Where to buy a cheap but conversion able van?

[uncagingmyspirit]

Step #1 in the whole process is finding the cargo van. I will have a very small amount saved - between 1100 &amp; 1700. &nbsp;Where is the best area (city/state) or place (ebay, auctions ect) to buy a cargo van? I have no problem with traveling out of state for a cargo van if it the engine is in good shape and the body isn't all rust and mold for a low amount. But I do prefer within 100 or so miles of Los Angeles. <br><br>Ideally I want a longer cargo van with rear doors (side doors are optional for me). Decent engine that at that cost will obviously need some repairs but is running. Something I can convert into a camper.&nbsp;<br><br>What are the top things to beware?<br>What kind of critical errors do some sellers try to hide?<br><br>I will get the VIN before even looking at the van though.&nbsp;

 

[Willy]

&nbsp;Craigslist. ..Willy.

 

[coultergeist]

I agree that craigslist is a good place to check.&nbsp; That's where I found mine.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.govdeals.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.govdeals.com</a> is a great resource too, especially if you're looking for a former work van.&nbsp; They do auctions for government owned items.&nbsp; There are always many vans up for auction.&nbsp; They sell in all states.&nbsp; Just search for the state or states you're interested in.&nbsp; Prices can be really low for older vehicles.&nbsp; Just be mindful it is an auction site and that it is always wise to inspect the vehicle first if possible.&nbsp; Not everything makes it into the description.&nbsp; Having said that, I have gotten some great deals there in the past.&nbsp; I use to live in the Midwest.&nbsp; The Thrifty Nickel was a paper we got out there.&nbsp; I'm not sure if they're in your area, but they cover most of the west and Midwest.&nbsp; You can search their website too.&nbsp; They have older vehicles at great prices lots of the time too.&nbsp; Might be worth checking out.

 

[uncagingmyspirit]

Thank you for the link&nbsp;coultergeist. I'm going to check it out next. I have searched CL in different cities and states with mixed results. Plus CL is known for scams so I'm weary. I've been to one auction and they spoke faster than I do...that's fast. &nbsp;But will definitely give it another try.&nbsp;

 

[DollarJoe67]

I found my van on craigslist.&nbsp; I learned a lesson about pics on the internet.&nbsp; Almost everything is digital and digital pics make everything look better.&nbsp; I traveled 200+ miles to check out vans and was unsettled by the true condition.&nbsp; I'm not saying the sellers were intentionally misrepresenting, but pics can be deceiving.&nbsp; Just want to give you a heads up on that.&nbsp; I met the seller of my current van halfway to buy it.&nbsp; If you do reply to Craigslist, set up a free and unimportant e-mail address.&nbsp; What I have also discovered is that many Craigslist users are phishing for e-mail addresses to SPAM.&nbsp; Don't reply to any ad on Craigslist which instructs you to e-mail a specific address.&nbsp; They are spammers and scammers.&nbsp; If you can't reply using the CL system, the ad isn't legit.&nbsp; So, heads up on that too.&nbsp; One more thing.&nbsp; If a deal sounds too good to be true, IT IS.<br><br>I also sell stuff on Craigslist and this is my overall experience.&nbsp;

 

[Willy]

&nbsp;As a general rule, I'd agree but.. I've picked up some INSANE deals on CL. My laptop, near new at the time and going for abt. $3000, for $650. From a student and it wasn't stolen.With my current rig, '92 F-250 extended cab 4x4 w. near new tires, towing package (w. electric brake controller and front/rear HD hitch receivers), for $1300 after taxes. Just gotta be in the right place at the right time. ..Willy.

 

[setiani]

I agree with&nbsp;coultergeist...&nbsp;<img src="/images/boards/smilies/thumb.gif" class="emoticon bbc_img">