These generators often sell as is on GL for $350-$500 (of course there are also rare occasions that they go higher), and I would would say most that are sold on the open market by individuals on craigslist, ebay, etc. end up selling for under about $1,000, those with asking prices higher than $1,000 tend to be slower to move, although will likely sell sooner or later. The problem with selling on ebay is at almost 300 pounds shipping becomes a problem, which generally limits sales to your local area. Major storms can drive up prices on generators even if they are far away, as much of the demand for generators is based on perception. Regional issues also count against you some as you are too far south for major winter weather events, and too far inland to get the hurricane preppers. Having said all that considering you are in the DFW metroplex and Texans don't mind driving a ways to pick up stuff, you may have even with a higher than average asking price.
Ike
p.s. one nice thing about these MEP-016D generators is they will jump start off a 12V battery even though they have a 24V starter. Note there is no electrical charging system
