If it's run of the mill junk, sure it's hard to sell, but if it is near new, like new with the box prewar & postwar still commands a high price. I only buy excellent++ to near new for my collection.
Good for you but I get enjoyment of finding reasonably priced engines that I can clean and lube to run on my layout. Obviously we are talking about two different markets. After I left the Pgh. Greensberg show a few weeks ago I wasn't under the impression that the market had bottomed out. saw a lot of pricey engines, cars and accessories for sale.
I consider my trains to be in one of two categories: stuff I collect, and stuff that I run & tinker.
I like the stuff that I collect to be in the best condition as possible, but I don't always require a box. Modern era stuff has to be truly mint, as in never run.
The stuff I run & tinker can be in any condition.
Prices: there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that prices are much softer these days. That is not to say that trains are dead. From what I see, other than common rolling stock (Postwar and Modern), most items still fetch a good buck. (But less than they once did).
The prices of some early Modern era stuff are rising (not the instant collectables).
As far as asking prices at Greenberg, here, EBay and elsewhere: folks can ask anything they like. Some folks sit on their stuff for years and years, sometimes even dragging their goods from show to show. It's the sales that count.
I would be quite pleased to make a private party purchase of the set described above. The offer would depend on the condition of the trains.
