Hi Greg,

I am in the market for a westy. I am not considering anything but a
pop-top (or other raised roofs).
A non pop-top is, to me and many other vey limiting.
To me, the only not to have a pop top is: limited camping (not long
term), and you use the van only for sleeping: i.e you spend most of the
time outside the van, seating, cooking, etc.
Also remember you can only sleep 2 people in a non pop-top.

Unless you are quite small, you wont be able to stand up in the van.
that's ok for a week-end.
A side tent will be a plus then.

Resale value will be affected.

On the other side, if it's too cold, the open pop-top is not a god idea.
so you may end-up in the same situation.

It,s also sad to make a van mechanically sound and discover that must
must have pop-topped  it later. some people did it, but it's not
recommanded.

JP