Right off the bat - - what we (each of us reading this) are willing to pay for vinyl is a personal matter. I've got real "what a STEAL" items in my collection, and plenty of "I'll never admit to anyone what I paid for this" items as well.
As friends of new wave, I hope we all agree we shouldn't ostrasize (sp??) each other for the ridiculous $$ we've laid out for this sick passion we have.
(I should also admit I've NEVER bought an lp on-line. Everything is strictly walking into a used vinyl shop. I'm not an elitist; it's just that I remember that 'record-store' thrill of my youth and going in and finding it is what motivates me. If the hunt's too easy, I lose interst - -and probably too much money, as well).
ANYwaY...
I think our style of music almost stands alone in that you NEVER know what the price will be when you find that gem that's eluded you for months/years. Someone mentioned finding the Trees lp for $2. I might find it for $20 and not be surprised (and pay it if I've looked unsuccessfully long enough)...
How many times have you paid $10 + bucks (even higher) for something you've NEVER seen, only to find it in a $1 bin months later? Recently for me it was Stiv Bators 'Disconnected'.
I knot it all depends on the record-store owner...half of them probably have no idea who Stiv Bators is, anyway.
How much is too much for that copy of the Mekons debut you've never seen before but have always wanted?? I'm at a point now that if I find something I've wanted (or didn't realize I wanted) and I'll still be able to feed my family, I get it. I can't worry I'll find it cheaper later.
I do dwell on records I passed on and then never found again....