Sharon,

I would say that's a tad high in price for a second hand although they do fetch a good price generally..

Take a look at Mandolin Cafe's classified ads for a wide range of different mandolins at different prices. There may be someone near you. There is a new Holoubek F5 there for $3750.

Also consider what you will use the mandolin for. "F" styles and "F-hole" A models are usually chosen for bluegrass whereas "celtic" and classical players usually opt for a round or oval hole "A" style. There is a definite difference in the tone and even more so between an archtop (like the Holoubek) and a flattop. The latter are generally a little cheaper.

RS