Hi, first post so please be gentle.
I am a trad part time window cleaner (4 hours per day) and have built up a lovely round over the past 5 years.
I have used an N reg Escort van until now, but after just scraping through its MOT, it is now on its last legs.
It looks fairly smart on the outside (white and sign-written etc) but underneath its a different story.
So I need a new vehicle, but also my wife who drives our 2001 406 diesel estate car says that within 18 months or so she wants something a bit smaller and less 'old fartish'.
Anyway, can you help with my decision.... choices seem to be;
1) Buy a 4-5 yr old Escort van from a dealer (£3500 ish all in) then look to trade the 406 in for a new car for her in 18 mths. Would buy a car for around £6k, might get £2k if I'm lucky for the 406. Total spend £3500 now, £4k in 18 mths = £7500
2) I inherit the 406 now for work (get some magnetic door signs) and buy her a new car immediately. Total spend £6k
I understand the need for the professional image that a van gives, but the 406 would save me money and give me a much better drive. I am not looking to expand the business much now, so apart from a few quotes for new jobs here and there my customers are already happy with me, regardless of what I drive.
I would take the safer option of buying from a dealer, as I don't want the potential hassle of going private.
So, for those of you who are still awake after my rambling, what should I do?
Cheers