His asking price, even if it seems reasonable, may be a "starting" price--when you arrange to look at the instrument, ask if he is negotiable--also, remember that prices are always based on what the supply and demand is where you are, factored in with the seller's need to sell--The prices in the Eastern US and Canada may vary drastically from Alaska and the Western US --the more you know about asking and selling prices in your area and in Denver and West Coast cities(where, I know, many Alaskans shop), the better it will work out for you--