I am astounded about what some people are asking for used trains. But as I often watch listings on the auction site, they are not selling at those prices and after several months get discounted.
In the meantime, I have still been finding bargains on items I am looking for. Like always it just takes work. I just picked up three baggage cars (Lionel and K-line) for a M&E train and the total price not including taxes and shipping was $125.00. No complaints from me for scale length cars in good used condition. There is one bargain out there I am sorely tempted on, but I have overspent my budget for the month.
Since we live in a market economy, a seller can ask whatever price they like for an item. We can also chose to pay it or not.