck with 75,000 miles on the odometer was $14,500. An additional consideration for my truck was that it was fleet maintained, so it's in excellent condition. As added bonuses, the truck came with a 1,000W pure sine wave inverter (though a larger inverter is needed to run the induction cooktop, etc.), and is equipped with a 1,600 lb. lift gate that functions as a back porch. All tolled, my build budget is $11,000. As I already possess every tool needed, purchase materials wholesale and am doing 100% of the work myself, I'm confident in this figure. Included in this budget are lithium batteries (24V/120A/3kWh), urine diverting composting toilet, recirculating indoor shower, lift bed, undermount tanks from large diameter PVC pipe and ultra-filtration water system, all of my design and construction. These alone save me at least $7,000! So, in the end, while a non-traditional RV, I'd stand mine up to anything available commercially at $100,000+. All for $25,000. Due to modular construction techniques, everything in the box is removable. This restores the truck to a utilitarian cargo carrier while affording reuse of the components in future builds. My plan is that this maximizes the available market for the truck when it's time to upgrade to a newer chassis. Of course, completely removing the box, with all it's contents, and installing it on a newer chassis is also an option. This could also prove extremely useful in the event that the truck chassis is damaged beyond repair in a collision (God forbid!).
I just returned from NEC disheartened by the quality of finishes and robustness of many of the vans have started to look at self builds, I think I’ve hit gold with your channel👍👍
Hi Greg, For the quality & spec that you have achieved you have done amazing for that overall spend, all I can say if your were in the business of van conversions, I'll be first to buy one from you even with you labour costs added (and so would many others) top job 👍
Thanks Greg, it's really helpful to see a breakdown of the costs, I wish other builds would share this level of detail too. The breakdown will help others decide on where to follow suit and where to perhaps go for lower cost options. Your van is top quality, better than most factory builds. I have seen a few videos of whats under the skin of some factory builds, such as insulation and wiring and some definitely cut corners on what's not seen, you built in quality right the way through.
I really appreciate that. I’m really keen to design and build a van on a minimal budget. I think I could still turn out a good standard of build but use reclaimed and recycled products throughout. Eco build 🤩🚌
Hi Greg, well done. I must admit I did smile a little when you mentioned the possible cost of the sprinter and the conversion. Your honesty and thorough cost breakdown is a wow factor, but it really does give one the idea of cost which is what one really needs at the outset. Especially if one has no idea of the full reality. So thanks for all your diligent accountancy.
Greg I watch all your videos because you are thorough in all you do. We are alike because on my last roof conversion of my house I itemised every cost, so at the end of the day, you just like you, I knew how much it cost me. Well done to you.
Greg, you are a legend! Thank you for sharing all your work, insights and research. The dropbox list of parts is also massively helpful too, along with all the other resources you've shared. You are Lou seem super lovely and I wish you all the best adventures.
Without doubt the best self build I have seen, your attention to detail during the build was unsurpassed compared to others; that said each to their own and all manage to fit out to suit their needs. I am one of those with not a clue and purchased a van conversion already done, but from a small quality company Murvi in Devon; certainly not cheap but great quality and gives me peace of mind when using it. Just shows if you have the skills and time you get a quality van conversion and the satisfaction of having done it all yourself. Congratulations
Hello Greg and thank you for your detailed van conversion serious. It helps me a lot in my van build. You are number one youtuber in my list when it comes to van build. Hope to finish my van in August. Thank you for your job - very well done.
Greg you are amazing! The detail contained within your build is second to none. We’ve missed your vlogs so good to hear from you. Keep them coming Greg. Take care.👍🐶🐾😀
Thanks again Greg for another very informative video! Without your channel we doubt we would have taken on the challenge of our self build.. Your videos made the difference! A huge thank you once again! 😀👌🏽👏🏽
Your videos are GOLD ❤❤❤ Thank you for doing them, I'm just about to start my conversion and I feel so much more confident after watching your videos! You're a star!
Been waiting for this Vlog, I did exactly the same thing as you two. We calculated a £7500 build and it turned out to be £14000. Thats without the things we wanted to make the outside look cool like meaty tyres etc. loved the Vlog. Hope your both good. Hope to see you at Quirky !!.
I found it amusing the disparity between your original and resultant budgets but fact is your van is stunning and your engineers expertise showed through on every step of the build. Vantastic 👍
You know what mate. You are so genuine and bang on the money. You can do a van build from reclaimed materials that cost ZERO or you can do a van build and many many thousands later your thinking Fxxx. Almost completed our latest build and I've gone soooooo far over what I told my wife our budget would be that I am now saying, it's because you wanted this and that. Gotta blame someone for being 7k over budget lol. Our build will be on YT very soon please drop by
Great Job! Greg, I want to thank you for the many detailed videos of your van build, The references, places of purchase etc,etc. Your wife also has knowledge and skill of van building. Seeing glimpses of her assisting and your detail videos has given me confidence to give van building a try. Once I find a decent 6m high top van, I will like to do a van build. I’ve been looking at the Murivi,; Vanguard and Dexter panel-van layout. You are so correct regarding the cost of the ready built panel-vans they are so expensive, The purpose of having a panel-van or Motorhome is to enjoy traveling at your leisure, a person should not go into debt to buy a pre-built panel-van.
Absolutely brilliant honest down to earth video,this should be a must see video for anyone contemplating the self build journey,thanks for taking the time to make and publish it,stay safe guys.
Ours came in just short of £16k. We saved quite a lot by going for painted ply rather than the furniture board but still spent the money on decent kit. Even high end motorhomes and professional van builds seem to cut corners on those bits.
*cries in 2022 prices* I spent more on my empty shell than you did for your whole build. I can only hope it turns out half as nice. Thanks for all the videos Greg!
What about the swivel seat and the telly hahaha, we love you Greg, I build my van to and I love to show her to you ,if you coming down the South coast to Teignmouth you gonna be my guest, I got an Italian restaurant to, come to see me
I found it very helpful to keep a spreadsheet as I built mine I had a good figure to give the insurance company for value, and a list of modifications for the DVLA to re-register it.
I've seen a few self build vlogs on YT now, and watched a few of your own, and it all seems very encouraging and very appealing tbh, being able to up-sticks and go where you want in a home from home kind of way, but having the space to build a van up is something else, which sadly where I am renting isn't possible, so I've been looking at the price of second hand camper vans recently and you are correct they are stupidly expensive, the cheapest I've found was about £30k, so I think you have a bit of a bargain there, built to your spec, from what I've seen your workmanship is second to none, perhaps you should set up building vans for others, with no time or place to do their own,, maybe a lot of work I know, but perhaps ultimately rewarding. Safe travels to you both.
For me personally my van was a way for me to take early retirement I do plan to build another van to sell but it’s not something I would turn into a business. Why don’t you look at using a converter to fit out your own van that would be cheaper. Here’s a list of them www.quirkycampers.com/uk/quirky-van-conversions/
Greg just come across your channel after weeks of watching RUclips videos on self builds. You are the real deal and I'm now persuaded to join the club of self build. Thanks again,Ben 😉
Greg....I hate you lol 😂 your comments, build your van to suit your own needs in regard to your budget? Can’t imagine building anything less spec, however, my budget is about £12000 total. I’m confused, you mention that your build is your permanent home, yet you seem to have excellent facilities to complete the build? Did you sell up and consider the van as your permanent home? We’re thinking of selling up and commiting to that ideology, am I reading you right? Cheers, Ben, .
Ben Moffat we got rid of our house in July 2018. The workshop is Lous parents garage not my workshop. We finished the build (controls and garage doors) on my mums driveway before living in the van full time which we have done for two years now. 😃
Wow it's been a pleasure to follow you throughout the 2 years of building your van, Keep the series going when not in lockdown as I want to see the adventures you now have in your new home, Take care be safe 👍😎
@@GregVirgoe Yes I've been watching most if not all your videos from the build to trips in Europe, well documented and very informative information, keep them coming 👍😎
Thanks Greg for all your videos, I have just completed my van build and I must say I borrowed quite a lot of your ideas lol. I agree you put all this effort into building a van why cut corners on quality totally the best van build series on RUclips thanks again
thanks for answering my question about fans, this is a super video I really took a lot from it, especially liked that you didn't use lots of loud graphics music or special effect just the facts well presented in a calm clear style - I really like it - thank you! will be watching more subsribing etc
I have for a long time now had a figure in my head and was only £242.00 out. I actually thought the van cost more but the fit out a little less. You put a lot of work into you van Greg, manufacturers couldn't do it better 👍
Hi Greg, I think you are my first subscription ever, I do follow yourself every video and the content is superb ,in detail and also information to where you get the products, you have done some job . I follow just a few in Ali and Trent, Amon and Bec Nate and the couple in Panama which I think is Nomadic movement. That said we as potential or realistic van lifers are a community and it’s great to share, I am on my third van build now but not to good with all the recording stuff, I’ve previously bought a mini bus but small and converted that and my last one was a patient transport ambulance. All insulated and windows in place.10 months ago I bought a 2015 transit and I am currently working on it. Put windows in and wired it myself following good tutorials on RUclips. Another month and I will be on the road. I’m a Scottish guy and cycle and fish for salmon, just now iTs a weekender but want to full time lol. Got 4 bikes and about 50 fishing rods as I fish for all species, need to down scale but I love your content, honest open and transparent..... that means it it what it is, you are credit to van lifers by giving free information and help out to like minded people and I for one will maybe ask you a specific question for help and assistance in the future. My trade is fabrication and welding and if ever you need a wee hand in that field just send a message. Top man and well done,let’s all stay safe buddy. Kind regards Angus
Angus Macarthur I’m honoured to have you as a subscriber. I too follow all those guys you mention. Metal fabrication and welding is something I really want to get into and learn. Having the opportunity to be taught would be fantastic. Hopefully one day. Best wishes and take care.
Amazing honesty Greg , good job you could take it on the chin , I was looking wanted a low mileage 70k van lab merc and fit out looking around 20k It’s the little bits , alarm , immobiliser, tracker , roof vents , insurance , solar, bed and elevated mattress👍👍👍
Yes I know but most are delivery and get sold when snufscturers warranty has ended so that puts the mileage on 100k us at least so might go for accident damaged hi top lwb merc
Brilliant build and end product, everything bespoke costs money and it works for you both perfect so well worth it, my build was a compromise on cost and build but again it works for me so perfect, well done
Super video Greg and what a fantastic finished product. A real credit to your handcrafting and organising skills. There are really not too many out there that could deliver this - I know for sure I couldn't and I'm reasonably handy. Now time to enjoy😊
Brian McClure I have seen many other viewers vans that I would be proud to call my own. The same guys I’m sure will say they had no prior experience but have turned our incredible looking vans. It’s a lot of work but the rewards are fantastic.
For just shy of 22K, I think you’ve done very well Greg, good job. I wonder how much it would’ve cost to have had a conversion company do the work for you? 🤔 at least double?
After having a '74 VW bus and living in it in 1990, it's time for me to get on the road again. I'm pretty useless with my hands, but I'll definitely be giving some of it a go. Your videos are amazing and they've inspired me. Looking at vans now. Thanks for the inspiration and the amazing attention to detail :)
Do you regret not making a recirculating shower, instead of your regular shower? I've seen some people install those (look for a genius setup by Curt from Snow & Curt channel) and it feels like an absolute must-have, now that I know how it works. You save on water weight + can take proper unlimited showers. Check out Curt's recirculating shower setup + walk through shower "room" + automated tilted solar roof using 12v linear actuators. They are all absolutely genius. He even has an AC running off his solar + Li-ion battery setup. He pretty much got everything one would want from a house (on wheels or not). Now my ideal setup is pretty much everything from Snow & Curt channel, but with the finish, style & quality of Greg Virgoe's build. That would make for the best van on the planet.
@@GregVirgoe Thanks for replying! Do you mind if I ask why? A combo of solid 3-step charcoal filter + a UV filter will make your recirculating shower water cleaner, than what most people have coming out of their regular house tap. I agree, it sounds kinda gross, until you realise that it's no different to taking a bath. Accept for when taking a bath, the water literally stays the same, while in a recirculating shower it's getting cleaned & sanitised constantly. And as far as water availability, I am not sure how it is all over Europe, but when I spent months travelling USA, sometimes it was really hard to find water sources, much less good ones (other than buying jugs of it from Walmarts, which is not sustainable & creates unnecessary waste). So it would have been nice to have a way to cut down on the amount of necessary water. And recirculating shower just sounds like a really good way of doing it, without sacrificing on comfort. Because what ended up happening is that drinkable water was always a priority, when you are in remote areas, where water sources are scarce, so shower had to be sacrificed, which is not very nice. With a separate shower tank & a water tank, that wouldn't have been a problem.
The Credible Hulk why not? For these reasons. Capital cost Ongoing filter cost Electric load for UV filter Reduced water flow rate Ongoing maintenance. In two years of living full time in the van we’ve washed every single day and never had a situation where we went without water, ever. 🤔👍🏼
This was a real eye-opener. I haven't costed anything yet, so this was good to see. Like you my first thought was quite a low figure, going to have to re-evaluate that now. Thank you for this, informative as ever.
Obviously I did t cut any corners and some stuff can be done a lot cheaper like furniture board and appliances etc. ours was replacing our home so we wanted the best we could make out of it. 👍🏼😊
G'day Greg. Thanks for sharing the financials for the conversion you undertook, very detailed. While we have a caravan not a motorhome I still understand the items you mentioned as they are similar in a caravan. You have inspired me to watch your fit-out series which I will now do. Thanks again mate, from us in Oz kmdc.
Always enjoyed watching your channel from the build to your trips - but this one was one that I got the most useful information, I have been looking to do my own build in the not to distant future and often wondered what a realistic cost would be Thanks for the update- Stay safe😁
Amazing how things can mount up, we bought our LWB Sprinter 2014 80k £9,000 and the build cost is at just about at completion at £6,000 so total cost is £15k. People like you and many others have saved me thousands, I owe you a beer. 💙♥️💙♥️💙♥️💙💙♥️💙♥️💙♥️💙
what a legend , i took a lot of advice and my vans great , your the best guy on the internet by an asses roar , keep them comming ,love the channel, Tommy in Ireland
Fantastic conversion Greg, I was expecting a lot lagrer amount :) I really appreciate that I've put in so much effort to detail everything. I hope your mobile home has no copyright ;) because it looks like perfect project for me to build and for my needs. I hope you enjoying full time living in your own build
Thank you - this is the rest of the information needed to make a rational decision on jumping into such a major project. I agree with the advantage of doing your own. I'm not sure what the manufactures are thinking, but I much prefer your design and space utilization.
Fantastic work Greg, probably the best quality self build van I’ve seen. Guess you had cabinet making skills already? Out of interest - how many hours do you think you’ve spent? Keep up the great work! And you should sell the plans for the cabinets (or kits!)
No previous practical skills at all. I come from a design and management background. All self taught from watching Norm (new Yankee workshop) Jay Bates, Matthias Wandell, Izzy Swan, Rob Cosman, Kyle Toth, Justin Pender to name just a few of my favs
Hi Gregg I have been watching your videos on the Sprinter and have to say you have given me the drive I need to get going. Your videos are fantastic and very detailed im really impressed .Once again thanks for the videos they are truly amazing.
I honestly thought you spent a lot more. Well done, you've set the standard for how a build should be done. I'm coming to the end of my own van fit out. My budget was a lot smaller then your's but I reference many things off your video and you helped me a lot. I'm also an engineer (Mechanical) and I really enjoyed your how technically discriptive your videos are. Hope you have many more years of enjoyment with your van. Many thanks, Charlie.
I read it all. It only took half an hour! Thanks for all your honesty and very accurate cost keeping. I did a similar conversion as you were doing yours and found your advice and experience really valuable. My total cost came to just under £15000 on a Renault Master ex disability vehicle with 18K on the clock (£8800). But my end result is way below yours in terms of quality of finish. I don't have your skills or tools. Having previously had a Merc sprinter van conversion I do worry about rust problems ahead for you. Perhaps you are comfortable in being able to deal with that.
Yes! Your total build cost is about right. A full time winterised van for cold/hot climate (off grid) you sure find out what you need once you live in it. You sure are right about hole cutters. Living in a van is like building a home in permanent earthquake zone!❤
Greg, that was absolutely brilliant. I am honestly really grateful you taken time out and been absolutely thorough on keeping the information ready. It would great if you let your followers know as know you have experience. What would you do differently if you started a fresh. If I had you knowledge and skills for example I would have bought a new van. Actually the Nissan NV400 long wheel base and high roof. The reason the quality you put in would have ended up around 40k. But the van would have 5 years warranty. A life long investment. Once again thank you very much. Stay safe
In reality it’s about 5k more than where I wanted it to be but it was all a huge learning curve I know there are areas there where we could have saved money.
@@GregVirgoe I'm going to struggle to get anywhere near you costs. Germany seems so much more expensive and prices have gone up. What your video and the budget exercise have done is show me why commercial campers are so expensive. No wonder even old clapped out vans are 20K here.
Greg the van build is a credit to you , I could spend twice that and it still would'nt come close to your van but enjoyed all the videos of you building it take care both of you all the best.
The electrics could be simpler. No control panel and cut out most of the 230v sockets. Cushions would be much cheaper. Slightly smaller solar and battery and now they are cheaper to buy anyway. Cheaper fridge. Only one fan and a skylight. Cheaper sink and bowl set. Insulation I could halve that cost just sticking with Diall all round. I could shave a few grand off our cost sheet in many areas. 😊👍🏼
I think Greg is a bit of a genius. His videos were recommended to me by a work colleague and I've addictively binge watched them. A fantastic bench mark for any DIY van conversion. Inspiring and enthralling.
Thanks for fantastic feedback.
The craftsmanship, time and thought gone into that van is priceless.
my thoughts exactly..he must be proud as punch.i know i would be.
@@arthurconrod9825 no
I just watched you spend 27 minutes reading out a spreadsheet and was enthralled the entire time. Why can't work budget meetings be as entertaining?
I thought that when I was editing it. "How cani make this more inetresting?" :D
I wonder if anyone is going to sit and watch me readout my figures for half an hour?
But thankfully you have :D Cheers
You are such a gent, with a kind heart, not many like you out there. Your build is first class and done for your comfort, so you don't need to justify the materials used. May you have many enjoyable years in her, well done, brilliant video's.
Wow, thank you! That really does make my day to read your kind words. Best wishes 😊
Uncle Greg has taught me more in his series about valuable skills and traits within one month than my 1st year in uni. I am forever grateful and hope I can one day begin my own build.
Greg, I really must thank you for the brilliant meticulous way you have gone about your Van build. As someone contemplating a build myself your videos are easy to follow, full of ideas and easy to listen to. I realise you may recoup some of your investment through these videos but I certainly think you’ve earned it. Thanks again and we’ll done to you and yours.
I hope that the videos do give you some helpful tips when you come to do your own build. Thank you for watching 🤩
That’s an amazing price for what you’ve achieved and shared with so many. My bare van alone was just under your your total price and I’ve spent another £20k self converting it. At the end of the day these are very personal projects and a chance to create something unique. And in my case they never seem to end! Just adding air suspension and Wi-Fi.Thanks for taking us along for the ride Greg and safe travels.
The sky is the limit as to what you can spend. We certainly spent more than planned but have been living in it full time now for over 4 yrs so when you compare that to the cost of running a home it’s actually a huge saving. 👍🏼😃
I just want to thank you for the incredible detail of your van build videos. I'm now building out my own van, and if mine can be even half as good as yours I'll be very pleased! I do have a sinking feeling that my original budget was, like yours, well below reality. By the way, your furniture panels are absolutely brilliant, and were well worth it. Your build looks like it came out of the factory! Thanks again for documenting everything so well. I've learned SO much from your hard work, and I'm very grateful.
That’s very kind of you to say so. Although it was expensive the furniture board does look amazing and it’s extremely good quality. Cuts very cleanly which makes it easier to get a good finish.
Very useful thank you.
Thank you to my friend Max for recommending your videos too.
I’m glad you are enjoying the videos. 👍🏼🤩
£22k and your workmanship has produced an absolutely brilliant van. Well done! Your videos are well produced, informative and honest.
Thank you Chris. Much appreciated
Been waiting for this video Greg!
Mercedes Sprinter van £6,600
Appliances and materials £15,000
Experience of building your dream camper van
PRICELESS!
Well done!
I couldn't agree more.
iMax $28000...
At a guess conversion $13000...
Lots of research...
Many 'debates'...
Humbling mistakes...
Much fun...
Looking forward to seeing Australia now...
The van conversion is a delight and your knowledge and willing to share all your research and how-to videos with us is more than generous. Thanks Greg.
If it helps others achieve the enjoyment we have it’s so worth it. Thanks for following us. 😃
for the end product .. that is a bargain , as Greg said for a ' pro ' coachbuild you would shell out at least double ( and because he build it himself , he will have an idea where to start faultfinding any issues )
That’s very true. I know every screw in the van and how to use it to it’s best ability too. 😃👍🏼
Best van build series I’ve seen. Van is a credit to yous. Excellent level of finish, really impressed.
That really does mean a lot to me thank you 🙏🏼😃
I have never in my life given a comment on a video but i really take my heat off to you Mr. Vigroe. Your calm demeanour and detailed explanation really help to make a leap of faith into free and more meaningful way of life without winning a lottery. Sincerely, Ivan
Hello Ivan, I’m honoured that you have broke silence on my channel. Thank you.
I hope the videos give you the tools to build a more fulfilling life for yourself 🥳
Hats off to you Greg , you made a great home, and don’t forget the labour , top job👍
If I factored that into the cost would treble I think 🤔🤣
Greg Virgoe But it only took half an hour, didn’t it?? Hehe!
Diana even I have that tee shirt 👍
Just as I thought: Greg and Lou kept meticulous detail on the cost of the build. Incredible (and incredibly useful).
Greg, you're being exceedingly modest. I'd stand your roughly £22,000/$27,600 build up against upfitters' conversions of £80,000/$100,000!
This is precisely the reason I chose a 2011 Ford E-350 cutaway with 12' Supreme Iner-City box (FRP) as the platform for my self-conversion. The cost for my truck with 75,000 miles on the odometer was $14,500. An additional consideration for my truck was that it was fleet maintained, so it's in excellent condition. As added bonuses, the truck came with a 1,000W pure sine wave inverter (though a larger inverter is needed to run the induction cooktop, etc.), and is equipped with a 1,600 lb. lift gate that functions as a back porch.
All tolled, my build budget is $11,000. As I already possess every tool needed, purchase materials wholesale and am doing 100% of the work myself, I'm confident in this figure. Included in this budget are lithium batteries (24V/120A/3kWh), urine diverting composting toilet, recirculating indoor shower, lift bed, undermount tanks from large diameter PVC pipe and ultra-filtration water system, all of my design and construction. These alone save me at least $7,000!
So, in the end, while a non-traditional RV, I'd stand mine up to anything available commercially at $100,000+. All for $25,000.
Due to modular construction techniques, everything in the box is removable. This restores the truck to a utilitarian cargo carrier while affording reuse of the components in future builds. My plan is that this maximizes the available market for the truck when it's time to upgrade to a newer chassis. Of course, completely removing the box, with all it's contents, and installing it on a newer chassis is also an option. This could also prove extremely useful in the event that the truck chassis is damaged beyond repair in a collision (God forbid!).
By far the best series of how to do a campervan conversion on RUclips, the detail you go into is brilliant. Thanks so much for sharing.
The best van conversion on RUclips!! Worth every penny. I'm embarrassed to say my van stands me in about £1200 with a build budget of £3000 🙄 lol
I just returned from NEC disheartened by the quality of finishes and robustness of many of the vans have started to look at self builds, I think I’ve hit gold with your channel👍👍
Absolutely à fantastic build....... This is like a production someone could find on a TV programme... Brilliant... 📺👍👏
That’s very kind of you many thanks 😊
Excellent resource for the self build camper van person, thank you for your generosity in sharing this.
Hi Greg, For the quality & spec that you have achieved you have done amazing for that overall spend, all I can say if your were in the business of van conversions, I'll be first to buy one from you even with you labour costs added (and so would many others) top job 👍
honest and realistic summary of true costings,not to mention the top shopfitting skills that went into it,well done.
Thanks Greg, it's really helpful to see a breakdown of the costs, I wish other builds would share this level of detail too. The breakdown will help others decide on where to follow suit and where to perhaps go for lower cost options. Your van is top quality, better than most factory builds. I have seen a few videos of whats under the skin of some factory builds, such as insulation and wiring and some definitely cut corners on what's not seen, you built in quality right the way through.
I really appreciate that. I’m really keen to design and build a van on a minimal budget. I think I could still turn out a good standard of build but use reclaimed and recycled products throughout. Eco build 🤩🚌
Hi Greg, well done. I must admit I did smile a little when you mentioned the possible cost of the sprinter and the conversion. Your honesty and thorough cost breakdown is a wow factor, but it really does give one the idea of cost which is what one really needs at the outset. Especially if one has no idea of the full reality. So thanks for all your diligent accountancy.
A superb account of how everything comes together. Your channel really is an awesome resource.
Cheers Dan, much appreciated
Just how organised are you ! 😊. Fabulous
Greg I watch all your videos because you are thorough in all you do. We are alike because on my last roof conversion of my house I itemised every cost, so at the end of the day, you just like you, I knew how much it cost me. Well done to you.
It’s good to keep a record too for insurance or selling later on 👍🏼😃
A very comprehensive build cost video. And you know all of the jobs are done properly. 💙❤💙❤💙❤
Yes indeed every screw and nut accounted for 👍🏼😊
Greg, you are a legend! Thank you for sharing all your work, insights and research. The dropbox list of parts is also massively helpful too, along with all the other resources you've shared. You are Lou seem super lovely and I wish you all the best adventures.
Thank you very much Doug. Im pleased it is helping you. Thanks for watching. 😃
Without doubt the best self build I have seen, your attention to detail during the build was unsurpassed compared to others; that said each to their own and all manage to fit out to suit their needs. I am one of those with not a clue and purchased a van conversion already done, but from a small quality company Murvi in Devon; certainly not cheap but great quality and gives me peace of mind when using it. Just shows if you have the skills and time you get a quality van conversion and the satisfaction of having done it all yourself. Congratulations
Thank you very much. At least you are able to enjoy yours straight away 😃
Hello Greg and thank you for your detailed van conversion serious. It helps me a lot in my van build. You are number one youtuber in my list when it comes to van build. Hope to finish my van in August. Thank you for your job - very well done.
What a great van build series. I watched everyone from start to finish. Very professionally done Greg. 😎😎
Calmly explaining the build was a winner for me a very watchable guy, in one word inspirational thanks for all the help 👌🏻🇬🇧
Greg you are amazing! The detail contained within your build is second to none. We’ve missed your vlogs so good to hear from you. Keep them coming Greg. Take care.👍🐶🐾😀
Thanks again Greg for another very informative video! Without your channel we doubt we would have taken on the challenge of our self build.. Your videos made the difference! A huge thank you once again! 😀👌🏽👏🏽
Your videos are GOLD ❤❤❤ Thank you for doing them, I'm just about to start my conversion and I feel so much more confident after watching your videos! You're a star!
Been waiting for this Vlog, I did exactly the same thing as you two. We calculated a £7500 build and it turned out to be £14000. Thats without the things we wanted to make the outside look cool like meaty tyres etc. loved the Vlog. Hope your both good. Hope to see you at Quirky !!.
We are staying in the UK now this year under the circumstances. If quirky goes ahead we will be there. Please come say hi
I budgeted my 7.5 tonner at £18k and it came out at £20.5k
Twenty years back but, it can be done.
I found it amusing the disparity between your original and resultant budgets but fact is your van is stunning and your engineers expertise showed through on every step of the build. Vantastic 👍
You know what mate. You are so genuine and bang on the money. You can do a van build from reclaimed materials that cost ZERO or you can do a van build and many many thousands later your thinking Fxxx. Almost completed our latest build and I've gone soooooo far over what I told my wife our budget would be that I am now saying, it's because you wanted this and that. Gotta blame someone for being 7k over budget lol. Our build will be on YT very soon please drop by
Great Job! Greg, I want to thank you for the many detailed videos of your van build, The references, places of purchase etc,etc. Your wife also has knowledge and skill of van building. Seeing glimpses of her assisting and your detail videos has given me confidence to give van building a try.
Once I find a decent 6m high top van, I will like to do a van build. I’ve been looking at the Murivi,; Vanguard and Dexter panel-van layout.
You are so correct regarding the cost of the ready built panel-vans they are so expensive, The purpose of having a panel-van or Motorhome is to enjoy traveling at your leisure, a person should not go into debt to buy a pre-built panel-van.
Absolutely brilliant honest down to earth video,this should be a must see video for anyone contemplating the self build journey,thanks for taking the time to make and publish it,stay safe guys.
DIY Campervans And Variety thank you for great feedback 👍🏼😃
Greg Virgoe a well worthy video as always Greg 👍
Decent, honest cost video, nice one Greg! Ours was just short of 20k, it soon adds up!
camper vibe that makes me feel better and yes it’s all the little bits and bobs. 😬
Ours came in just short of £16k. We saved quite a lot by going for painted ply rather than the furniture board but still spent the money on decent kit. Even high end motorhomes and professional van builds seem to cut corners on those bits.
I think you’ve done a brilliant job building the van. It worked out cheaper than I expected, it’s a very professional looking conversion.
Allan Macdonald I’m surprised how many have said similar things 👍🏼😃
Your van is the best build van I've ever seen. You are amazing!
Thank you very much 😊🤩
*cries in 2022 prices* I spent more on my empty shell than you did for your whole build. I can only hope it turns out half as nice. Thanks for all the videos Greg!
What about the swivel seat and the telly hahaha, we love you Greg, I build my van to and I love to show her to you ,if you coming down the South coast to Teignmouth you gonna be my guest, I got an Italian restaurant to, come to see me
Love your van and videos, the standard and quality of your build is amazing, you can see that you really enjoyed doing this!
Your channel is a wealth of information and I thank you for all the effort you have put into it. Fantastic conversion. Hats off.
I’m pleased you like it 👍🏼thanks for watching
I found it very helpful to keep a spreadsheet as I built mine I had a good figure to give the insurance company for value, and a list of modifications for the DVLA to re-register it.
Thanks for the budget breakdown. This has answered a lot of my questions
You are welcome. This was a top end build and you could save money in a few places I think.
I really found fantastic the way you explaining how you built your van step by step. I have a clear idea how I will built my. Well done!!!!!
I've seen a few self build vlogs on YT now, and watched a few of your own, and it all seems very encouraging and very appealing tbh, being able to up-sticks and go where you want in a home from home kind of way, but having the space to build a van up is something else, which sadly where I am renting isn't possible, so I've been looking at the price of second hand camper vans recently and you are correct they are stupidly expensive, the cheapest I've found was about £30k, so I think you have a bit of a bargain there, built to your spec, from what I've seen your workmanship is second to none, perhaps you should set up building vans for others, with no time or place to do their own,, maybe a lot of work I know, but perhaps ultimately rewarding.
Safe travels to you both.
For me personally my van was a way for me to take early retirement
I do plan to build another van to sell but it’s not something I would turn into a business. Why don’t you look at using a converter to fit out your own van that would be cheaper. Here’s a list of them www.quirkycampers.com/uk/quirky-van-conversions/
@@GregVirgoe Hi Greg, Thank you for your reply, I'll check into that 👍
Greg just come across your channel after weeks of watching RUclips videos on self builds. You are the real deal and I'm now persuaded to join the club of self build. Thanks again,Ben 😉
Ben Moffat what took you do long mate? 😂😃 glad you found us now 👍🏼
Love your tenacious commitment even with all your set backs 😉
Greg....I hate you lol 😂 your comments, build your van to suit your own needs in regard to your budget? Can’t imagine building anything less spec, however, my budget is about £12000 total. I’m confused, you mention that your build is your permanent home, yet you seem to have excellent facilities to complete the build? Did you sell up and consider the van as your permanent home? We’re thinking of selling up and commiting to that ideology, am I reading you right? Cheers, Ben,
.
Ben Moffat we got rid of our house in July 2018. The workshop is Lous parents garage not my workshop. We finished the build (controls and garage doors) on my mums driveway before living in the van full time which we have done for two years now. 😃
I have watched your conversion and I think you have done a fantastic job, and you should be very proud of yourself, job well done.
Thanks for your vids Greg I’ve been working on my day van for 14weeks I’ve finished it now your vids were superb thanks 😊
Ian Bird nice one ☝️ glad they helped you
Wow it's been a pleasure to follow you throughout the 2 years of building your van,
Keep the series going when not in lockdown as I want to see the adventures you now have in your new home,
Take care be safe 👍😎
Thanks, will do! There's lots more to come.
Have you watched our previous two trips into Europe?
@@GregVirgoe
Yes I've been watching most if not all your videos from the build to trips in Europe, well documented and very informative information, keep them coming 👍😎
Thanks Greg. Another brilliant, well informed and useful guide which is helping me no end through my van conversion. Cheers!
This video was made on my birthday.....It's a sign from the van life gods.
Thanks Greg for all your videos, I have just completed my van build and I must say I borrowed quite a lot of your ideas lol. I agree you put all this effort into building a van why cut corners on quality totally the best van build series on RUclips thanks again
Our plans for the van evolved as did our long term travel dreams. It turned out great and I’m very happy with it. 😃
thanks for answering my question about fans, this is a super video I really took a lot from it, especially liked that you didn't use lots of loud graphics music or special effect just the facts well presented in a calm clear style - I really like it - thank you! will be watching more subsribing etc
Thank you 🙏🏼 I appreciate your support 😃
I have for a long time now had a figure in my head and was only £242.00 out. I actually thought the van cost more but the fit out a little less.
You put a lot of work into you van Greg, manufacturers couldn't do it better 👍
Thank you very much. Great to get a true picture of what it really costs. Appreciate the time you take making your videos.
It’s worth it to get such great feedback. Thank you 😊
Finally we get to the juicy stuff 🤣keep being awesome Greg and Lou!
Hi Greg, I think you are my first subscription ever, I do follow yourself every video and the content is superb ,in detail and also information to where you get the products, you have done some job . I follow just a few in Ali and Trent, Amon and Bec Nate and the couple in Panama which I think is Nomadic movement. That said we as potential or realistic van lifers are a community and it’s great to share, I am on my third van build now but not to good with all the recording stuff, I’ve previously bought a mini bus but small and converted that and my last one was a patient transport ambulance. All insulated and windows in place.10 months ago I bought a 2015 transit and I am currently working on it. Put windows in and wired it myself following good tutorials on RUclips. Another month and I will be on the road. I’m a Scottish guy and cycle and fish for salmon, just now iTs a weekender but want to full time lol. Got 4 bikes and about 50 fishing rods as I fish for all species, need to down scale but I love your content, honest open and transparent..... that means it it what it is, you are credit to van lifers by giving free information and help out to like minded people and I for one will maybe ask you a specific question for help and assistance in the future. My trade is fabrication and welding and if ever you need a wee hand in that field just send a message. Top man and well done,let’s all stay safe buddy. Kind regards Angus
Angus Macarthur I’m honoured to have you as a subscriber. I too follow all those guys you mention.
Metal fabrication and welding is something I really want to get into and learn. Having the opportunity to be taught would be fantastic. Hopefully one day. Best wishes and take care.
Amazing honesty Greg , good job you could take it on the chin , I was looking wanted a low mileage 70k van lab merc and fit out looking around 20k
It’s the little bits , alarm , immobiliser, tracker , roof vents , insurance , solar, bed and elevated mattress👍👍👍
If you find a sprinter with a genuine sub 70k I will give you a medal...lol
Low mileage vans are like gold dust unless they are very young. Best of luck with your search 👍🏼😀
Yes I know but most are delivery and get sold when snufscturers warranty has ended so that puts the mileage on 100k us at least so might go for accident damaged hi top lwb merc
Brilliant build and end product, everything bespoke costs money and it works for you both perfect so well worth it, my build was a compromise on cost and build but again it works for me so perfect, well done
Exactly as I said it’s your own taste and style 😃
Super video Greg and what a fantastic finished product. A real credit to your handcrafting and organising skills. There are really not too many out there that could deliver this - I know for sure I couldn't and I'm reasonably handy. Now time to enjoy😊
Brian McClure I have seen many other viewers vans that I would be proud to call my own. The same guys I’m sure will say they had no prior experience but have turned our incredible looking vans. It’s a lot of work but the rewards are fantastic.
For just shy of 22K, I think you’ve done very well Greg, good job. I wonder how much it would’ve cost to have had a conversion company do the work for you? 🤔 at least double?
After having a '74 VW bus and living in it in 1990, it's time for me to get on the road again. I'm pretty useless with my hands, but I'll definitely be giving some of it a go. Your videos are amazing and they've inspired me. Looking at vans now. Thanks for the inspiration and the amazing attention to detail :)
Do you regret not making a recirculating shower, instead of your regular shower? I've seen some people install those (look for a genius setup by Curt from Snow & Curt channel) and it feels like an absolute must-have, now that I know how it works. You save on water weight + can take proper unlimited showers.
Check out Curt's recirculating shower setup + walk through shower "room" + automated tilted solar roof using 12v linear actuators. They are all absolutely genius. He even has an AC running off his solar + Li-ion battery setup. He pretty much got everything one would want from a house (on wheels or not).
Now my ideal setup is pretty much everything from Snow & Curt channel, but with the finish, style & quality of Greg Virgoe's build. That would make for the best van on the planet.
No not at all. The thought of that puts me off straight away. There’s no shortage of water it pretty easily available everywhere you go
@@GregVirgoe Thanks for replying! Do you mind if I ask why?
A combo of solid 3-step charcoal filter + a UV filter will make your recirculating shower water cleaner, than what most people have coming out of their regular house tap. I agree, it sounds kinda gross, until you realise that it's no different to taking a bath. Accept for when taking a bath, the water literally stays the same, while in a recirculating shower it's getting cleaned & sanitised constantly.
And as far as water availability, I am not sure how it is all over Europe, but when I spent months travelling USA, sometimes it was really hard to find water sources, much less good ones (other than buying jugs of it from Walmarts, which is not sustainable & creates unnecessary waste). So it would have been nice to have a way to cut down on the amount of necessary water. And recirculating shower just sounds like a really good way of doing it, without sacrificing on comfort. Because what ended up happening is that drinkable water was always a priority, when you are in remote areas, where water sources are scarce, so shower had to be sacrificed, which is not very nice. With a separate shower tank & a water tank, that wouldn't have been a problem.
The Credible Hulk why not?
For these reasons.
Capital cost
Ongoing filter cost
Electric load for UV filter
Reduced water flow rate
Ongoing maintenance.
In two years of living full time in the van we’ve washed every single day and never had a situation where we went without water, ever. 🤔👍🏼
This was a real eye-opener. I haven't costed anything yet, so this was good to see. Like you my first thought was quite a low figure, going to have to re-evaluate that now. Thank you for this, informative as ever.
Obviously I did t cut any corners and some stuff can be done a lot cheaper like furniture board and appliances etc. ours was replacing our home so we wanted the best we could make out of it. 👍🏼😊
@@GregVirgoe I'm looking to live full time in mine too. My biggest problem so far is finding somewhere to build it. I'm looking forward to it though.
G'day Greg. Thanks for sharing the financials for the conversion you undertook, very detailed. While we have a caravan not a motorhome I still understand the items you mentioned as they are similar in a caravan. You have inspired me to watch your fit-out series which I will now do. Thanks again mate, from us in Oz kmdc.
Ah thank you 😊 I hope you enjoy the videos. Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Can't tell you how helpful this video is... just about to start a 2019 Crafter conversion... on air ride.... Thanks for taking the time..🙏
Always enjoyed watching your channel from the build to your trips - but this one was one that I got the most useful information, I have been looking to do my own build in the not to distant future and often wondered what a realistic cost would be
Thanks for the update-
Stay safe😁
Did the costs shock you Doug hope it’s not put you off your plans 😊
Amazing how things can mount up, we bought our LWB Sprinter 2014 80k £9,000 and the build cost is at just about at completion at £6,000 so total cost is £15k. People like you and many others have saved me thousands, I owe you a beer. 💙♥️💙♥️💙♥️💙💙♥️💙♥️💙♥️💙
You done well with those figures. I’m happy that it has helped you mike. I’ve have an IPA please 🍻 cheers 😀
great helped a lot with simple stuff for me a novice thank you
I’m pleased it’s helped you 👍🏼😊
If you put labour on top of that that you done your self,thanks for your honesty ,and you explain things very good thank you
A smashing conversion, and you still have the tools for future use. Well done, great vlog.
Who knows there may be another build in the future.
Sorry mate I just went straight to the end 😂👍
Also guilty 🤣
ditto lol sorry
I watched the whole thing, clearly I'm a bigger fan hahaha ;)
Luke's Van Life! I went back to the start to rewatch so im just a cheating fan 😂
Lol that’s funny mate. Love it! 😃👍🏼
what a legend , i took a lot of advice and my vans great , your the best guy on the internet by an asses roar , keep them comming ,love the channel, Tommy in Ireland
Tommy Byrne that’s one I’ve never heard before 😃🤣 cheers 🍻 thanks for great feedback 👍🏼
Fantastic conversion Greg, I was expecting a lot lagrer amount :) I really appreciate that I've put in so much effort to detail everything. I hope your mobile home has no copyright ;) because it looks like perfect project for me to build and for my needs. I hope you enjoying full time living in your own build
Superb. Extremely thorough - well done fella!
👍
Thank you 🙏🏼
Thank you - this is the rest of the information needed to make a rational decision on jumping into such a major project. I agree with the advantage of doing your own. I'm not sure what the manufactures are thinking, but I much prefer your design and space utilization.
Fantastic video! You are a talented craftsman and even better teacher! Cheers!
Fantastic work Greg, probably the best quality self build van I’ve seen. Guess you had cabinet making skills already? Out of interest - how many hours do you think you’ve spent? Keep up the great work! And you should sell the plans for the cabinets (or kits!)
No previous practical skills at all. I come from a design and management background. All self taught from watching Norm (new Yankee workshop) Jay Bates, Matthias Wandell, Izzy Swan, Rob Cosman, Kyle Toth, Justin Pender to name just a few of my favs
My goodness I hope my wife never sees this video!!
Sorry Jay, it’s costly to keep the other half happy 😃
He's a handsome chap Jay but I'm sure he's happy with his current missus :)
Hi Gregg I have been watching your videos on the Sprinter and have to say you have given me the drive I need to get going. Your videos are fantastic and very detailed im really impressed .Once again thanks for the videos they are truly amazing.
Excellent video. Clear & comprehensive. Now subscribed
Thank you 🙏🏼😊
I honestly thought you spent a lot more. Well done, you've set the standard for how a build should be done. I'm coming to the end of my own van fit out. My budget was a lot smaller then your's but I reference many things off your video and you helped me a lot. I'm also an engineer (Mechanical) and I really enjoyed your how technically discriptive your videos are. Hope you have many more years of enjoyment with your van. Many thanks, Charlie.
I read it all. It only took half an hour! Thanks for all your honesty and very accurate cost keeping.
I did a similar conversion as you were doing yours and found your advice and experience really valuable. My total cost came to just under £15000 on a Renault Master ex disability vehicle with 18K on the clock (£8800). But my end result is way below yours in terms of quality of finish. I don't have your skills or tools. Having previously had a Merc sprinter van conversion I do worry about rust problems ahead for you. Perhaps you are comfortable in being able to deal with that.
Very informative as usual. I am currently starting to working on my own van, and I appreciate all the tips and tricks you provided.
Thanks for the support and best luck with your own build. 👍🏼😃
Yes! Your total build cost is about right. A full time winterised van for cold/hot climate (off grid) you sure find out what you need once you live in it. You sure are right about hole cutters. Living in a van is like building a home in permanent earthquake zone!❤
Greg, that was absolutely brilliant. I am honestly really grateful you taken time out and been absolutely thorough on keeping the information ready. It would great if you let your followers know as know you have experience. What would you do differently if you started a fresh. If I had you knowledge and skills for example I would have bought a new van. Actually the Nissan NV400 long wheel base and high roof. The reason the quality you put in would have ended up around 40k. But the van would have 5 years warranty. A life long investment. Once again thank you very much. Stay safe
I would like to do another build putting all my experience into making one more economical yet just as functional.
Just been detailing s budget for myself. Was horrified where I was likely to end up with total cost. Great to have your confirmation, thanks.
In reality it’s about 5k more than where I wanted it to be but it was all a huge learning curve I know there are areas there where we could have saved money.
@@GregVirgoe I'm going to struggle to get anywhere near you costs. Germany seems so much more expensive and prices have gone up.
What your video and the budget exercise have done is show me why commercial campers are so expensive. No wonder even old clapped out vans are 20K here.
Greg the van build is a credit to you , I could spend twice that and it still would'nt come close to your van but enjoyed all the videos of you building it take care both of you all the best.
Another great presentation, very meticulous. If you rebuild a new van where would you cut costs?
The electrics could be simpler. No control panel and cut out most of the 230v sockets. Cushions would be much cheaper. Slightly smaller solar and battery and now they are cheaper to buy anyway. Cheaper fridge. Only one fan and a skylight. Cheaper sink and bowl set.
Insulation I could halve that cost just sticking with Diall all round. I could shave a few grand off our cost sheet in many areas. 😊👍🏼
@@GregVirgoe Thanks for the nice reply. Hope to see you starting a new project soon.
That is awesome. Your van is amazing as is the workmanship. Great job!!!!!
What a lovely comment. Thank you Linda 😊
Well deserved.....curious if you were diligent in keeping track of labor hours?
Can’t thank U enough Greg. U master by far camper conversions