1. Do NOT show up to see an Airstream unprepared.

You wouldn't buy a house without knowing a little something about the area in which you were looking or as the very least have a realtor guiding you, so don't show up to look at an Airstream without knowing a little bit about that year and model. For instance, prior to 1973, there are no gray water tanks in Airstreams. The water goes down the drain and right out on the ground. This could be a huge logistical pain in the ass since every state and national park, as well as every RV park does not allow the dumping of gray water on the ground. You will need to carry around an external waste container, fabricate a space for a gray water tank or remove the water system all-together. Do your research, know what you're showing up to buy.

2. Check comps for price comparisons before you arrive.

This is a difficult point that takes time to really master. Ideally, as your experience level grows, you will begin to have a general idea of how much it costs to repair every specific system, handle, pipe in the Airstream. Check websites like Craigslist or AirstreamClassifieds in order to see what other people have listed their comps for. Take your time, do your research, and know what the general value of a 100% working Airstream would cost and once the 'issues' have been identified, deduct from said cost.

3. Do NOT be afraid to ask questions.

At several showings I've been to, there seems to be two types of people trying to sell you their Airstream. You have the knowledgable owner, and you have the ignorant owner. The knowledgable owner has a clear understanding of their rig and how to operate everything in and on it. These are the sellers that you can really dive in and ask the pertinent questions regarding the state of the Airstream. On the other hand, the ignorant owner seems to have little to no knowledge of the Airstream and selling it for their eg. grandfather, brother, cousin. These can be legit sales, but be careful to verify the title as best as you can and negotiate harder. Even if the owner does not know the answer, ask if they can show you the major systems while you are there. Even better, ask them to have this ready for you when you arrive. Under no circumstance should you buy an Airstream without checking the water, LP and electrical system.

4. Check for rear frame sagging.

This is a quick, yet vitally important point. If you step on the rear bumper and it bends away from the shell, walk away. Vintage, rear-bath Airstreams are notorious for rear-frame separation. The tanks in RB (rear-bath) models sit directly under the bath and over time can bend and weaken the frame. Unless you are willing to undergo a huge frame restoration, just do yourself a favor and avoid these.

5. Check the Exterior.

This is the easiest aspect of the Airstream to assess so take your time and do it right. While not universally true, an upkept exterior usually means an upkept interior.

Shell: With any aluminum product several decades old, there will be a level of oxidation that has occurred. This does not structurally compromise the shell but can be a sore sight if it's bad. If you feel like stripping and polishing an airstream, BE PREPARED FOR HELL. While not an overly complicated task, it takes a large amount of time. It is estimated that a 30' Airstream will take 200 work hours to complete. If you are of significant means, you can pay someone else to do it roughly for $100-150/linear foot of trailer. For those budget renovators, that can be a nasty chunk of your budget. With that said, a polished Airstream can put a premium on your re-sale price. While dings, dents or bruises can be removed from a vintage Airstream shell, know that it isn't an overly complicated process, but requires tools many of us do not possess. A few dings do not deter me from a purchase, in fact, it adds to the allure, in many ways, of a vintage trailer. On the other hand, a major ding I can see in a picture will deter me from even seeing it in person.

Windows: Next, check the windows. After countless miles on backroads, highways and byways, rocks have a tendency to wreck havoc on the front windows. Again, while completely a fixable situation, window repairs come at a high cost financially or through labor. My advice, avoid Airstreams with window damage.

Doors/Compartments: Make sure you check the main door to ensure it opens and closes appropriately. If you are looking at an Airstream with a missing compartment door, they can be readily purchased online for a nice premium, but ensure the hinges/track is in good condition.