JustineHH, thanks for mentioning the off-gasing thing. That's something I hadn't thought of. I've only spent time in older RVs, but I'm sure it's an issue for those who are environmentally sensitive. I wonder if there has been any move in the industry to incorporate less toxic materials, as is the case in the home building industry. Hmmmm.
Joanj, the interesting thing about HGTV is that it shows how trends vary from one part of the country to another. There are also differences re what appeals to US, Canadian, and UK audiences. On the pro RV side: I know of several people who have purchased lots in "ghost towns" i.e., former mining and logging towns and set up RVs on them each season. Since the sites all have sewer, water and electrical hook-up already in place (from when a company-town house sat on the property), putting an RV on the lot can create a pretty economical vacation property. I think Niho was the name of the company selling the lots, most of which are in BC, if I recall. In Quebec and Eastern Ontario, there are several "camp grounds" where people set up RVs as their summer "cottage" - most return to the same site each year - some even have seasonal gardens set up around their vehicles complete with garden gnomes! So I can see that the idea of parking an RV for the season has appeal. Personally, if I had a house on wheels, I'd like to get some mileage out of it. Let us know if you decide to take the plunge - and send a report from your first trip!