>>1035774>>10357774x4 vans are rare to find - especially the smaller ones. they don't take lifting much easier but do haul ass for what /out/ wants/needs so i approve trying to find one.
truck frame SUVs are quite common but you're right about the bad condition that always plagues them. parts are cheaper and easier to find and they're easier to drive since they're optimised for driver and not cargo.
around Ontario (onterrible), you can find decent (mechanical condition, not aesthetically) 4runners, xterras, explorers, tahoes etc for under $5k.
Or you could just go with the /ORG/ meme of the Land Cruiser or Chevy Suburban / Ford Expedition.