I paid 11,500 for my 1996 xb03 last year, boat not motor. I think it was a fair price, it is in very good condition. It came with a Tandom Axle trailer which I value at 1500.00 upgrade on the used market. I paid $8000.00 for a Short shaft 260 that was fresh. I then spent another 4 to 5K rigging, and shipping. I have since paid very close attension to the prices that have been advertised and I still feel that I would be hard pressed to get a rig of that pedigree, on my doorstep ready to run for less than 23K. I also think your 280 is a rare motor, and the right guy should be willing to pay upwards of 25K total package. I live in Vancouver Washington and bought the boat in Illinois, and the motor in Wisconsin. I had never driven an Allison before but did have bass boat experience. I had wanted and Allison for 15 years and read everything I could find. They should be respected, and I think your concern about selling one to someone who is maybe careless, is valid. I think you will be able to tell if the guy you sell it to is the type to go out and be careless. They don't make XB03 anymore, show me a bass boat that is capable of triple digits, for less than 30K. Ya, and xb02, but some barely consider an 03 a tournment boat.