1966 Volkswagen Bus/Vanagon

Well, it's difficult to review a classic Volkswagen bus without first listing my expectations based on the seller's description. For example,I have learned that the descrptive terminology can be far more revealing than I previously realized.
A "daily driver", for instance; seems to be a vehicle which has had very little restoration or maintenance work done to it. It may, in fact be driven daily,but this is like saying a house has "rustic charm". In other words, it's a "fixer upper".
This particular 1966 Transporter was described as having no oil leaks, a working sound system, and no rust. None of the above were true.
It had leaks at the engine (which was covered on the underside with a layer of oil, but not dripping; so maybe that's why the "no leak" description was offered. If it doesn't hit the ground I guess it's not a "leak"....).
The stereo was a cassette based model, screwed into the parcel tray and hanging by plumber's tape beneath it. There were speakers that I discovered under the back seat later; but they were not connected and when were connected barely put out any sound.
The reduction gear box on the passenger side also was leaking lubricant significantly.
The bus DID in fact drive well, all the way up the California coast from LA to Santa Cruz.
I found out after bringing the bus to my local mechanic that most of the front suspension and linkages were shot and have now embarked on a restoration of these items. BUT, I will be deferring the work over time , as these are all issues which were not disclosed prior to my purchase, thus being a complete surprise.
This is the second VW bus I bought on Ebay without an inspection before buying, and I have learned my lessson.
The frst was a 1969 which required about $2000.00 in repairs to be even roadworthy from a safety consideration.
SO, although I expected a restoration "project", I did not anticipate the discomfort or cost associated with trusting ONLY the seller's information before making a purchase.
In summary, I would not call this a "horror story"; but would INSIST that anyone buying a classic or used car order a thorough INDEPENDENT inspection before handing over the money. I admit that I used "buy it now" to acquire this bus, and in doing so, expected more than what I got for my money. This was my "dream car", and will not achive that status without a significant investment of time and money.
It seems that a paint job is all that's required to fool alot of people, myself included.
When and if I ever sell this bus, I would at least have the integrity to be up front about the condition.
Oh, and as a buyer; be willing to walk away, there are alot of cars out there in better condition for less money.
Significantly disappointend,
CH