My first advice would be to make sure to save a good chunk of that 15k
for the unexpected problems that will arise after the purchase.  Don't
let anyone make assurances to you that a van is in such perfect
mechanical condition that nothing could go wrong.  (If they are talking
like that, ask what kind of warranty they are offering?)  Keep in mind
you're buying a vehicle that is 20 years old.

As far as looking, I would watch thesamba, ebay, and maybe even
autotrader.com, and don't buy anything you haven't examined yourself.

Good advice that has been repeated here often: don't buy a van from 1000
miles away and plan on driving it home.  You want to get it shipped back.

Finally, I would advise you to be very patient.  The best deals and
opportunities are unlikely to be the first ones you look at.  I would
spend a month only WATCHING ads and prices (this includes going to look
at some of the vans).  Then, after this warm-up period, buy the next van
that is a significantly better value to you than all of the ones you've
already seen.

Michael Morris wrote:
> I live in San Francisco and am finally pursuing my goal of buying a Westy. I want to get one with relatively low mileage and in excellent mechanical and body condiition. This is more important to me than price. I can spend up to 15k. Can someone recommned where I should look? Better to buy from a dealer or private party? Anybody familiar with reputable sellers in Bay Area?
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