What would you pay? 2004 Express 1500 AWD Penthouse

[dirtmerch]

I found a smoking deal but it has since turned into a bidding war due to a shady seller. Still seems like a good deal but I'm a bit uncertain since it will be sight unseen and half way across the country. What would you pay?

2004 Chevy Express 1500 AWD with a Penthouse. 2 passenger captains chairs, the rest is bare cargo. Barns doors on both sides. 120k miles, 2 owners, excellent interior condition, some rust on the runners.

[KDB]

I dont have much experience with the Express platform but the 1500 might be a bit to light to do a full build out. Are your intentions to keep it on the lighter side or go for a full interior? Id think about 20K would be a fair deal for both parties. What's the ask?

[BrianW]

Every AWD Express I’ve seen has had a good bit of rust. They sell well in snow states for a reason.

[dirtmerch]

I'm not going to post the price just yet, but its currently 40% over the seller's original asking price.

I believe the 1500 weight capacity will be fine for my needs.

It has the larger 5.3L v8 engine.

[Grampswrx]

I’d say $20k would be fair without seeing it. The top will be $10k stand alone. The van is probably worth $12k with the awd. Maybe less since it’s a cargo. Remove the hassle of having to get the top put on.

If it’s ghetto, $13-15k. If it’s real nice, just over $20k

[BrianW]

A lot of very good threads on the AWD GM vans over at Expedition Forum. Including people who have upgraded the 1500s’ weight ratings using other GM parts (Suburbans mostly, I think). Check over there if you haven’t already.