I agree with you. If I were buying a new trailer, I would definitely go with aluminum. I would also go with an open trailer simply because it is more versatile for me. I have an old steel trailer that needs a new wooden bet now and it pretty beat up in general but I'll probably put a bet in it and keep it. I seldom use it. When I need a better trailer, once or twice a year for just a few hours, I rent an aluminum from Tractor Supply. I pay less than $20.00 for 4 hours and that's about all I need it. Then I don't have to worry about upkeep or a place to park it while it sits here most of the time. I understand your situation is different but it works great for me.