Step-by-Step DIY Van Conversion

Our DIY build. 
Please read our disclaimer (you know, the one that says we are not experts!)
Phase Three - Selecting and Buying the Van

  1. This is the step where the rubber meets the road.  (Get it? It's a van life pun. Vanlifers are filled with puns, you know.) Determine what type of van you want. What is the budget?  Will you cash pay or finance? Do you prefer older or newer? Year? Mileage? Make and model, for example:
    1. Sprinter
    2. Transit
    3. Dodge RAM Promaster
    4. Chevy passenger van
    5. SUV
  2. Would you prefer low, mid or high roof? Extended or not? Are you willing to travel out of the area for the purchase? (We did!) If yes, how far?
  3. Create a list of vans you find online: make, model, year, mileage, etc. so you will know if it’s a good deal when the time is right. See our list here.
  4. If financing, search around for the best deal and get pre-approved.
  5. Narrow search results and make contact with seller(s).  Keep in mind, vans could be selling fast and there may be no time to dilly-dally.
  6. Have a pre-purchase freak-out. (It's required.)
  7. Test drive and get inspections.
  8. Negotiate and close the deal.
  9. Celebrate and brag on social media! Woo hoo!!

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Kate & Mel