So basically I was cruising around the block and I saw a nice 2001 GS300 for ~7K. I fell in love with it instantly but sadly I already own a car. My car is a 2000 Lexus ES300 with basically a new engine installed with about ~5K. Don't get me wrong I love my ES300 but the GS300 just shot a arrow in my heart.

 

Trade-in to a dealer. Basically, they "take" your car and you "buy" theirs.

Best way: sell your car then negotiate for the best cash price on the GS or vice versa. You'll come out way ahead of a trade-in.

Wife had a 2000 ES300 for 8 years; bought as a CPO in 2002. Recently, she purchased a 2005 LS430 with 57,000 miles for $24k. Took about 4-5 weeks; but, sold the ES300 for $7,200.00, which we would never have gotten on a trade-in. Makes the price of the LS430 just under $17k------>a very good price.

 

^ amazing deal!

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you will get gouged for the ES300 - lol. These things are barely fetching anything greater than 5k... and those that do are under 50k miles and either a 2000-2001 with all the options/limited editions.

 

so whats price should I put my car at?

 

6g's since you got a new motor as you claim.

But you will get lowballed anyways, so take the closest offer to that.

But by all means, start at 7-8k if you wish and work your way down from that!

 

So I went to check the car again and it was gone I was depressed so I started to look for other cars on Craig and I found this at my location.

"Black 2001 Lexus IS 300. 121,000 miles. Fully loaded. Aftermarket Alpine CDA9886 CD/MP3 player installed with iPod connection, CompuStar security system with feedback remote start, tinted windows, newer tires & brakes. Well cared for vehicle, and amazingly fun to drive. Moving on to something newer, and this is a great vehicle which will last. $6500"

 

I feel your pain my friend.
I love my 2nd Gen ES too, especially all the crap I've modded it with over the years but recently it's reliability has come into question...
Recently I strolled into the delearship found a GS and it was over at that point.
Long story short, I paid a bunch of money, grabbed a loaded GS, and am still slowly working on the ES as it leaks oil all over the drive way...
Be patient, your 3rd Gen ES seems in far better shape especially with a new engine.
Take your time and you'll find the right buyer and the right car for you.
Good Luck!