Some random thoughts having just caught up with the thread:
You're right to sell the Vario. IMV self-build has to be done for its own sake, as a hobby, for relaxation and satisfaction, and not something undertaken simply because you need the end result.
Don't part with Ela. You will regret it and your dogs are a big part of what you want to do.
Buy a motorhome that is very near what you want then alter it to make it exactly what you want. If you have, or can source, the skills needed for a self-build then a few mods to a near-perfect motorhome will be a doddle.
Buy one with Alde heating. It is the simplest and easiest to maintain set-up and kit is available to run it from the engine cooling system when travelling. A cheap Eberspacher engine heater (around 5kW output as standard) will operate the system from Diesel. Mine is size of a sandwich box and fits under the vehicle.
The smallest log burner will output far too much heat in a motorhome only surpassed by the amount of filth it generates.
Your immediate goal should be to get back on the road ASAP. This will resolve issues with your Mum and give you peace of mind. Spend money on achieving power self-sufficiency. Apart from the obvious solar & decent batteries add a small generator for now 'cos they're cheap and easily resold. Maybe replaced by a fuel cell long term.
Work: you sound as though delivery driving is something you enjoy/don't mind. Zero hours driving work sounds good for an itinerant with dogs to look after.
Compromise on a bigger van with the facilities & room you need rather than a small one that will go to more places. It will be your home for long periods. You can explore on a bike or scooter.
Feel free to ignore the musings of an armchair traveller
.
You're right to sell the Vario. IMV self-build has to be done for its own sake, as a hobby, for relaxation and satisfaction, and not something undertaken simply because you need the end result.
Don't part with Ela. You will regret it and your dogs are a big part of what you want to do.
Buy a motorhome that is very near what you want then alter it to make it exactly what you want. If you have, or can source, the skills needed for a self-build then a few mods to a near-perfect motorhome will be a doddle.
Buy one with Alde heating. It is the simplest and easiest to maintain set-up and kit is available to run it from the engine cooling system when travelling. A cheap Eberspacher engine heater (around 5kW output as standard) will operate the system from Diesel. Mine is size of a sandwich box and fits under the vehicle.
The smallest log burner will output far too much heat in a motorhome only surpassed by the amount of filth it generates.
Your immediate goal should be to get back on the road ASAP. This will resolve issues with your Mum and give you peace of mind. Spend money on achieving power self-sufficiency. Apart from the obvious solar & decent batteries add a small generator for now 'cos they're cheap and easily resold. Maybe replaced by a fuel cell long term.
Work: you sound as though delivery driving is something you enjoy/don't mind. Zero hours driving work sounds good for an itinerant with dogs to look after.
Compromise on a bigger van with the facilities & room you need rather than a small one that will go to more places. It will be your home for long periods. You can explore on a bike or scooter.
Feel free to ignore the musings of an armchair traveller
.
