Funny to hear of your frustration because the same expirence pushed me to pull the trigger a couple years ago. I can only offer my expirence and hope it helps. I looked for years waiting to "find" the "perfect rig"...... it was always way to expensive or after I reconciled the cost benefit ratio it sold the day before i booked the flight. Then i realized the perfect rig was the one i could use. So my wife and I planned a trip and started looking for the best available rig. It turns out it was a $23,000 2x4 in chicago with low miles, one owner and it was stored in doors and loved. the Plan was alway a $x4 so that is what we did ...... Made the deal over the Phone, the rig was as expected and we flew out and drove her home. That was 4-28-13 and by July she was converted by Advanced 4X4, with Aluminess, lights wheels and tires we were in a beautiful rig that has been reliable and taken our family to beautiful places in style and comfort. Would I do another poptop v8 eb10 ? No I would not....... But with every trip I find my "perfect rig" ..... I will build a rig that is perfect for me ......but today we have fun in a rig we put together with about $55,000 and a date, These truck are never a good deal..... I have seen several since I have owned one that I would buy, but as I wait for the "perfect rig" I now truly understand its subjective and elusive. My advice is to buy what you can afford and use the shit out of it as you figure out what you really want and/or can afford. Good luck with your search and safe travels.