I don't really set a ceiling but do keep my eyes open for deals on what I want. If I am buying high end I prefer clean or unique aspects within a good brand. I am ok paying fair market on something I really want that appears it will hold value, or if limited (not obscure) and sought after. I don't plan on or think about selling anything at this point, but I do try and make good decisions, and a good decision for me is not always the good price of something I am not all in for. Having what I want can carry more value to me than buying a bike cheap that I can sell for more. I see work for making money, bikes as a hobby. If things go right value will go up, but even if stable or some loss I would be happy as I am getting enjoyment and entertainment from them.

Regarding value, I like working on bikes as downtime, but if I compared time (as money) into some of these mid/lower end bikes vs. what I paid for a high end bike that is clean..... I already lost money on the mid/lower bike in many cases.